Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are staggering. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves made off with $8.2 billion worth of online purchases in 2025. All told, one in four Americans has been a victim of package theft at some time in their lives. 

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

Layered security keeps Virginia Beach package thieves away

Holidays are already stressful enough with travel nightmares, packed calendars, overextended budgets, and in-laws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you need is a missing delivery to send you over the top. So, what can you do to stop it? Adding a doorbell camera is a good opening move, but there’s a lot more to preventing porch theft. 

A layered approach can include:

• Video cameras around your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know they’re being watched.
• Home security signs and decals. It’s low-tech but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A burst of light is typically enough to scare thieves off. But don’t forget, porch theft commonly happens during daylight hours.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not just about the security devices you own. Neighbors can watch out for one another and report questionable behavior. 

Modern technology improves your protection

Home security continues to evolve. You can take advantage of these advancements to stop porch theft at your Virginia Beach home. Consider these options:

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

Make smarter delivery decisions

A layered approach and modern devices will help prevent package theft, but you can also help yourself by making smarter delivery choices. For example:

• Request a signature. This is a smart choice, especially for high-value goods. Your packages will never be left out in the open. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Tell couriers where you would like parcels left and keep them hidden from view.
• Change the delivery address. Send higher-dollar deliveries to an alternate location, like your office or a self-service storage locker. Providers like Amazon offer secure lockers in Virginia Beach where you can retrieve deliveries.

Stop package theft in Virginia Beach with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow pilfered packages to spoil your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your parcels safe. You’ll benefit from remote access, smart home automation, and video cameras that proactively deter crime. Speak with delivery drivers or even unlock your door for delivery drop-offs, no matter your location. Contact (757) 294-8561 today to learn more and arrange your smart home installation in Virginia Beach.