Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

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

Porch pirates are clearly still a problem, particularly during the holidays, but you don't need to be a victim! See how a layered approach and current smart home tech can keep your packages safe in Long Beach.

A layered defense keeps Long Beach package thieves away

Holidays are already a challenge with travel chaos, scheduling headaches, overextended budgets, and in-laws who stay too long. The last thing you want is a stolen package to push you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it taking place? Installing a doorbell camera is a good first step, but there’s a lot more to deterring porch theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Surveillance cameras covering your home’s border. Let thieves know they’re being recorded.
• Home security signs. It’s simple but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A flash of light is usually enough to scare thieves off. Just remember, porch theft commonly occurs in broad daylight.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not only about the security devices you have in place. Neighbors should keep an eye out for each other and report questionable behavior. 

Modern tech boosts your security

Home security keeps evolving. You can use these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Long Beach home. Consider these options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way talk. Give delivery drivers instructions or find out why someone’s at your door.
• Smart door locks and automation. Today’s home security systems can be controlled from a distance. Unlock your front door, have a courier put packages inside, and then lock or close the entrance when they’re done. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. There are outside and doorbell cameras that trigger warning lights or sounds if a lurker ventures too close. 

Make smarter delivery decisions

A layered approach and modern technology will help curtail package theft, but you can also help yourself by making smarter delivery choices. To illustrate:

• Require a signature. This is a wise choice, especially for high-value goods. Deliveries will never be left unattended. 
• Give instructions. Tell couriers where you would like boxes left and keep them out of sight.
• Redirect packages. Send higher-value deliveries to an alternate location, like your office or a self-service locker. Companies like Amazon offer secure lockers in Long Beach where you can retrieve your orders.

Halt package theft in Long Beach with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let missing packages ruin your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your deliveries safe. You’ll enjoy remote access, smart home automation, and video cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Communicate with couriers or even unlock your door for package drop-offs, even when you’re not home. Place a call to (562) 376-5457 today to find out more and arrange your home security installation in Long Beach.