Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are eye-opening. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves swiped $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. In all, around 25% of Americans have had a package stolen at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still an issue, particularly during the holiday season, but there’s no reason you need to be a victim. Discover how a layered strategy and modern smart home tech can keep your packages protected in Medford.

A layered defense keeps Medford porch pirates away

Holidays are already stressful enough with travel delays, scheduling conflicts, overextended budgets, and in-laws who stay too long. The last thing you need is a stolen package to send you over the edge. So, how can you stop it from happening? Adding a video doorbell is a solid opening move, but there’s a lot more to deterring porch pirates. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Video cameras covering your home’s border. Let thieves know they’re being watched.
• Home security signs. It’s old-school but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A flash of light is typically enough to send prowlers away. Just remember, porch theft happens at all hours.
• Knowing your neighbors. It’s not just about what devices you have in place. Neighbors should watch out for one another and report unusual behavior. 

Current tech boosts your protection

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

• Doorbell cameras with two-way communication. Give delivery drivers instructions or determine why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart locks and automation. Today’s home security systems can be controlled from wherever you are. Open your garage, let the delivery person put deliveries inside, and then lock or close the entrance when they’re done. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. There are outdoor and doorbell cameras that activate a bright light or sounds if someone gets too close. 

Make smarter delivery decisions

A layered approach and modern tech will help prevent package theft, but you can also help yourself by choosing optional delivery services. For instance:

• Demand a signature. This is a smart choice, specifically for higher value items. Deliveries will never be left sitting outside. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Let drivers know where you want boxes dropped off and keep them out of view.
• Redirect packages. Ship higher-dollar deliveries to an alternate location, like your office or a self-service storage locker. Companies like Amazon provide secure lockers in Medford where you can pick up deliveries.

Prevent package theft in Medford with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow pilfered packages to spoil your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your parcels protected. You’ll benefit from remote access, smart home automation, and video cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Communicate with couriers or even open your garage for deliveries, no matter where you are. Contact (541) 697-3284 today to find out more and schedule your home security installation in Medford.