Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is stunning. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves swiped $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. Overall, approximately 25% of Americans have been a victim of package theft at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still an issue, particularly during the busy holiday season, but you don't have to be a victim! Explore how a layered strategy and current smart home technology can keep your parcels secure in Augusta.

Layered protection keeps Augusta package bandits away

Holidays are already stressful enough with scheduling headaches, travel chaos, budgets stretched to the limit, and inlaws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you want is a pilfered package to send you over the top. So, how do you prevent it from happening? Installing a video doorbell is a solid idea, but there’s more to the puzzle of preventing porch theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Video cameras covering your home’s perimeter. Let prowlers know they’re being watched.
• Home security signs and decals. It’s simple but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A sudden burst of light is typically enough to scare criminals off. Just remember, porch theft commonly occurs during the day.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not only about what devices you have in place. Neighbors can look out for one another and flag unusual behavior. 

Modern technology boosts your security

Home security continues to evolve. You can use these advancements to stop porch theft at your Augusta home. Here are several worth considering:

• Video doorbells with two-way communication. Give delivery drivers instructions or find out why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart locks and home automation. Today’s home security systems can be managed from a distance. Unlock your front door or open your garage, have a delivery person put deliveries inside, and then secure the entrance when they leave. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. You can now find outside and doorbell cameras that activate a light display or audible alerts if a lurker ventures too close. 

Make smarter delivery choices

A layered approach and modern devices will help stop package theft, but you can also help yourself by making smarter delivery choices. For instance:

• Demand a signature. This is a great choice, specifically for higher value items. Your orders will never be left sitting outside. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Let drivers know where you want boxes placed and keep them hidden from view.
• Redirect packages. Ship higher-value deliveries to another location, like your office or a self-service storage locker. Companies like Amazon offer secure lockers in Augusta where you can pick up your packages.

Prevent package theft in Augusta with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let pilfered packages spoil your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your packages safe. You’ll enjoy remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance devices that help stop crime before it happens. Talk to couriers or even unlock your door for package drop-offs, no matter your location. Contact (706) 780-3805 today to find out more and book your smart home installation in Augusta.