Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are staggering. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. Overall, around 25% of Americans have been a victim of this crime at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still a threat, particularly during the holidays, but you don't have to be a victim! Discover how a layered plan and current smart home tech can keep your parcels secure in Hagerstown.

A layered defense keeps Hagerstown porch pirates away

Holidays are stressful enough with in-laws who stay too long, stretched-out budgets, packed calendars, and travel chaos. The last thing you need is a missing delivery to push you over the top. So, how do you prevent it from happening? Installing a video doorbell is a good first step, but there’s more to the puzzle of preventing package theft. 

A layered approach can include:

• Surveillance cameras along your home’s border. Let thieves know someone’s watching.
• Security signs and decals. It’s low-tech but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A burst of light is often enough to scare criminals off. But keep in mind, porch theft takes place at all times of day.
• Knowing your neighbors. It’s not merely about what devices you have. Neighbors should watch out for each other and report suspicious behavior. 

Current technology improves your protection

Home security continues to evolve. You can take advantage of these advancements to stop porch theft at your Hagerstown property. Here are several to consider:

• Video doorbells with two-way communication. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or find out why someone’s at your door.
• Smart door locks and custom automation. Modern home security systems can be controlled from wherever you are. Open your garage, let the delivery person put packages inside, and then lock or close the entrance when they leave. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. You can now find doorbell and outdoor cameras that turn on a bright light or sounds if a prowler comes too close. 

Make smart delivery choices

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

• Demand a signature. This is a great choice, specifically for higher value goods. Deliveries will never be left out in the open. 
• Give instructions. Tell drivers where you want parcels left and keep them out of view.
• Reroute packages. Deliver higher-value deliveries to somewhere else, like your office or a secure pickup locker. Companies like Amazon offer secure lockers in Hagerstown where you can retrieve deliveries.

Stop package theft in Hagerstown with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let pilfered packages ruin your holiday season. An advanced Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your deliveries in the right hands. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and video cameras that actively deter crime. Speak with couriers or even unlock your door for delivery drop-offs, even when you’re away. Call (301) 923-4840 today to learn more and book your home security installation in Hagerstown.