Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are stunning. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves swiped $8.2 billion worth of online delivery orders in 2025. All told, approximately 25% of Americans have been a victim of package theft at some time in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still an issue, particularly during the busy holiday season, but you don't have to be a victim! See how a layered approach and the latest smart home technology can keep your parcels secure in Missoula.

Layered security keeps Missoula package thieves away

Holidays are already a challenge with scheduling headaches, travel delays, budgets stretched to the limit, and inlaws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you want is a pilfered package to send you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it? Ordering a video doorbell is a smart opening move, but there’s more to stopping package theft. 

A layered approach can include:

• Surveillance cameras around your home’s border. Let trespassers know someone’s watching.
• Security signs. It’s simple but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A flash of light is typically enough to send prowlers running. But don’t forget, porch theft commonly occurs during daylight hours.
• Knowing your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security devices you own. Neighbors can keep an eye out for one another and flag unusual behavior. 

Modern tech improves your protection

Home security continues to evolve. You can leverage these advancements to help prevent porch theft at your Missoula home. Here are a few worth considering:

• Video doorbells with two-way communication. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or find out why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart locks and home automation. Today’s home security systems can be operated from a distance. Unlock your front door or open your garage, tell the delivery driver put packages inside, and then lock or close the entrance when they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. There are outside and doorbell cameras that trigger a bright light or sounds if someone gets too close. 

Make good delivery decisions

A layered defense and modern tech will help prevent package theft, but you can also stay a step ahead by making smarter delivery choices. For example:

• Require a signature. This is a smart choice, specifically for more expensive goods. Deliveries will never be left out in the open. 
• Provide instructions. Tell couriers where you would like parcels placed and keep them hidden from view.
• Reroute packages. Deliver higher-value deliveries to somewhere else, like your place of work or a self-service storage locker. Carriers like Amazon offer secure lockers in Missoula where you can pick up your orders.

Prevent package theft in Missoula with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow filched packages to spoil your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your deliveries protected. You’ll benefit from remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance devices that actively deter crime. Speak with couriers or even open your garage for deliveries, no matter your location. Place a call to (406) 926-0627 today to learn more and arrange your home security installation in Missoula.