Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are eye-opening. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion worth of online purchases in 2025. Overall, approximately 25% of Americans have had a package taken at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still an issue, most of all during the holiday season, but there’s no reason you have to be a victim. Explore how a layered strategy and current smart home technology can keep your deliveries secure in Naperville.

Layered security keeps Naperville package bandits away

Holidays are already a challenge with travel nightmares, scheduling conflicts, stretched-out budgets, and in-laws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you need is a missing delivery to push you over the top. So, how do you prevent it? Adding a video doorbell is a good first step, but there’s a lot more to stopping package theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Security cameras along your home’s perimeter. Let trespassers know they’re being recorded.
• Security signage. It’s simple but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A flash of light is typically enough to scare thieves off. Just remember, porch theft commonly happens during the day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not just about the security devices you have. Neighbors should watch out for one another and take note of suspicious behavior. 

Modern tech improves your protection

Home security is always evolving. You can leverage these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Naperville property. Consider the following options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way talk. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or find out why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart locks and custom automation. Modern home security systems can be operated from wherever you are. Unlock your front door, tell the delivery person put parcels inside, and then secure the entrance once they’re done. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You can now find outdoor and doorbell cameras that trigger a bright light or audible alerts if a lurker comes too close. 

Make good delivery decisions

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

• Request a signature. This is a great choice, specifically for more expensive goods. Your orders will never be left out in the open. 
• Provide instructions. Tell couriers where you want parcels placed and keep them hidden from view.
• Reroute packages. Send more expensive deliveries to an alternate location, like your place of work or a self-service locker. Companies like Amazon offer secure lockers in Naperville where you can retrieve your packages.

Prevent package theft in Naperville with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let missing packages spoil your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your packages protected. You’ll enjoy remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance devices that proactively deter crime. Communicate with couriers or even open your garage for delivery drop-offs, even when you’re away. Contact (630) 864-6179 today to learn more and arrange your smart home installation in Naperville.