Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays
The statistics are stunning. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves made off with $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. Overall, approximately 25% of Americans have had a package taken at least once in their lives.
Porch pirates are definitely still a problem, particularly during the holidays, but you don't have to be a victim! See how a layered approach and modern smart home tech can keep your parcels safe in South Bend.
Layered security keeps South Bend package thieves away
Holidays are already a challenge with in-laws who stay too long, overextended budgets, packed calendars, and travel chaos. The last thing you want is a stolen package to send you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it? Installing a doorbell camera is a solid idea, but there’s more to the puzzle of deterring porch theft.
A layered approach can include:
- Video cameras along your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know they’re being watched.
- Security signs and decals. It’s simple but still an effective deterrent.
- Motion-activated lighting. A burst of light is often enough to frighten prowlers off. But keep in mind, porch theft commonly occurs during the day.
- Knowing your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security tech you have in place. Neighbors can keep an eye out for one another and take note of unusual behavior.
Current technology boosts your security
Home security continues to evolve. You can use these advancements to help prevent porch theft at your South Bend home. Here are some worth considering:
- Doorbell cameras with two-way communication. Give instructions to delivery drivers or determine why someone’s on your porch.
- Smart locks and home automation. Modern home security systems can be controlled from wherever you are. Open your garage, tell the delivery person put deliveries inside, and then lock or close the entrance once they’re done.
- Surveillance with active deterrence. You’ll come across doorbell and outside cameras that trigger a light display or sounds if a prowler comes too close.
Make good delivery decisions
A layered strategy and modern technology will help stop package theft, but you can also help yourself by picking optional delivery services. For instance:
- Request a signature. This is a smart choice, particularly for higher value items. Your packages will never be left sitting outside.
- Leave delivery instructions. Let drivers know where you would like boxes placed and keep them out of sight.
- Reroute packages. Send higher-dollar deliveries to an alternate location, like your workplace or a self-service storage locker. Providers like Amazon have secure lockers in South Bend where you can retrieve deliveries.
Stop package theft in South Bend with a Vivint smart home
Don’t allow stolen packages to ruin your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your deliveries safe. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance cameras that actively deter crime. Communicate with delivery drivers or even unlock your door for delivery drop-offs, no matter where you are. Contact (574) 601-4641 today to learn more and arrange your home security installation in South Bend.