Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are staggering. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves swiped $8.2 billion worth of online orders in 2025. All told, one in four Americans has had a package stolen at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a problem, most of all during the busy holiday season, but you don't need to be a victim! Discover how a layered strategy and current smart home security can keep your deliveries secure in Palm Springs.

Layered security keeps Palm Springs package thieves away

Holidays are stressful enough with travel delays, packed calendars, stretched-out budgets, and in-laws who test your nerves. The last thing you need is a stolen package to push you over the edge. So, how do you prevent it? Adding a doorbell camera is a solid idea, but there’s a lot more to preventing porch theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Video cameras around your home’s perimeter. Let trespassers know they’re being watched.
• Home security signs. It’s simple but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A flash of light is often enough to send criminals away. Just remember, porch theft happens at all times of day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not only about what devices you have. Neighbors should look out for each other and report suspicious behavior. 

Modern technology improves your security

Home security is always evolving. You can use these advancements to help prevent porch theft at your Palm Springs home. Consider these options:

• Video doorbells with two-way talk. Give delivery drivers instructions or find out why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart locks and custom automation. Modern home security systems can be operated from wherever you are. Unlock your front door or open your garage, have a courier put parcels inside, and then secure the entrance once they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. You can now find exterior and doorbell cameras that turn on warning lights or audible alerts if a lurker comes too close. 

Make smart delivery decisions

A layered strategy and modern tech will help stop package theft, but you can also help yourself by selecting optional delivery services. To illustrate:

• Request a signature. This is a smart choice, specifically for high-value goods. Your packages will never be left sitting outside. 
• Provide instructions. Tell drivers where you want packages dropped off and keep them out of view.
• Change the delivery address. Deliver higher-value deliveries to somewhere else, like your office or a secure pickup locker. Companies like Amazon have secure lockers in Palm Springs where you can retrieve deliveries.

Stop package theft in Palm Springs with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let stolen packages spoil your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your packages in the right hands. You’ll enjoy remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance devices that help stop crime before it happens. Communicate with delivery drivers or even open your garage for package drop-offs, even when you’re not there. Contact (760) 334-5668 today to learn more and book your smart home installation in Palm Springs.