Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are eye-opening. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves made off with $8.2 billion worth of online orders in 2025. All told, approximately 25% of Americans have had a package stolen at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still a problem, particularly during the busy holiday season, but that doesn’t mean you have to be a victim. See how a layered strategy and the latest smart home technology can keep your deliveries protected in Tallahassee.

Layered protection keeps Tallahassee porch pirates away

Holidays are stressful enough with travel chaos, scheduling headaches, overextended budgets, and in-laws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you need is a pilfered package to send you over the edge. So, how can you stop it from happening? Installing a video doorbell is a good opening move, but there’s more to the puzzle of stopping porch pirates. 

A layered defense can include:

• Security cameras along your home’s border. Let trespassers know they’re being watched.
• Security signs. It’s low-tech but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A burst of light is typically enough to send prowlers away. But don’t forget, porch theft happens at all hours.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not just about what devices you have. Neighbors can watch out for each other and flag suspicious behavior. 

Current technology strengthens your defense

Home security is always evolving. You can leverage these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Tallahassee property. Here are several to consider:

• Video doorbells with two-way communication. Give delivery drivers instructions or find out why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart locks and automation. Today’s home security can be managed from wherever you are. Unlock your front door or open your garage, tell the delivery driver put deliveries inside, and then secure the entrance when they leave. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You’ll come across exterior and doorbell cameras that turn on a light display or audible alerts if someone gets too close. 

Make smarter delivery choices

A layered approach and modern devices will help curtail package theft, but you can also help yourself by selecting optional delivery services. To illustrate:

• Require a signature. This is a smart choice, especially for more expensive goods. Your orders will never be left out in the open. 
• Give instructions. Tell couriers where you would like packages placed and keep them out of sight.
• Change the delivery address. Deliver more expensive deliveries to somewhere else, like your office or a self-service storage locker. Carriers like Amazon provide secure lockers in Tallahassee where you can pick up deliveries.

Prevent package theft in Tallahassee with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let pilfered packages dampen your holiday cheer. An advanced Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your parcels in the right hands. You’ll benefit from remote access, smart home automation, and video cameras that actively deter crime. Talk to couriers or even unlock your front door for deliveries, even when you’re not home. Call (850) 790-4997 today to find out more and book your smart home installation in Tallahassee.