Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are stunning. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves made off with $8.2 billion in online delivery orders in 2025. Overall, one in four Americans has been a victim of this crime at some time in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a problem, especially during the busy holiday season, but you don't need to be a victim! Discover how a layered plan and the latest smart home security can keep your packages secure in Napa.

Layered protection keeps Napa package bandits away

Holidays are already a challenge with scheduling conflicts, travel delays, overtaxed budgets, and inlaws who stay too long. The last thing you need is a pilfered package to send you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it taking place? Installing a doorbell camera is a good first step, but there’s a lot more to deterring porch pirates. 

A layered approach can include:

• Video cameras along your home’s perimeter. Let prowlers know someone’s watching.
• Security signs and decals. It’s low-tech but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A sudden burst of light is often enough to frighten criminals off. But keep in mind, porch theft commonly happens during daylight hours.
• Knowing your neighbors. It’s not only about the security devices you have in place. Neighbors can look out for one another and take note of questionable behavior. 

Modern tech strengthens your protection

Home security is always evolving. You can use these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Napa property. Consider the following options:

• Video doorbells with two-way talk. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or determine why someone’s at your door.
• Smart locks and custom automation. Modern home security systems can be controlled remotely. Unlock your front door, let the courier put deliveries inside, and then lock or close the entrance once they’re done. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You’ll come across exterior and doorbell cameras that activate a bright light or audible alerts if someone ventures too close. 

Make good delivery choices

A layered approach and modern technology will help stop package theft, but you can also be proactive and make smarter delivery choices. To illustrate:

• Request a signature. This is a smart choice, specifically for more expensive goods. Your orders will never be left unattended. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Let drivers know where you would like packages placed and keep them out of view.
• Change the delivery address. Deliver higher-dollar deliveries to somewhere else, like your place of work or a self-service storage locker. Providers like Amazon provide secure lockers in Napa where you can pick up deliveries.

Stop package theft in Napa with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow filched packages to ruin your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your parcels in the right hands. You’ll appreciate having remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Speak with couriers or even open your garage for package drop-offs, even when you’re not there. Place a call to (707) 895-5704 today to find out more and arrange your smart home installation in Napa.