Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are stunning. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves swiped $8.2 billion worth of online purchases in 2025. In all, one in four Americans has been a victim of package theft at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still an issue, most of all during the holiday season, but that doesn’t mean you need to be a victim. See how a layered approach and current smart home technology can keep your parcels safe in San Francisco.

Layered security keeps San Francisco package thieves away

Holidays are stressful enough with travel nightmares, scheduling conflicts, stretched-out budgets, and in-laws who stay too long. The last thing you need is a missing delivery to send you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it taking place? Ordering a doorbell camera is a smart opening move, but there’s more to the puzzle of stopping porch pirates. 

A layered defense can include:

• Security cameras covering your home’s border. Let trespassers know they’re being watched.
• Security signs. It’s simple but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A sudden burst of light is often enough to send criminals running. Just remember, porch theft commonly takes place during the day.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not only about what devices you own. Neighbors can keep an eye out for one another and take note of suspicious behavior. 

Current technology improves your security

Home security is always evolving. You can leverage these advancements to stop porch theft at your San Francisco home. Consider these options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way talk. Give instructions to delivery drivers or ask why someone’s at your door.
• Smart locks and home automation. Today’s home security can be managed from a distance. 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 can now find exterior and doorbell cameras that trigger warning lights or audible alerts if a prowler gets too close. 

Make good delivery choices

A layered strategy and modern technology will help stop package theft, but you can also help yourself by picking optional delivery services. For instance:

• Demand a signature. This is a wise choice, particularly for high-value items. Your packages will never be left out in the open. 
• Provide instructions. Tell couriers where you want packages placed and keep them out of view.
• Redirect packages. Ship more expensive deliveries to an alternate location, like your place of work or a self-service storage locker. Providers like Amazon offer secure lockers in San Francisco where you can retrieve your orders.

Halt package theft in San Francisco with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let stolen packages ruin your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your packages protected. You’ll benefit from remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance devices that help stop crime before it happens. Communicate with couriers or even open your garage for package drop-offs, even when you’re not there. Contact (415) 969-9484 today to learn more and arrange your home security installation in San Francisco.