Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are eye-opening. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves stole $8.2 billion worth of online delivery orders in 2025. All told, approximately 25% of Americans have had a package taken at some time in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still an issue, especially during the busy holiday season, but you don't need to be a victim! See how a layered approach and current smart home technology can keep your parcels protected in Fort Myers.

Layered protection keeps Fort Myers porch pirates away

Holidays are stressful enough with travel chaos, scheduling headaches, stretched-out budgets, and in-laws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you want is a pilfered package to send you over the edge. So, how can you stop it? Installing a doorbell camera is a good idea, but there’s more to the puzzle of preventing porch pirates. 

A layered defense can include:

• Security cameras along your home’s perimeter. Let trespassers know someone’s watching.
• Home security signs. It’s simple but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A burst of light is usually enough to send prowlers away. Just remember, porch theft happens at all hours.
• Knowing your neighbors. It’s not only about the security devices you have. Neighbors should look out for one another and report suspicious behavior. 

Current technology boosts your defense

Home security is always evolving. You can leverage these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Fort Myers home. Here are several worth considering:

• Video doorbells with two-way talk. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or determine why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart locks and automation. Modern home security systems can be managed remotely. Unlock your front door, tell the delivery person put deliveries inside, and then secure the entrance when they’re done. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. There are outside and doorbell cameras that turn on warning lights or audible alerts if a prowler comes too close. 

Make good delivery choices

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

• Request a signature. This is a wise choice, specifically for high-value items. Your packages will never be left sitting outside. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Let drivers know where you would like boxes placed and keep them hidden from view.
• Redirect packages. Send higher-value deliveries to an alternate location, like your office or a secure pickup locker. Companies like Amazon offer secure lockers in Fort Myers where you can retrieve your packages.

Halt package theft in Fort Myers with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let missing packages dampen your holiday cheer. A modern Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your parcels protected. You’ll enjoy remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance cameras that actively deter crime. Communicate with delivery drivers or even open your garage for deliveries, no matter your location. Place a call to (239) 326-6141 today to learn more and book your home security installation in Fort Myers.