Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are eye-opening. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. In all, one in four Americans has been a victim of this crime at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a problem, most of all during the holiday season, but you don't have to be a victim! Explore how a layered plan and the latest smart home security can keep your parcels secure in El Paso.

Layered protection keeps El Paso porch pirates away

Holidays are stressful enough with travel delays, scheduling headaches, stretched-out budgets, and in-laws who stay too long. The last thing you want is a missing delivery to send you over the top. So, what can you do to stop it from happening? Installing a video doorbell is a solid idea, but there’s a lot more to preventing package theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Video cameras around your home’s border. Let thieves know they’re being recorded.
• Home security signs. It’s low-tech but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A sudden burst of light is typically enough to frighten prowlers off. But don’t forget, porch theft commonly occurs during daylight hours.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security devices you have in place. Neighbors can keep an eye out for each other and take note of unusual behavior. 

Today’s tech improves your defense

Home security continues to evolve. You can take advantage of these advancements to prevent porch theft at your El Paso property. Consider these options:

• Video doorbells with two-way talk. Give delivery drivers instructions or ask why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart door locks and automation. Modern home security systems can be controlled remotely. Unlock your front door or open your garage, let the courier put parcels inside, and then lock or close the entrance when they leave. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. There are outside and doorbell cameras that turn on a light display or audible alerts if someone comes too close. 

Make smart delivery decisions

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

• Request a signature. This is a wise choice, specifically for more expensive goods. Deliveries will never be left unattended. 
• Give instructions. Let drivers know where you would like packages dropped off and keep them out of sight.
• Change the delivery address. Deliver more expensive deliveries to another location, like your office or a self-service locker. Providers like Amazon offer secure lockers in El Paso where you can pick up your orders.

Stop package theft in El Paso with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let pilfered packages dampen your holiday cheer. An advanced Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your packages protected. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and video cameras that proactively deter crime. Speak with couriers or even unlock your door for deliveries, even when you’re not there. Place a call to (915) 465-3064 today to find out more and book your home security installation in El Paso.