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 made off with $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. All told, one in four Americans has been a victim of this crime at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still an issue, especially during the busy holiday season, but there’s no reason you have to be targeted. Explore how a layered plan and current smart home security can keep your deliveries secure in Indianapolis.

Layered security keeps Indianapolis package bandits away

Holidays are already a challenge with scheduling headaches, travel chaos, overtaxed budgets, and inlaws who test your nerves. The last thing you want is a stolen package to push you over the edge. So, how do you prevent it from happening? Adding a video doorbell is a solid idea, but there’s more to the puzzle of preventing package theft. 

A layered approach can include:

• Security cameras along your home’s border. Let thieves know they’re being watched.
• Security signs. It’s old-school but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A burst of light is often enough to scare criminals off. But don’t forget, porch theft occurs at all hours.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security devices you have in place. Neighbors should keep an eye out for each other and take note of questionable behavior. 

Modern technology improves your security

Home security keeps evolving. You can leverage these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Indianapolis home. Here are several worth installing:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way audio. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or ask why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart locks and home automation. Modern home security can be operated remotely. Open your garage, have a courier put deliveries inside, and then secure the entrance once they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. You can now find outdoor and doorbell cameras that activate a bright light or sounds if someone gets too close. 

Make good delivery choices

A layered approach and modern tech will help stop package theft, but you can also help yourself by picking optional delivery services. For instance:

• Demand a signature. This is a great choice, especially for higher value goods. Your orders will never be left unattended. 
• Give instructions. Tell drivers where you would like boxes placed and keep them hidden from view.
• Redirect packages. Send higher-value deliveries to somewhere else, like your place of work or a self-service storage locker. Carriers like Amazon offer secure lockers in Indianapolis where you can grab deliveries.

Prevent package theft in Indianapolis with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let stolen packages spoil your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your packages protected. You’ll appreciate having remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance devices that actively deter crime. Speak with delivery drivers or even unlock your door for delivery drop-offs, even when you’re not there. Place a call to (317) 978-5706 today to learn more and schedule your home security installation in Indianapolis.