Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are eye-opening. 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, one in four Americans has been a victim of package theft at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still a threat, particularly during the holidays, but you don't need to be a victim! Discover how a layered approach and the latest smart home technology can keep your packages secure in Cincinnati.

Layered protection keeps Cincinnati package bandits away

Holidays are already a challenge with in-laws who stay too long, stretched-out budgets, scheduling headaches, and travel nightmares. The last thing you need is a pilfered package to push you over the top. So, what can you do to stop it from happening? Installing a doorbell camera is a good idea, but there’s a lot more to preventing porch theft. 

A layered approach can include:

• Video cameras around your home’s border. Let prowlers know someone’s watching.
• Security signage. It’s simple but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A sudden burst of light is typically enough to frighten prowlers off. But keep in mind, porch theft commonly happens during daylight hours.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not only about the security devices you have. Neighbors can keep an eye out for each other and report questionable behavior. 

Current tech strengthens your protection

Home security keeps evolving. You can use these advancements to stop porch theft at your Cincinnati home. Here are a few worth considering:

• Video doorbells with two-way talk. Give delivery drivers instructions or ask why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart door locks and custom automation. Modern home security systems can be operated from wherever you are. Unlock your front door or open your garage, have a courier put deliveries inside, and then secure the entrance when they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. There are doorbell and outside cameras that activate warning lights or sounds if a prowler ventures too close. 

Make good delivery choices

A layered strategy and modern technology will help curtail package theft, but you can also help yourself by choosing optional delivery services. To illustrate:

• Request a signature. This is a smart choice, specifically for higher value goods. Your orders will never be left unattended. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Let drivers know where you would like packages dropped off and keep them hidden from view.
• Change the delivery address. Deliver more expensive deliveries to another location, like your workplace or a self-service storage locker. Carriers like Amazon offer secure lockers in Cincinnati where you can retrieve your orders.

Prevent package theft in Cincinnati with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let pilfered packages ruin your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your packages safe. You’ll appreciate having remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Talk to couriers or even unlock your door for delivery drop-offs, even when you’re not there. Place a call to (513) 506-9171 today to find out more and arrange your smart home installation in Cincinnati.