Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are eye-opening. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves made off with $8.2 billion worth of online orders in 2025. In all, one in four Americans has been a victim of this crime at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still a problem, particularly during the busy holiday season, but you don't need to be a victim! See how a layered approach and current smart home technology can keep your parcels safe in Chico.

Layered security keeps Chico package bandits away

Holidays are already a challenge with scheduling conflicts, travel nightmares, budgets stretched to the limit, and inlaws who stay too long. The last thing you want is a stolen package to send you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it from happening? Installing a doorbell camera is a smart idea, but there’s more to the puzzle of preventing porch theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Video cameras along your home’s border. Let trespassers know they’re being watched.
• Home security signs. It’s old-school but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A sudden burst of light is usually enough to frighten thieves off. But keep in mind, porch theft happens at all times of day.
• Knowing your neighbors. It’s not just about the security tech you own. Neighbors can watch out for one another and take note of suspicious behavior. 

Today’s technology improves your protection

Home security is always evolving. You can take advantage of these advancements to stop porch theft at your Chico home. Consider these options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way audio. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or find out why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart locks and home automation. Today’s home security can be controlled remotely. Unlock your front door, have a delivery person put parcels inside, and then secure the entrance once they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. You’ll come across outdoor and doorbell cameras that trigger a light display or audible alerts if someone comes too close. 

Make smart delivery choices

A layered defense and modern tech will help curtail package theft, but you can also be proactive and make smarter delivery decisions. For example:

• Require a signature. This is a smart choice, especially for high-value items. Your packages will never be left sitting outside. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Let drivers know where you want packages placed and keep them hidden from view.
• Reroute packages. Ship higher-value deliveries to an alternate location, like your place of work or a self-service storage locker. Carriers like Amazon have secure lockers in Chico where you can retrieve your packages.

Prevent package theft in Chico with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let pilfered packages spoil your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your deliveries protected. You’ll benefit from remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance cameras that proactively deter crime. Talk to delivery drivers or even unlock your front door for deliveries, even when you’re not home. Call (530) 460-6338 today to find out more and book your home security installation in Chico.