Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are stunning. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion worth of online delivery orders in 2025. In all, around 25% of Americans have been a victim of package theft at some time in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a threat, particularly during the busy holiday season, but that doesn’t mean you need to be a victim. Discover how a layered plan and current smart home technology can keep your packages secure in Fargo.

Layered security keeps Fargo package bandits away

Holidays are already a challenge with travel chaos, packed calendars, budgets stretched to the limit, and in-laws who stay too long. The last thing you want is a pilfered package to send you over the edge. So, how can you stop it? Adding a doorbell camera is a good first step, but there’s more to stopping porch theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Video cameras along your home’s border. Let prowlers know they’re being recorded.
• Security signage. It’s low-tech but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A sudden burst of light is typically enough to scare thieves off. Just remember, porch theft commonly takes place during the day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not only about what devices you own. Neighbors can look out for one another and report questionable behavior. 

Current technology boosts your defense

Home security continues to evolve. You can use these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Fargo property. Here are some worth considering:

• Video doorbells with two-way talk. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or ask why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart door locks and automation. Modern home security systems can be managed remotely. Unlock your front door or open your garage, have a delivery person put deliveries inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they leave. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. You can now find doorbell and exterior cameras that activate a light display or sounds if a lurker comes too close. 

Make smarter delivery choices

A layered strategy and modern devices will help curtail package theft, but you can also help yourself by selecting optional delivery services. For instance:

• Demand a signature. This is a smart choice, particularly for higher value goods. Your packages will never be left out in the open. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Let drivers know where you would like packages dropped off and keep them out of sight.
• Redirect packages. Deliver higher-dollar deliveries to another location, like your office or a secure pickup locker. Companies like Amazon offer secure lockers in Fargo where you can pick up your orders.

Halt package theft in Fargo with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let stolen packages spoil your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will ease your 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 delivery drop-offs, even when you’re away. Call (701) 699-4489 today to find out more and arrange your smart home installation in Fargo.