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 swiped $8.2 billion in online purchases in 2025. Overall, around 25% of Americans have had a package stolen at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still a threat, especially during the busy holiday season, but you don't have to be a victim! See how a layered strategy and current smart home security can keep your packages protected in Texarkana.

A layered defense keeps Texarkana package thieves away

Holidays are already a challenge with packed calendars, travel nightmares, budgets stretched to the limit, and inlaws who stay too long. The last thing you want is a stolen package to send you over the edge. So, how do you prevent it taking place? Ordering a doorbell camera is a solid first step, but there’s more to preventing porch theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Video cameras covering your home’s perimeter. Let prowlers know they’re being watched.
• Security signage. It’s simple but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A sudden burst of light is usually enough to scare thieves off. But don’t forget, porch theft takes place at any time of day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not just about the security devices you have. Neighbors should look out for one another and report questionable behavior. 

Today’s technology improves your protection

Home security keeps evolving. You can leverage these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Texarkana home. Consider the following options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way audio. Give delivery drivers instructions or find out why someone’s at your door.
• Smart locks and custom automation. Modern home security systems can be managed from wherever you are. Open your garage, let the delivery driver put packages inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they leave. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. There are doorbell and outdoor cameras that activate a light display or audible alerts if a prowler ventures too close. 

Make good delivery choices

A layered defense and modern tech will help prevent package theft, but you can also stay a step ahead by making smarter delivery decisions. For instance:

• Require a signature. This is a smart choice, particularly for higher value items. Deliveries will never be left unattended. 
• Provide instructions. Let drivers know where you would like parcels dropped off and keep them out of sight.
• Change the delivery address. Ship higher-value deliveries to somewhere else, like your office or a self-service storage locker. Carriers like Amazon offer secure lockers in Texarkana where you can retrieve your packages.

Halt package theft in Texarkana with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let pilfered packages spoil your holiday season. An advanced Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your packages in the right hands. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and video cameras that proactively deter crime. Communicate with delivery drivers or even unlock your front door for deliveries, even when you’re not home. Place a call to (870) 544-4225 today to learn more and schedule your smart home installation in Texarkana.