Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are staggering. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion worth of online purchases in 2025. In all, around 25% of Americans have had a package taken at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a problem, most of all during the holiday season, but you don't have to be a victim! Discover how a layered plan and modern smart home technology can keep your packages secure in Eugene.

Layered protection keeps Eugene package bandits away

Holidays are already stressful enough with scheduling conflicts, travel nightmares, overextended budgets, and inlaws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you need is a pilfered package to send you over the top. So, what can you do to stop it? Adding a doorbell camera is a good opening move, but there’s a lot more to preventing package theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Surveillance cameras around your home’s perimeter. Let trespassers know someone’s watching.
• Home security signage. It’s low-tech but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A flash of light is usually enough to scare prowlers off. Just remember, porch theft takes place at all hours.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not just about what devices you have in place. Neighbors should watch out for each other and report questionable behavior. 

Modern technology boosts your protection

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

• Video doorbells with two-way audio. Give instructions to delivery drivers or determine why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart locks and automation. Modern home security systems can be operated remotely. Unlock your front door or open your garage, tell the courier put packages inside, and then secure the entrance once they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. There are outdoor and doorbell cameras that trigger warning lights or sounds if someone ventures too close. 

Make good delivery decisions

A layered strategy and modern tech will help prevent package theft, but you can also help yourself by making smarter delivery decisions. For example:

• Require a signature. This is a wise choice, particularly for higher value goods. Your orders will never be left sitting outside. 
• Provide instructions. Let drivers know where you would like boxes dropped off and keep them hidden from view.
• Redirect packages. Ship higher-dollar deliveries to an alternate location, like your workplace or a self-service storage locker. Carriers like Amazon offer secure lockers in Eugene where you can retrieve deliveries.

Stop package theft in Eugene with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let missing packages ruin your holiday season. An advanced Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your deliveries in the right hands. You’ll benefit from remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Talk to couriers or even open your garage for deliveries, even when you’re away. Contact (541) 313-4091 today to find out more and arrange your home security installation in Eugene.