Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is staggering. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves stole $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. In all, one in four Americans has had a package stolen at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still a problem, especially during the 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 packages secure in Wichita.

A layered defense keeps Wichita package bandits away

Holidays are stressful enough with in-laws who overstay their welcome, stretched-out budgets, scheduling headaches, and travel delays. The last thing you need is a missing delivery to send you over the edge. So, how can you stop it? Installing a doorbell camera is a good idea, but there’s a lot more to preventing package theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Security cameras along your home’s border. Let thieves know someone’s watching.
• Home security signage. It’s low-tech but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A flash of light is usually enough to send thieves running. But keep in mind, porch theft happens at all times of day.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not just about what devices you have. Neighbors should look out for each other and take note of suspicious behavior. 

Today’s technology improves your protection

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

• Video doorbells with two-way communication. Give instructions to delivery drivers or determine why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart locks and home automation. Modern home security systems can be operated remotely. Open your garage, tell the delivery driver put deliveries inside, and then secure the entrance when they’re done. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You’ll come across outside and doorbell cameras that activate warning lights or sounds if someone ventures too close. 

Make good delivery decisions

A layered strategy and modern devices will help prevent package theft, but you can also stay a step ahead by making smarter delivery decisions. To illustrate:

• Request a signature. This is a great choice, particularly for high-value items. Deliveries will never be left sitting outside. 
• Give instructions. Let drivers know where you want parcels dropped off and keep them out of view.
• Reroute packages. Ship higher-dollar deliveries to somewhere else, like your office or a secure pickup locker. Companies like Amazon provide secure lockers in Wichita where you can pick up your orders.

Prevent package theft in Wichita with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow filched packages to spoil your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your packages safe. You’ll benefit from remote access, custom home automation, and video cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Speak with delivery drivers or even unlock your front door for delivery drop-offs, even when you’re not there. Contact (316) 844-6283 today to find out more and arrange your home security installation in Wichita.