Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is staggering. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves made off with $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. In all, around 25% of Americans have had a package pilfered at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a problem, especially during the busy holiday season, but you don't need to be a victim! Explore how a layered strategy and modern smart home technology can keep your parcels protected in Florence.

Layered security keeps Florence package thieves away

Holidays are stressful enough with packed calendars, travel delays, budgets stretched to the limit, and inlaws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you need is a pilfered package to push you over the edge. So, how can you stop it? Ordering a video doorbell is a smart first step, but there’s more to the puzzle of preventing porch theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Video cameras along your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know someone’s watching.
• Security signs. It’s old-school but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A burst of light is often enough to send prowlers running. But don’t forget, porch theft happens at all times of day.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not just about what devices you own. Neighbors can look out for one another and report questionable behavior. 

Modern tech improves your defense

Home security continues to evolve. You can leverage these advancements to stop porch theft at your Florence property. Here are a few worth installing:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way communication. Give instructions to delivery drivers or determine why someone’s at your door.
• Smart locks and custom automation. Today’s home security can be operated remotely. Unlock your front door, tell the courier put parcels inside, and then lock or close the entrance once they’re done. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You can now find exterior and doorbell cameras that turn on a bright light or audible alerts if a prowler comes too close. 

Make smart delivery choices

A layered defense and modern devices will help prevent package theft, but you can also help yourself by picking optional delivery services. For example:

• Require a signature. This is a wise choice, specifically for more expensive goods. Your orders will never be left sitting outside. 
• Provide instructions. Tell couriers where you would like boxes left and keep them out of sight.
• Change the delivery address. Send higher-dollar deliveries to somewhere else, like your place of work or a self-service storage locker. Companies like Amazon provide secure lockers in Florence where you can retrieve deliveries.

Stop package theft in Florence with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow stolen packages to spoil your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your packages safe. You’ll benefit from remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance devices that help stop crime before it happens. Speak with delivery drivers or even unlock your front door for package drop-offs, no matter where you are. Call (843) 438-7320 today to find out more and book your smart home installation in Florence.