Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is stunning. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves made off with $8.2 billion in online purchases in 2025. Overall, around 25% of Americans have had a package pilfered at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still a threat, especially during the holidays, but you don't have to be a victim! Discover how a layered strategy and current smart home technology can keep your packages safe in Oklahoma City.

A layered defense keeps Oklahoma City porch pirates away

Holidays are already stressful enough with travel nightmares, scheduling conflicts, overextended budgets, and in-laws who test your nerves. The last thing you want is a missing delivery to send you over the top. So, how do you prevent it from happening? Installing a doorbell camera is a solid first step, but there’s more to the puzzle of deterring porch theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Surveillance cameras along your home’s perimeter. Let trespassers know someone’s watching.
• Security signs and decals. It’s simple but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A burst of light is often enough to frighten criminals off. But keep in mind, porch theft commonly happens during the day.
• Knowing your neighbors. It’s not only about what devices you have. Neighbors can keep an eye out for each other and flag unusual behavior. 

Current technology improves your protection

Home security continues to evolve. You can use these advancements to help prevent porch theft at your Oklahoma City property. Here are a few to consider:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way talk. Give instructions to delivery drivers or determine why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart door locks and custom automation. Modern home security can be operated from wherever you are. Unlock your front door, have a delivery driver put packages inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. There are outside and doorbell cameras that activate warning lights or audible alerts if someone ventures too close. 

Make smart delivery choices

A layered strategy and modern tech will help curtail package theft, but you can also help yourself by making smarter delivery decisions. To illustrate:

• Demand a signature. This is a wise choice, particularly for higher value goods. Deliveries will never be left out in the open. 
• Provide instructions. Tell couriers where you would like packages left and keep them out of sight.
• Reroute packages. Deliver higher-dollar deliveries to an alternate location, like your office or a secure pickup locker. Providers like Amazon offer secure lockers in Oklahoma City where you can pick up your orders.

Stop package theft in Oklahoma City with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let pilfered packages ruin your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your deliveries protected. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance cameras that proactively deter crime. Talk to couriers or even open your garage for package drop-offs, regardless of where you are. Contact (405) 777-7501 today to find out more and arrange your home security installation in Oklahoma City.