Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are stunning. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves swiped $8.2 billion worth of online delivery orders in 2025. Overall, around 25% of Americans have had a package pilfered at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still an issue, most of all during the busy holiday season, but you don't have to be a victim! Discover how a layered approach and modern smart home technology can keep your deliveries secure in Minneapolis.

Layered protection keeps Minneapolis package bandits away

Holidays are stressful enough with scheduling headaches, travel nightmares, overtaxed budgets, and inlaws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you need is a stolen package to send you over the edge. So, how do you prevent it taking place? Adding a video doorbell is a solid first step, but there’s more to the puzzle of deterring porch pirates. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Security cameras covering your home’s perimeter. Let prowlers know someone’s watching.
• Security signage. It’s simple but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A burst of light is typically enough to scare prowlers off. But don’t forget, porch theft happens at all times of day.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not just about the security tech you own. Neighbors can keep an eye out for one another and flag questionable behavior. 

Modern technology boosts your security

Home security continues to evolve. You can leverage these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Minneapolis property. Consider the following options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way audio. Give delivery drivers instructions or find out why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart door locks and custom automation. Modern home security can be managed remotely. Open your garage, have a delivery driver put deliveries inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they leave. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You can now find doorbell and outdoor cameras that trigger warning lights or sounds if someone ventures too close. 

Make good delivery choices

A layered approach and modern devices will help prevent package theft, but you can also stay a step ahead by making smarter delivery choices. To illustrate:

• Require a signature. This is a wise choice, specifically for more expensive goods. Your orders will never be left sitting outside. 
• Provide instructions. Tell couriers where you want packages left and keep them out of view.
• Redirect packages. Ship higher-dollar deliveries to another location, like your office or a secure pickup locker. Carriers like Amazon provide secure lockers in Minneapolis where you can retrieve your packages.

Halt package theft in Minneapolis with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let stolen packages spoil your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your deliveries protected. You’ll benefit from 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. Call (612) 662-1765 today to learn more and book your smart home installation in Minneapolis.