Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are eye-opening. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves swiped $8.2 billion in online purchases in 2025. In all, one in four Americans has had a package pilfered at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still an issue, most of all during the holiday season, but you don't have to be a victim! See how a layered approach and the latest smart home technology can keep your parcels safe in Evanston.

Layered security keeps Evanston package bandits away

Holidays are already stressful enough with travel chaos, packed calendars, overextended budgets, and in-laws who stay too long. The last thing you want is a missing delivery to push you over the top. So, how can you stop it from happening? Adding a doorbell camera is a smart idea, but there’s more to stopping porch pirates. 

A layered defense can include:

• Security cameras covering your home’s border. Let thieves know they’re being recorded.
• Home security signs and decals. It’s simple but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A flash of light is often enough to frighten thieves off. Just remember, porch theft happens at all hours.
• Knowing your neighbors. It’s not only about the security devices you own. Neighbors can look out for one another and take note of suspicious behavior. 

Modern tech strengthens your defense

Home security is always evolving. You can take advantage of these advancements to help prevent porch theft at your Evanston home. Consider the following options:

• Video doorbells with two-way audio. Give delivery drivers instructions or ask why someone’s at your door.
• Smart locks and home automation. Today’s home security systems can be controlled remotely. Unlock your front door, let the delivery driver put deliveries inside, and then secure the entrance once they’re done. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. You’ll come across outside and doorbell cameras that turn on warning lights or sounds if a lurker comes too close. 

Make smarter delivery decisions

A layered defense and modern devices will help prevent package theft, but you can also help yourself by selecting optional delivery services. For instance:

• Require a signature. This is a wise choice, specifically for high-value goods. Your packages will never be left out in the open. 
• Give instructions. Tell drivers where you want boxes dropped off and keep them out of sight.
• Reroute packages. Send higher-dollar deliveries to somewhere else, like your place of work or a self-service locker. Companies like Amazon offer secure lockers in Evanston where you can retrieve deliveries.

Halt package theft in Evanston with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow filched packages to ruin your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your parcels protected. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance devices that help stop crime before it happens. Speak with delivery drivers or even open your garage for package drop-offs, regardless of your location. Call (847) 925-7636 today to learn more and book your smart home installation in Evanston.