Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are staggering. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion worth of online delivery orders in 2025. All told, approximately 25% of Americans have had a package taken at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still a threat, most of all during the busy holiday season, but you don't have to be a victim! Explore how a layered strategy and the latest smart home tech can keep your deliveries safe in Oakland.

A layered defense keeps Oakland porch pirates away

Holidays are stressful enough with travel chaos, packed calendars, stretched-out budgets, and in-laws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you want is a pilfered package to push you over the edge. So, how can you stop it from happening? Installing a video doorbell is a good opening move, but there’s more to the puzzle of preventing package theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Video cameras along your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know they’re being recorded.
• Security signs. It’s low-tech but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A burst of light is often enough to scare prowlers off. But keep in mind, porch theft happens at all hours.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not only about the security devices you own. Neighbors should look out for each other and take note of questionable behavior. 

Modern technology boosts your security

Home security keeps evolving. You can use these advancements to help prevent porch theft at your Oakland property. Consider the following options:

• Video doorbells with two-way audio. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or determine why someone’s at your door.
• Smart locks and home automation. Modern home security systems can be controlled from wherever you are. Unlock your front door or open your garage, let the courier put parcels inside, and then secure the entrance when they leave. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. There are doorbell and exterior cameras that trigger a bright light or audible alerts if a lurker comes too close. 

Make smarter delivery choices

A layered strategy and modern technology will help curtail package theft, but you can also help yourself by picking optional delivery services. For instance:

• Demand a signature. This is a smart choice, especially for more expensive items. Your packages will never be left sitting outside. 
• Give instructions. Tell drivers where you want parcels placed and keep them hidden from view.
• Reroute packages. Deliver higher-dollar deliveries to somewhere else, like your office or a secure pickup locker. Carriers like Amazon provide secure lockers in Oakland where you can retrieve your orders.

Halt package theft in Oakland with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow filched packages to spoil your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your packages in the right hands. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance devices that proactively deter crime. Communicate with couriers or even unlock your door for delivery drop-offs, even when you’re not home. Contact (510) 281-3999 today to find out more and arrange your smart home installation in Oakland.