Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are staggering. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. Overall, one in four Americans has been a victim of package theft at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still a threat, particularly during the holidays, but there’s no reason you need to be a victim. Explore how a layered strategy and modern smart home security can keep your packages protected in Topeka.

Layered security keeps Topeka porch pirates away

Holidays are stressful enough with in-laws who stay too long, budgets stretched to the limit, packed calendars, and travel nightmares. The last thing you want is a missing delivery to send you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it taking place? Ordering a doorbell camera is a smart opening move, but there’s more to deterring porch pirates. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Surveillance cameras covering your home’s border. Let prowlers know they’re being watched.
• Home security signage. It’s low-tech but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A flash of light is often enough to send thieves away. Just remember, porch theft commonly occurs during daylight hours.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not only about the security devices you have in place. Neighbors can look out for each other and report unusual behavior. 

Current tech improves your protection

Home security keeps evolving. You can leverage these advancements to stop porch theft at your Topeka property. Here are a few worth installing:

• Video doorbells with two-way audio. Give instructions to delivery drivers or ask why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart door locks and automation. Today’s home security can be managed from wherever you are. Open your garage, let the delivery driver put packages inside, and then secure the entrance when they leave. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You can now find doorbell and exterior cameras that activate warning lights or sounds if someone ventures too close. 

Make smarter delivery decisions

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

• Demand a signature. This is a great choice, especially for more expensive items. Your orders will never be left unattended. 
• Provide instructions. Let drivers know where you would like packages dropped off and keep them hidden from view.
• Reroute packages. Send higher-value deliveries to somewhere else, like your workplace or a self-service storage locker. Carriers like Amazon provide secure lockers in Topeka where you can grab deliveries.

Prevent package theft in Topeka with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let stolen packages dampen your holiday cheer. A modern Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your deliveries protected. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance cameras that actively deter crime. Communicate with delivery drivers or even unlock your front door for deliveries, regardless of your location. Contact (785) 369-9429 today to find out more and schedule your home security installation in Topeka.