Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is staggering. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves swiped $8.2 billion in online purchases in 2025. Overall, one in four Americans has had a package pilfered at some point 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. Explore how a layered approach and modern smart home tech can keep your deliveries secure in Springfield.

Layered security keeps Springfield porch pirates away

Holidays are already a challenge with scheduling headaches, travel nightmares, overextended budgets, and inlaws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you need is a missing delivery to send you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it? Adding a video doorbell is a smart opening move, but there’s more to the puzzle of stopping package theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Security cameras covering your home’s border. Let trespassers know they’re being recorded.
• Home security signage. It’s simple but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A sudden burst of light is often enough to send criminals running. But keep in mind, porch theft occurs at any time of day.
• Knowing your neighbors. It’s not only about what devices you own. Neighbors should look out for one another and report suspicious behavior. 

Today’s technology improves your defense

Home security is always evolving. You can leverage these advancements to stop porch theft at your Springfield property. Here are some worth installing:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way audio. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or find out why someone’s at your door.
• Smart door locks and automation. Modern home security can be controlled from a distance. Unlock your front door or open your garage, let the delivery person put deliveries inside, and then lock or close the entrance once they’re done. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You can now find outdoor and doorbell cameras that trigger a bright light or audible alerts if a prowler gets too close. 

Make smarter delivery decisions

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

• Demand a signature. This is a wise choice, especially for more expensive items. Your packages will never be left unattended. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Let drivers know where you would like parcels left and keep them hidden from view.
• Reroute packages. Send more expensive deliveries to somewhere else, like your office or a self-service locker. Carriers like Amazon have secure lockers in Springfield where you can retrieve your orders.

Halt package theft in Springfield with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow stolen packages to ruin your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your deliveries safe. You’ll benefit from remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance devices that proactively deter crime. Speak with couriers or even unlock your door for package drop-offs, even when you’re not home. Contact (217) 627-6647 today to find out more and arrange your home security installation in Springfield.