Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are staggering. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves swiped $8.2 billion worth of online delivery orders in 2025. All told, one in four Americans has had a package pilfered at some time in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still a threat, most of all during the busy holiday season, but there’s no reason you have to be a victim. Discover how a layered approach and modern smart home tech can keep your deliveries safe in Santa Fe.

Layered protection keeps Santa Fe package bandits away

Holidays are already stressful enough with in-laws who test your nerves, overextended budgets, scheduling conflicts, and travel delays. The last thing you want is a stolen package to push you over the top. So, how do you prevent it from happening? Installing a doorbell camera is a smart opening move, but there’s more to the puzzle of stopping porch pirates. 

A layered approach can include:

• Video cameras covering your home’s border. Let thieves know someone’s watching.
• Security signs and decals. It’s simple but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A burst of light is often enough to send criminals running. Just remember, porch theft commonly happens during daylight hours.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not only about what devices you own. Neighbors should watch out for each other and take note of unusual behavior. 

Current technology strengthens your defense

Home security is always evolving. You can leverage these advancements to help prevent porch theft at your Santa Fe property. Here are a few worth considering:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way audio. Give instructions to delivery drivers or determine why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart door locks and automation. Today’s home security can be operated from a distance. Open your garage, have a delivery driver put packages inside, and then secure the entrance once they’re done. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You’ll come across doorbell and outdoor cameras that turn on a light display or audible alerts if a lurker ventures too close. 

Make smart delivery choices

A layered strategy and modern tech will help stop package theft, but you can also be proactive and make smarter delivery decisions. For instance:

• Demand a signature. This is a great choice, especially for high-value items. Your packages will never be left sitting outside. 
• Give instructions. Tell couriers where you want boxes left and keep them out of view.
• Change the delivery address. Ship higher-dollar deliveries to somewhere else, like your place of work or a secure pickup locker. Providers like Amazon offer secure lockers in Santa Fe where you can pick up your packages.

Prevent package theft in Santa Fe with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let stolen 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 appreciate having remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance devices that help stop crime before it happens. Communicate with couriers or even unlock your door for package drop-offs, even when you’re not home. Place a call to (505) 605-2552 today to find out more and book your smart home installation in Santa Fe.