Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is staggering. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves made off with $8.2 billion in online delivery orders in 2025. Overall, around 25% of Americans have had a package taken at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still a problem, especially during the holiday season, but you don't need to be a victim! Discover how a layered approach and current smart home security can keep your packages secure in Fort Lauderdale.

Layered security keeps Fort Lauderdale package thieves away

Holidays are already stressful enough with travel chaos, scheduling headaches, overextended budgets, and in-laws who stay too long. The last thing you need is a stolen package to push you over the top. So, how do you prevent it? Ordering a doorbell camera is a solid idea, but there’s more to deterring porch pirates. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Security cameras along your home’s perimeter. Let trespassers know someone’s watching.
• Security signage. It’s old-school but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A sudden burst of light is usually enough to send criminals away. But keep in mind, porch theft commonly occurs during daylight hours.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security devices you have in place. Neighbors should keep an eye out for one another and take note of unusual behavior. 

Today’s technology improves your defense

Home security is always evolving. You can use these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Fort Lauderdale home. Consider the following options:

• Video doorbells with two-way audio. Give delivery drivers instructions or find out why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart locks and home automation. Modern home security can be operated from wherever you are. Unlock your front door or open your garage, let the delivery driver put parcels inside, and then secure the entrance when they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. You can now find doorbell and exterior cameras that activate warning lights or audible alerts if a prowler comes too close. 

Make smarter delivery decisions

A layered defense and modern technology will help stop package theft, but you can also help yourself by choosing optional delivery services. For instance:

• Request a signature. This is a great choice, specifically for more expensive items. Your orders will never be left sitting outside. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Tell couriers where you would like parcels placed and keep them out of view.
• Reroute packages. Send more expensive deliveries to another location, like your workplace or a secure pickup locker. Carriers like Amazon have secure lockers in Fort Lauderdale where you can pick up deliveries.

Stop package theft in Fort Lauderdale with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let missing packages ruin your holiday season. An advanced Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your deliveries protected. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Speak with delivery drivers or even unlock your front door for delivery drop-offs, even when you’re not there. Contact (954) 287-0437 today to learn more and arrange your home security installation in Fort Lauderdale.