Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is eye-opening. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves swiped $8.2 billion worth of online delivery orders in 2025. In all, around 25% of Americans have had a package stolen at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still a problem, particularly during the holiday season, but there’s no reason you need to be a victim. See how a layered strategy and current smart home security can keep your deliveries secure in Trenton.

Layered protection keeps Trenton package thieves away

Holidays are already a challenge with travel chaos, scheduling conflicts, overextended budgets, and in-laws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you want is a stolen package to push you over the top. So, how can you stop it taking place? Adding a video doorbell is a solid opening move, but there’s more to the puzzle of deterring package theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Security cameras covering your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know someone’s watching.
• Security signs. It’s old-school but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A sudden burst of light is often enough to frighten prowlers off. Just remember, porch theft happens at all times of day.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not just about what devices you have. Neighbors can keep an eye out for one another and report suspicious behavior. 

Today’s tech improves your protection

Home security continues to evolve. You can leverage these advancements to stop porch theft at your Trenton property. Consider these options:

• Video doorbells with two-way audio. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or determine why someone’s at your door.
• Smart door locks and custom automation. Modern home security systems can be managed from a distance. Unlock your front door or open your garage, have a delivery driver put deliveries inside, and then lock or close the entrance when they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. You’ll come across doorbell and outdoor cameras that activate a bright light or audible alerts if someone comes too close. 

Make good delivery choices

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

• Demand a signature. This is a wise choice, particularly for high-value goods. Your packages will never be left unattended. 
• Provide instructions. Let drivers know where you would like packages placed and keep them out of sight.
• Redirect packages. Send higher-value deliveries to somewhere else, like your place of work or a self-service storage locker. Carriers like Amazon have secure lockers in Trenton where you can pick up your packages.

Halt package theft in Trenton with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow pilfered packages to ruin your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your parcels safe. You’ll appreciate having remote access, custom home automation, and video cameras that proactively deter crime. Communicate with couriers or even open your garage for package drop-offs, no matter where you are. Contact (609) 928-8223 today to find out more and arrange your smart home installation in Trenton.