Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays
The statistics are stunning. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion worth of online orders in 2025. All told, one in four Americans has had a package stolen at least once in their lives.
Porch pirates are definitely still an issue, especially during the busy holiday season, but you don't need to be a victim! Explore how a layered plan and modern smart home technology can keep your parcels protected in Fort Collins.
A layered defense keeps Fort Collins package bandits away
Holidays are stressful enough with scheduling headaches, travel delays, overextended budgets, and inlaws who stay too long. The last thing you need is a missing delivery to push you over the edge. So, how do you prevent it? Installing a video doorbell is a good first step, but there’s more to the puzzle of preventing porch pirates.
A layered strategy can include:
- Surveillance cameras covering your home’s border. Let thieves know someone’s watching.
- Home security signs and decals. It’s simple but still an effective deterrent.
- Motion-sensing lights. A burst of light is often enough to scare criminals off. But keep in mind, porch theft commonly occurs during daylight hours.
- Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not only about the security tech you have in place. Neighbors can watch out for one another and take note of unusual behavior.
Modern technology improves your security
Home security is always evolving. You can leverage these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Fort Collins property. Consider these options:
- Doorbell cameras with two-way communication. Give delivery drivers instructions or find out why someone’s on your porch.
- Smart locks and custom automation. Today’s home security systems can be managed from a distance. Unlock your front door or open your garage, tell the delivery person put parcels inside, and then secure the entrance when they leave.
- Cameras with active deterrence. You’ll come across doorbell and exterior cameras that turn on a bright light or audible alerts if a lurker ventures too close.
Make smart delivery choices
A layered approach and modern tech will help stop package theft, but you can also stay a step ahead by making smarter delivery choices. For example:
- Request a signature. This is a great choice, particularly for high-value items. Your orders will never be left out in the open.
- Provide instructions. Tell drivers where you would like boxes dropped off and keep them out of sight.
- Redirect packages. Ship higher-value deliveries to an alternate location, like your place of work or a secure pickup locker. Providers like Amazon have secure lockers in Fort Collins where you can pick up your orders.
Prevent package theft in Fort Collins with a Vivint smart home
Don’t let missing packages ruin your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your parcels in the right hands. You’ll enjoy remote access, smart home automation, and video cameras that actively deter crime. Communicate with delivery drivers or even open your garage for delivery drop-offs, even when you’re away. Call (970) 703-0718 today to learn more and schedule your smart home installation in Fort Collins.