Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is eye-opening. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves swiped $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. In all, around 25% of Americans have been a victim of package theft at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still an issue, particularly during the busy holiday season, but that doesn’t mean you have to be a victim. See how a layered plan and current smart home security can keep your packages secure in Bend.

A layered defense keeps Bend porch pirates away

Holidays are stressful enough with in-laws who test your nerves, stretched-out budgets, scheduling headaches, and travel nightmares. The last thing you want is a pilfered package to push you over the top. So, what can you do to stop it taking place? Adding a doorbell camera is a good first step, but there’s a lot more to preventing porch theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Surveillance cameras along your home’s perimeter. Let trespassers know they’re being watched.
• Home security signs. It’s simple but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A burst of light is often enough to send prowlers away. But don’t forget, porch theft commonly happens during the day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not only about what devices you have. Neighbors can look out for each other and report questionable behavior. 

Current tech improves your protection

Home security is always evolving. You can take advantage of these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Bend property. Here are a few worth installing:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way communication. Give delivery drivers instructions or find out why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart locks and custom automation. Modern home security can be controlled remotely. Open your garage, let the courier put deliveries inside, and then secure the entrance when they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. You can now find doorbell and exterior cameras that activate a bright light or sounds if someone comes too close. 

Make good delivery choices

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

• Demand a signature. This is a great choice, especially for high-value items. Your packages will never be left sitting outside. 
• Provide instructions. Tell drivers where you want boxes dropped off and keep them out of sight.
• Reroute packages. Send higher-value deliveries to another location, like your place of work or a self-service storage locker. Carriers like Amazon provide secure lockers in Bend where you can grab your orders.

Halt package theft in Bend with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow stolen packages to ruin your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your packages in the right hands. You’ll benefit from remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Speak with delivery drivers or even open your garage for delivery drop-offs, even when you’re not there. Place a call to (541) 327-4968 today to find out more and book your smart home installation in Bend.