Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is staggering. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves made off with $8.2 billion worth of online orders in 2025. In all, around 25% of Americans have been a victim of this crime at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still a threat, especially during the holiday season, but there’s no reason you have to be a victim. Discover how a layered strategy and current smart home technology can keep your deliveries protected in Lake Havasu.

A layered defense keeps Lake Havasu package thieves away

Holidays are already a challenge with travel delays, scheduling headaches, stretched-out budgets, and in-laws who test your nerves. The last thing you need is a pilfered package to send you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it? Installing a video doorbell is a good opening move, but there’s more to preventing package theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Surveillance cameras along your home’s border. Let trespassers know they’re being watched.
• Security signs and decals. It’s old-school but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A burst of light is typically enough to send prowlers running. But keep in mind, porch theft takes place at all times of day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security devices you have in place. Neighbors can keep an eye out for one another and report unusual behavior. 

Modern technology strengthens your protection

Home security keeps evolving. You can leverage these advancements to stop porch theft at your Lake Havasu home. Here are some worth considering:

• Video doorbells with two-way audio. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or ask why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart door locks and custom automation. Today’s home security can be operated from wherever you are. Open your garage, let the delivery person put deliveries inside, and then lock or close the entrance when they leave. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. There are doorbell and outside cameras that turn on warning lights or sounds if a lurker ventures too close. 

Make smart delivery decisions

A layered approach and modern devices will help curtail package theft, but you can also be proactive and make smarter delivery decisions. For instance:

• Require a signature. This is a wise choice, particularly for higher value goods. Your orders will never be left sitting outside. 
• Provide instructions. Let drivers know where you would like packages placed and keep them out of view.
• Reroute packages. Deliver higher-value deliveries to an alternate location, like your office or a self-service locker. Providers like Amazon have secure lockers in Lake Havasu where you can grab your orders.

Prevent package theft in Lake Havasu with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow pilfered packages to dampen your holiday cheer. An advanced Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your parcels safe. You’ll benefit from remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance cameras that actively deter crime. Communicate with delivery drivers or even open your garage for package drop-offs, regardless of where you are. Place a call to (928) 877-2148 today to find out more and schedule your home security installation in Lake Havasu.