Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are eye-opening. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion worth of online orders in 2025. All told, approximately 25% of Americans have been a victim of package theft at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still a problem, particularly during the busy holiday season, but there’s no reason you have to be a victim. See how a layered plan and current smart home security can keep your packages secure in Eau Claire.

A layered defense keeps Eau Claire package thieves away

Holidays are already stressful enough with in-laws who overstay their welcome, stretched-out budgets, scheduling conflicts, and travel chaos. The last thing you need is a stolen package to send you over the top. So, how can you stop it? Ordering a video doorbell is a solid opening move, but there’s more to preventing porch theft. 

A layered approach can include:

• Security cameras around your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know they’re being recorded.
• Home security signs. It’s simple but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A sudden burst of light is typically enough to send prowlers running. But don’t forget, porch theft takes place at all hours.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not merely about what devices you have in place. Neighbors can watch out for each other and flag suspicious behavior. 

Today’s technology boosts your defense

Home security keeps evolving. You can take advantage of these advancements to help prevent porch theft at your Eau Claire home. Consider the following options:

• Video doorbells with two-way talk. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or ask why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart door locks and home automation. Modern home security can be managed remotely. Open your garage, let the delivery person put deliveries inside, and then close or lock the entrance once they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. There are outside and doorbell cameras that trigger a bright light or sounds if a lurker ventures too close. 

Make smarter delivery choices

A layered strategy and modern tech will help prevent package theft, but you can also help yourself by selecting optional delivery services. To illustrate:

• Require a signature. This is a smart choice, specifically for higher value goods. Deliveries will never be left out in the open. 
• Give instructions. Tell couriers where you want parcels dropped off and keep them out of sight.
• Redirect packages. Ship higher-dollar deliveries to somewhere else, like your office or a self-service storage locker. Carriers like Amazon provide secure lockers in Eau Claire where you can pick up deliveries.

Stop package theft in Eau Claire with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow filched packages to spoil your holiday season. An advanced Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your parcels in the right hands. You’ll enjoy remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance devices that help stop crime before it happens. Communicate with couriers or even unlock your door for package drop-offs, even when you’re not there. Contact (715) 419-6703 today to find out more and book your smart home installation in Eau Claire.