Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays
The figures are stunning. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves swiped $8.2 billion worth of online orders in 2025. In all, one in four Americans has been a victim of package theft at some point in their lives.
Porch pirates are clearly still a problem, most of all during the busy holiday season, but that doesn’t mean you need to be a victim. Discover how a layered plan and modern smart home technology can keep your packages protected in New Brunswick.
A layered defense keeps New Brunswick porch pirates away
Holidays are stressful enough with in-laws who overstay their welcome, stretched-out budgets, scheduling conflicts, and travel delays. The last thing you need is a missing delivery to send you over the top. So, how can you stop it? Ordering a video doorbell is a good first step, but there’s more to the puzzle of preventing package theft.
A layered defense can include:
- Surveillance cameras around your home’s border. Let prowlers know they’re being watched.
- Home security signs. It’s low-tech but still a proven deterrent.
- Motion-activated lights. A flash of light is usually enough to send thieves running. But don’t forget, porch theft occurs at any time of day.
- Knowing your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security devices you have in place. Neighbors can watch out for each other and flag questionable behavior.
Modern tech boosts your security
Home security keeps evolving. You can take advantage of these advancements to prevent porch theft at your New Brunswick home. Consider these options:
- Doorbell cameras with two-way talk. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or determine why someone’s at your door.
- Smart door locks and automation. Today’s home security systems can be managed remotely. Open your garage, have a delivery driver put parcels inside, and then close or lock the entrance once they’re done.
- Video cameras with active deterrence. You’ll come across doorbell and outdoor cameras that trigger warning lights or audible alerts if someone gets too close.
Make good delivery decisions
A layered strategy and modern devices will help stop package theft, but you can also help yourself by selecting optional delivery services. For instance:
- Demand a signature. This is a great choice, specifically for higher value goods. Your orders will never be left sitting outside.
- Provide instructions. Tell couriers where you would like parcels dropped off and keep them out of sight.
- Redirect packages. Deliver more expensive deliveries to an alternate location, like your office or a self-service locker. Providers like Amazon offer secure lockers in New Brunswick where you can grab your orders.
Stop package theft in New Brunswick with a Vivint smart home
Don’t allow filched packages to spoil your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your parcels protected. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance devices that actively deter crime. Communicate with couriers or even unlock your door for deliveries, even when you’re not there. Contact (732) 607-4656 today to learn more and schedule your smart home installation in New Brunswick.