Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is eye-opening. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. All told, around 25% of Americans have been a victim of this crime at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a threat, most of all during the busy holiday season, but you don't need to be a victim! See how a layered strategy and the latest smart home security can keep your parcels protected in Ann Arbor.

A layered defense keeps Ann Arbor package thieves away

Holidays are already a challenge with packed calendars, travel chaos, budgets stretched to the limit, and inlaws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you want is a stolen package to push you over the top. So, what can you do to stop it? Installing a video doorbell is a solid idea, but there’s more to preventing porch pirates. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Security cameras covering your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know someone’s watching.
• Security signs. It’s simple but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A burst of light is typically enough to scare thieves off. But don’t forget, porch theft commonly occurs in broad daylight.
• Knowing your neighbors. It’s not just about the security devices you have in place. Neighbors can look out for one another and take note of unusual behavior. 

Current tech boosts your security

Home security continues to evolve. You can leverage these advancements to stop porch theft at your Ann Arbor home. Here are a few worth considering:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way communication. Give delivery drivers instructions or ask why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart door locks and home automation. Modern home security systems can be managed from wherever you are. Open your garage, tell the courier put deliveries inside, and then secure the entrance once they’re done. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. There are outside and doorbell cameras that trigger a bright light or sounds if someone gets too close. 

Make smarter delivery decisions

A layered approach and modern tech will help curtail package theft, but you can also help yourself by selecting optional delivery services. For instance:

• Request a signature. This is a great choice, specifically for more expensive items. Your orders will never be left out in the open. 
• Give instructions. Let drivers know where you would like boxes dropped off and keep them out of sight.
• Redirect packages. Send higher-dollar deliveries to somewhere else, like your office or a self-service storage locker. Providers like Amazon have secure lockers in Ann Arbor where you can grab deliveries.

Halt package theft in Ann Arbor with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let stolen packages dampen your holiday cheer. A modern 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 surveillance cameras that actively deter crime. Talk to delivery drivers or even unlock your door for delivery drop-offs, even when you’re away. Contact (734) 206-7166 today to find out more and arrange your home security installation in Ann Arbor.