Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are staggering. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves made off with $8.2 billion worth of online purchases 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, especially during the busy holiday season, but you don't have to be a victim! See how a layered plan and current smart home tech can keep your packages safe in Newburgh.

Layered protection keeps Newburgh porch pirates away

Holidays are stressful enough with travel chaos, packed calendars, overextended budgets, and in-laws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you need is a missing delivery to push you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it? Installing a video doorbell is a solid opening move, but there’s a lot more to preventing package theft. 

A layered approach can include:

• Video cameras around your home’s border. Let thieves know they’re being recorded.
• Security signage. It’s old-school but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A burst of light is often enough to send prowlers away. But keep in mind, porch theft commonly happens in broad daylight.
• Knowing your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security devices you own. Neighbors can look out for each other and flag suspicious behavior. 

Current technology strengthens your security

Home security is always evolving. You can take advantage of these advancements to help prevent porch theft at your Newburgh property. Consider the following options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way communication. Give instructions to delivery drivers or find out why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart door locks and home automation. Today’s home security systems can be managed from wherever you are. Unlock your front door or open your garage, tell the delivery person put parcels inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they leave. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. You’ll come across doorbell and outdoor cameras that trigger a bright light or sounds if a prowler ventures too close. 

Make smarter delivery decisions

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

• Request a signature. This is a smart choice, particularly for more expensive goods. Your packages will never be left out in the open. 
• Give instructions. Let drivers know where you would like parcels 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 locker. Carriers like Amazon offer secure lockers in Newburgh where you can retrieve your orders.

Stop package theft in Newburgh with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let missing packages spoil your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your deliveries in the right hands. You’ll enjoy remote access, custom home automation, and video cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Communicate with delivery drivers or even open your garage for package drop-offs, even when you’re not there. Place a call to (845) 640-5419 today to find out more and arrange your home security installation in Newburgh.