Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are staggering. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. In all, around 25% of Americans have been a victim of this crime at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a threat, most of all during the holiday season, but you don't have to be a victim! Explore how a layered plan and current smart home security can keep your deliveries safe in McAllen.

Layered protection keeps McAllen porch pirates away

Holidays are already stressful enough with scheduling headaches, travel chaos, budgets stretched to the limit, and inlaws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you need is a stolen package to push you over the top. So, what can you do to stop it taking place? Ordering a doorbell camera is a smart idea, but there’s more to preventing porch theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Surveillance cameras along your home’s border. Let trespassers know someone’s watching.
• Home security signs and decals. It’s old-school but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A sudden burst of light is typically enough to frighten prowlers off. But keep in mind, porch theft commonly occurs during daylight hours.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not just about the security devices you have in place. Neighbors should keep an eye out for one another and flag unusual behavior. 

Modern tech improves your defense

Home security keeps evolving. You can take advantage of these advancements to stop porch theft at your McAllen property. Consider the following options:

• Video doorbells with two-way audio. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or find out why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart door locks and custom automation. Modern home security systems can be controlled remotely. Unlock your front door or open your garage, tell the courier put deliveries inside, and then secure the entrance once they’re done. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. You can now find outdoor and doorbell cameras that turn on a bright light or sounds if a prowler gets too close. 

Make good delivery decisions

A layered defense and modern technology will help prevent package theft, but you can also help yourself by making smarter delivery choices. For example:

• Demand a signature. This is a wise choice, especially for higher value goods. Your orders will never be left sitting outside. 
• Give instructions. Tell couriers where you would like boxes dropped off and keep them hidden from view.
• Reroute packages. Deliver higher-value deliveries to somewhere else, like your workplace or a self-service locker. Carriers like Amazon provide secure lockers in McAllen where you can pick up your orders.

Halt package theft in McAllen with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow pilfered packages to ruin your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your parcels safe. You’ll benefit from remote access, custom home automation, and video cameras that proactively deter crime. Talk to couriers or even unlock your front door for package drop-offs, regardless of your location. Place a call to (956) 303-1646 today to find out more and book your smart home installation in McAllen.