Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are eye-opening. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves made off with $8.2 billion in online purchases in 2025. Overall, one in four Americans has had a package taken at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still an issue, most of all during the busy holiday season, but there’s no reason you have to be a victim. Explore how a layered plan and the latest smart home technology can keep your parcels protected in Muncie.

Layered security keeps Muncie package bandits away

Holidays are stressful enough with travel nightmares, scheduling headaches, budgets stretched to the limit, and in-laws who test your nerves. The last thing you want is a missing delivery to send you over the top. So, how can you stop it from happening? Ordering a doorbell camera is a smart first step, but there’s more to stopping porch theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Surveillance cameras around your home’s border. Let trespassers know they’re being watched.
• Security signs. It’s low-tech but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A sudden burst of light is usually enough to send thieves running. But don’t forget, porch theft takes place at all hours.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security devices you have in place. Neighbors should keep an eye out for each other and flag suspicious behavior. 

Current tech improves your protection

Home security keeps evolving. You can use these advancements to help prevent porch theft at your Muncie property. Here are a few to consider:

• Video doorbells with two-way communication. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or find out why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart locks and automation. Modern home security can be operated from wherever you are. Open your garage, tell the courier put packages inside, and then lock or close the entrance when they’re done. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You’ll come across exterior and doorbell cameras that activate a bright light or sounds if someone ventures too close. 

Make smarter delivery choices

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

• Demand a signature. This is a wise choice, specifically for more expensive goods. Deliveries will never be left out in the open. 
• Give instructions. Tell drivers where you want parcels placed and keep them out of sight.
• Reroute packages. Deliver more expensive deliveries to another location, like your workplace or a secure pickup locker. Carriers like Amazon have secure lockers in Muncie where you can retrieve your packages.

Prevent package theft in Muncie with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow stolen packages to ruin your holiday season. An advanced Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your parcels in the right hands. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance cameras that proactively deter crime. Communicate with delivery drivers or even unlock your door for package drop-offs, regardless of where you are. Place a call to (765) 562-9379 today to find out more and book your smart home installation in Muncie.