Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are staggering. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves stole $8.2 billion in online purchases in 2025. All told, approximately 25% of Americans have had a package stolen at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still a threat, most of all during the busy holiday season, but there’s no reason you need to be a victim. See how a layered strategy and modern smart home tech can keep your packages safe in Tucson.

Layered protection keeps Tucson porch pirates away

Holidays are stressful enough with travel chaos, packed calendars, stretched-out budgets, and in-laws who test your nerves. The last thing you need is a pilfered package to push you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it from happening? Adding a doorbell camera is a good first step, but there’s more to the puzzle of stopping porch pirates. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Surveillance cameras around your home’s border. Let prowlers know they’re being recorded.
• Security signage. It’s old-school but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A flash of light is typically enough to frighten criminals off. But keep in mind, porch theft occurs at any time of day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not just about what devices you have. Neighbors should watch out for each other and take note of suspicious behavior. 

Today’s tech boosts your defense

Home security keeps evolving. You can take advantage of these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Tucson property. Here are a few worth installing:

• Video doorbells with two-way talk. Give instructions to delivery drivers or ask why someone’s at your door.
• Smart locks and automation. Modern home security systems can be managed from a distance. Unlock your front door or open your garage, tell the delivery driver put deliveries inside, and then lock or close the entrance when they leave. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. There are doorbell and outdoor cameras that activate a light display or audible alerts if a prowler ventures too close. 

Make smarter delivery decisions

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

• Demand a signature. This is a smart choice, especially for high-value goods. Your packages will never be left out in the open. 
• Provide instructions. Let drivers know where you want parcels placed and keep them out of sight.
• Redirect packages. Ship more expensive deliveries to an alternate location, like your workplace or a self-service locker. Carriers like Amazon offer secure lockers in Tucson where you can retrieve your packages.

Halt package theft in Tucson with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let stolen packages dampen your holiday cheer. A modern Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your deliveries in the right hands. You’ll appreciate having remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance devices that help stop crime before it happens. Communicate with couriers or even unlock your front door for delivery drop-offs, regardless of your location. Call (520) 655-6492 today to find out more and arrange your home security installation in Tucson.