Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are staggering. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves made off with $8.2 billion in online delivery orders in 2025. All told, around 25% of Americans have been a victim of this crime at some time in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still an issue, particularly during the holidays, but there’s no reason you have to be a victim. See how a layered plan and the latest smart home security can keep your packages safe in Milwaukee.

Layered protection keeps Milwaukee package bandits away

Holidays are stressful enough with travel nightmares, scheduling headaches, budgets stretched to the limit, and in-laws who stay too long. The last thing you need is a missing delivery to push you over the top. So, how do you prevent it from happening? Installing a video doorbell is a solid first step, but there’s a lot more to stopping porch theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Security cameras around your home’s perimeter. Let trespassers know they’re being recorded.
• Security signs and decals. It’s old-school but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A burst of light is usually enough to send thieves away. But don’t forget, porch theft takes place at any time of day.
• Knowing your neighbors. It’s not just about what devices you have in place. Neighbors can keep an eye out for each other and flag questionable behavior. 

Current tech improves your defense

Home security keeps evolving. You can leverage these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Milwaukee property. Here are a few worth considering:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way talk. Give instructions to delivery drivers or find out why someone’s at your door.
• Smart door locks and home automation. Today’s home security can be operated from a distance. Unlock your front door or open your garage, let the courier put parcels inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. You can now find doorbell and exterior cameras that activate a light display or audible alerts if a prowler gets too close. 

Make smarter delivery decisions

A layered approach and modern tech will help stop package theft, but you can also help yourself by picking optional delivery services. For example:

• Require a signature. This is a smart choice, especially for higher value goods. Deliveries will never be left unattended. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Tell couriers where you want boxes dropped off and keep them hidden from view.
• Redirect packages. Send more expensive deliveries to somewhere else, like your workplace or a self-service locker. Carriers like Amazon have secure lockers in Milwaukee where you can grab deliveries.

Prevent package theft in Milwaukee with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow stolen packages to dampen your holiday cheer. A modern Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your deliveries safe. You’ll benefit from remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance cameras that actively deter crime. Speak with couriers or even open your garage for delivery drop-offs, no matter your location. Call (414) 409-5889 today to find out more and arrange your home security installation in Milwaukee.