Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is stunning. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves made off with $8.2 billion worth of online delivery orders in 2025. In all, approximately 25% of Americans have been a victim of this crime at some time in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still an issue, most of all during the busy holiday season, but you don't need to be a victim! Discover how a layered strategy and modern smart home security can keep your deliveries protected in Morgantown.

Layered protection keeps Morgantown porch pirates away

Holidays are already a challenge with in-laws who test your nerves, budgets stretched to the limit, packed calendars, and travel chaos. The last thing you need is a missing delivery to push you over the top. So, how do you prevent it from happening? Installing a video doorbell is a smart first step, but there’s a lot more to deterring porch theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Surveillance cameras around your home’s border. Let prowlers know someone’s watching.
• Home security signs. It’s simple but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A flash of light is typically enough to frighten criminals off. Just remember, porch theft happens at any time of day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security tech you own. Neighbors can keep an eye out for each other and flag unusual behavior. 

Current tech improves your security

Home security keeps evolving. You can use these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Morgantown property. Here are some worth installing:

• Video doorbells with two-way communication. Give instructions to delivery drivers or determine why someone’s at your door.
• Smart locks and custom automation. Today’s home security systems can be controlled from a distance. Unlock your front door or open your garage, let the courier put deliveries inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they’re done. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. You’ll come across doorbell and exterior cameras that trigger a bright light or audible alerts if a prowler ventures too close. 

Make smarter delivery decisions

A layered defense and modern devices will help prevent package theft, but you can also help yourself by selecting optional delivery services. To illustrate:

• Request a signature. This is a smart choice, especially for high-value goods. Your orders will never be left out in the open. 
• Provide instructions. Let drivers know where you would like packages left and keep them hidden from view.
• Redirect packages. Ship higher-dollar deliveries to somewhere else, like your office or a self-service locker. Providers like Amazon provide secure lockers in Morgantown where you can grab your orders.

Prevent package theft in Morgantown with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow pilfered packages to dampen your holiday cheer. A modern Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your parcels safe. You’ll enjoy remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance devices that help stop crime before it happens. Speak with couriers or even open your garage for deliveries, even when you’re not home. Call (304) 903-6090 today to find out more and schedule your smart home installation in Morgantown.