Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are stunning. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves swiped $8.2 billion in online delivery orders in 2025. Overall, approximately 25% of Americans have had a package pilfered at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still an issue, especially during the holiday season, but there’s no reason you have to be targeted. See how a layered strategy and the latest smart home tech can keep your parcels safe in Alpharetta.

Layered protection keeps Alpharetta package bandits away

Holidays are already stressful enough with in-laws who overstay their welcome, budgets stretched to the limit, scheduling headaches, and travel delays. The last thing you need is a missing delivery to send you over the top. So, how can you stop it taking place? Installing a video doorbell is a smart first step, but there’s a lot more to deterring porch theft. 

A layered approach can include:

• Security cameras covering your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know they’re being watched.
• Home security signage. It’s low-tech but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A sudden burst of light is often enough to send prowlers away. But keep in mind, porch theft happens at all times of day.
• Knowing your neighbors. It’s not just about the security tech you have in place. Neighbors can look out for one another and take note of suspicious behavior. 

Modern tech strengthens your protection

Home security keeps evolving. You can take advantage of these advancements to stop porch theft at your Alpharetta property. Consider the following options:

• Video doorbells with two-way talk. Give instructions to delivery drivers or ask why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart door locks and custom automation. Modern home security systems can be controlled from a distance. Open your garage, let the delivery driver put packages inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. There are outside and doorbell cameras that trigger a light display or sounds if a prowler gets too close. 

Make good delivery decisions

A layered approach and modern devices will help stop package theft, but you can also help yourself by selecting optional delivery services. For instance:

• Demand a signature. This is a smart choice, specifically for more expensive goods. Your orders will never be left sitting outside. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Tell drivers where you want parcels dropped off and keep them out of sight.
• Change the delivery address. Deliver higher-dollar deliveries to an alternate location, like your workplace or a self-service storage locker. Carriers like Amazon have secure lockers in Alpharetta where you can retrieve your packages.

Halt package theft in Alpharetta with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow pilfered packages to spoil your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your parcels in the right hands. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and video cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Communicate with couriers or even unlock your door for delivery drop-offs, even when you’re away. Call (678) 379-1627 today to learn more and book your smart home installation in Alpharetta.