Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are eye-opening. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves swiped $8.2 billion worth of online delivery orders in 2025. Overall, approximately 25% of Americans have had a package stolen at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a problem, particularly during the holidays, but there’s no reason you have to be a victim. Explore how a layered strategy and the latest smart home security can keep your packages protected in Lubbock.

Layered protection keeps Lubbock package thieves away

Holidays are already a challenge with travel nightmares, packed calendars, budgets stretched to the limit, and in-laws who stay too long. The last thing you need is a pilfered package to push you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it? Adding a doorbell camera is a good first step, but there’s a lot more to deterring package theft. 

A layered approach can include:

• Security cameras along your home’s border. Let thieves know they’re being watched.
• Home security signs and decals. It’s low-tech but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A sudden burst of light is often enough to send prowlers away. But don’t forget, porch theft occurs at any time of day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not only about the security devices you have. Neighbors should look out for each other and take note of suspicious behavior. 

Current tech boosts your defense

Home security continues to evolve. You can leverage these advancements to stop porch theft at your Lubbock home. Consider the following options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way communication. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or determine why someone’s at your door.
• Smart locks and custom automation. Today’s home security can be operated from wherever you are. Unlock your front door or open your garage, tell the delivery driver put packages inside, and then lock or close the entrance when they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. You’ll come across exterior and doorbell cameras that turn on warning lights or sounds if a lurker gets too close. 

Make good delivery choices

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

• Demand a signature. This is a great choice, specifically for higher value items. Your packages will never be left out in the open. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Let drivers know where you want packages placed and keep them out of sight.
• Change the delivery address. Ship higher-dollar deliveries to an alternate location, like your workplace or a self-service storage locker. Companies like Amazon provide secure lockers in Lubbock where you can pick up your packages.

Halt package theft in Lubbock with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow pilfered packages to dampen your holiday cheer. An advanced Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your packages protected. You’ll enjoy remote access, smart home automation, and video cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Talk to delivery drivers or even unlock your front door for delivery drop-offs, even when you’re not home. Contact (806) 615-4325 today to find out more and book your smart home installation in Lubbock.