Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is staggering. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves made off with $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. All told, one in four Americans has been a victim of package theft at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still an issue, most of all during the holiday season, but there’s no reason you need to be a victim. Discover how a layered approach and current smart home technology can keep your deliveries protected in Charleston.

Layered security keeps Charleston package thieves away

Holidays are already stressful enough with in-laws who overstay their welcome, stretched-out budgets, scheduling headaches, and travel nightmares. The last thing you need is a missing delivery to send you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it from happening? Adding a video doorbell is a smart opening move, but there’s more to deterring porch pirates. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Video cameras covering your home’s perimeter. Let prowlers know someone’s watching.
• Home security signs and decals. It’s simple but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A flash of light is typically enough to frighten prowlers off. Just remember, porch theft commonly takes place in broad daylight.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security devices you have. Neighbors should keep an eye out for each other and report suspicious behavior. 

Current technology improves your security

Home security continues to evolve. You can leverage these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Charleston property. Here are some worth considering:

• Video doorbells with two-way talk. Give instructions to delivery drivers or determine why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart door locks and automation. Today’s home security systems can be managed remotely. Unlock your front door or open your garage, tell the courier put parcels inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. There are exterior and doorbell cameras that trigger a light display or sounds if a prowler comes too close. 

Make smarter delivery choices

A layered defense and modern devices will help curtail package theft, but you can also help yourself by choosing optional delivery services. For example:

• Require a signature. This is a great choice, especially for high-value items. Deliveries will never be left unattended. 
• Provide instructions. Tell couriers where you want packages dropped off and keep them out of view.
• Redirect packages. Send higher-dollar deliveries to somewhere else, like your workplace or a secure pickup locker. Providers like Amazon offer secure lockers in Charleston where you can pick up your orders.

Halt package theft in Charleston with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let pilfered packages ruin your holiday season. An advanced Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your parcels protected. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance cameras that actively deter crime. Talk to delivery drivers or even unlock your front door for package drop-offs, even when you’re away. Contact (843) 892-5638 today to find out more and book your smart home installation in Charleston.