Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are stunning. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves made off with $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. All told, around 25% of Americans have had a package pilfered at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still an issue, especially during the holiday season, but there’s no reason you have to be targeted. Discover how a layered approach and current smart home security can keep your packages safe in Lexington.

A layered defense keeps Lexington porch pirates away

Holidays are already stressful enough with travel nightmares, scheduling headaches, overextended budgets, and in-laws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you want is a missing delivery to push you over the edge. So, how do you prevent it? Ordering a video doorbell is a solid first step, but there’s more to stopping porch pirates. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Video cameras covering your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know someone’s watching.
• Security signs. It’s old-school but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A flash of light is usually enough to send criminals away. Just remember, porch theft occurs at all times of day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security devices you have in place. Neighbors can keep an eye out for one another and flag questionable behavior. 

Modern tech improves your security

Home security is always evolving. You can leverage these advancements to stop porch theft at your Lexington property. Here are a few to consider:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way audio. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or find out why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart door locks and home automation. Modern home security systems can be controlled from wherever you are. Unlock your front door, tell the delivery person put parcels inside, and then lock or close the entrance once they’re done. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. There are exterior and doorbell cameras that trigger a bright light or sounds if a prowler gets too close. 

Make good delivery decisions

A layered defense and modern technology will help prevent package theft, but you can also help yourself by making smarter delivery decisions. For example:

• Require a signature. This is a wise choice, especially for higher value items. Your packages will never be left sitting outside. 
• Provide instructions. Let drivers know where you would like boxes left and keep them hidden from view.
• Change the delivery address. Ship more expensive deliveries to an alternate location, like your office or a self-service locker. Companies like Amazon offer secure lockers in Lexington where you can retrieve your orders.

Halt package theft in Lexington with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow pilfered packages to ruin your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your deliveries protected. You’ll enjoy remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance devices that proactively deter crime. Communicate with couriers or even unlock your door for package drop-offs, regardless of where you are. Call (859) 203-1366 today to find out more and book your smart home installation in Lexington.