Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays
The figures are staggering. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves stole $8.2 billion worth of online delivery orders in 2025. In all, around 25% of Americans have had a package taken at least once in their lives.
Porch pirates are obviously still a problem, particularly during the busy holiday season, but that doesn’t mean you have to be a victim. Explore how a layered strategy and modern smart home technology can keep your deliveries safe in San Jose .
Layered security keeps San Jose package thieves away
Holidays are already stressful enough with travel chaos, packed calendars, overextended budgets, and in-laws who stay too long. The last thing you want is a missing delivery to send you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it? Adding a doorbell camera is a smart opening move, but there’s more to preventing package theft.
A layered approach can include:
- Surveillance cameras covering your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know they’re being watched.
- Security signage. It’s low-tech but still a powerful deterrent.
- Motion-sensing lights. A sudden burst of light is usually enough to frighten thieves off. But don’t forget, porch theft takes place at all hours.
- Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security tech you have in place. Neighbors should look out for each other and report questionable behavior.
Modern technology improves your security
Home security keeps evolving. You can leverage these advancements to help prevent porch theft at your San Jose property. Consider these options:
- Doorbell cameras with two-way communication. Give delivery drivers instructions or determine why someone’s on your doorstep.
- Smart door locks and custom automation. Today’s home security systems can be operated from wherever you are. Open your garage, let the delivery driver put parcels inside, and then lock or close the entrance when they’re done.
- Video cameras with active deterrence. You’ll come across doorbell and exterior cameras that activate a bright light or sounds if someone gets too close.
Make smart delivery decisions
A layered strategy and modern tech will help prevent package theft, but you can also be proactive and make smarter delivery choices. For example:
- Demand a signature. This is a wise choice, specifically for more expensive items. Your orders will never be left sitting outside.
- Give instructions. Let drivers know where you would like parcels placed and keep them out of view.
- Reroute packages. Deliver higher-dollar deliveries to another location, like your place of work or a self-service storage locker. Providers like Amazon offer secure lockers in San Jose where you can grab your packages.
Stop package theft in San Jose 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 safe. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and video cameras that proactively deter crime. Communicate with delivery drivers or even unlock your door for delivery drop-offs, no matter where you are. Place a call to (408) 790-0318 today to learn more and arrange your smart home installation in San Jose .