Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are stunning. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves swiped $8.2 billion in online purchases in 2025. In all, approximately 25% of Americans have had a package stolen at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still an issue, particularly during the holidays, but you don't have to be a victim! Explore how a layered plan and modern smart home security can keep your deliveries safe in Chattanooga.

A layered defense keeps Chattanooga package thieves away

Holidays are already a challenge with in-laws who test your nerves, budgets stretched to the limit, packed calendars, and travel chaos. The last thing you want is a missing delivery to send you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it from happening? Ordering a doorbell camera is a good first step, but there’s a lot more to stopping porch pirates. 

A layered defense can include:

• Surveillance cameras along your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know they’re being watched.
• Home security signage. It’s old-school but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A burst of light is usually enough to send thieves away. Just remember, porch theft commonly occurs during the day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not merely about what devices you have. Neighbors can look out for one another and flag questionable behavior. 

Current technology boosts your protection

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

• Video doorbells with two-way audio. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or determine why someone’s at your door.
• Smart door locks and custom automation. Modern home security can be controlled remotely. Open your garage, let the delivery driver put parcels inside, and then secure the entrance when they’re done. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. You can now find outside and doorbell cameras that activate a bright light or audible alerts if a lurker ventures too close. 

Make good delivery choices

A layered approach and modern technology will help curtail package theft, but you can also be proactive and make smarter delivery choices. For instance:

• Demand a signature. This is a wise choice, especially for higher value items. Your packages will never be left sitting outside. 
• Give instructions. Tell drivers where you would like parcels placed and keep them hidden from view.
• Redirect packages. Deliver higher-dollar deliveries to an alternate location, like your office or a secure pickup locker. Carriers like Amazon have secure lockers in Chattanooga where you can pick up deliveries.

Halt package theft in Chattanooga with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow filched packages to ruin your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your packages in the right hands. You’ll enjoy remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance devices that help stop crime before it happens. Speak with delivery drivers or even open your garage for deliveries, no matter your location. Place a call to (423) 561-9767 today to find out more and arrange your smart home installation in Chattanooga.