Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are staggering. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves swiped $8.2 billion worth of online orders in 2025. Overall, around 25% of Americans have had a package pilfered at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a threat, most of all during the holiday season, but you don't need to be a victim! Discover how a layered approach and the latest smart home tech can keep your packages safe in Omaha.

Layered security keeps Omaha porch pirates away

Holidays are already stressful enough with scheduling headaches, travel delays, budgets stretched to the limit, and inlaws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you want is a missing delivery to push you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it? Ordering a doorbell camera is a solid first step, but there’s more to the puzzle of preventing package theft. 

A layered approach can include:

• Security cameras covering your home’s perimeter. Let trespassers know they’re being watched.
• Security signage. It’s low-tech but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A sudden burst of light is usually enough to send criminals away. Just remember, porch theft commonly happens during the day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not just about what devices you own. Neighbors should keep an eye out for one another and take note of unusual behavior. 

Today’s technology boosts your defense

Home security keeps evolving. You can leverage these advancements to stop porch theft at your Omaha home. Consider the following options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way talk. Give instructions to delivery drivers or determine why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart door locks and home automation. Modern home security systems can be operated from a distance. Open your garage, have a delivery person put packages inside, and then lock or close the entrance when they’re done. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You can now find outdoor and doorbell cameras that turn on a bright light or audible alerts if a lurker gets too close. 

Make smart delivery decisions

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

• Demand a signature. This is a great choice, specifically for higher value items. Your orders will never be left sitting outside. 
• Give instructions. Tell drivers where you want packages left and keep them out of view.
• Change the delivery address. Deliver more expensive deliveries to somewhere else, like your office or a secure pickup locker. Companies like Amazon offer secure lockers in Omaha where you can pick up deliveries.

Halt package theft in Omaha with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let pilfered packages dampen your holiday cheer. An advanced Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your deliveries safe. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance devices that proactively deter crime. Talk to delivery drivers or even unlock your front door for package drop-offs, even when you’re not there. Call (402) 925-9471 today to find out more and arrange your smart home installation in Omaha.