Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are staggering. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves swiped $8.2 billion in online delivery orders in 2025. Overall, one in four Americans has had a package stolen at some point in their lives.
Porch pirates are clearly still an issue, particularly during the holidays, but that doesn’t mean you need to be a victim. Explore how a layered strategy and current smart home technology can keep your parcels safe in Kennewick.
Layered protection keeps Kennewick porch pirates away
Holidays are already a challenge with travel nightmares, scheduling conflicts, stretched-out budgets, and in-laws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you want is a pilfered package to send you over the top. So, how do you prevent it from happening? Installing a doorbell camera is a solid opening move, but there’s more to preventing porch theft.
A layered defense can include:
- Security cameras around your home’s border. Let trespassers know someone’s watching.
- Home security signs and decals. It’s low-tech but still a proven deterrent.
- Motion-activated lights. A flash of light is often enough to scare prowlers off. But don’t forget, porch theft takes place at all times of day.
- Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not merely about what devices you have. Neighbors should look out for one another and report unusual behavior.
Today’s tech strengthens your protection
Home security is always evolving. You can leverage these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Kennewick property. Here are some worth installing:
- Doorbell cameras with two-way audio. Give instructions to delivery drivers or find out why someone’s on your porch.
- Smart door locks and automation. Modern home security can be managed from wherever you are. Unlock your front door, have a delivery person put parcels inside, and then secure the entrance when they’re done.
- Surveillance with active deterrence. There are exterior and doorbell cameras that turn on a bright light or audible alerts if a prowler ventures too close.
Make smarter delivery decisions
A layered strategy and modern technology will help stop package theft, but you can also help yourself by selecting optional delivery services. For example:
- Require a signature. This is a smart choice, especially for more expensive goods. Your orders will never be left out in the open.
- Give instructions. Tell drivers where you want packages 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 storage locker. Carriers like Amazon provide secure lockers in Kennewick where you can retrieve your packages.
Stop package theft in Kennewick with a Vivint smart home
Don’t let stolen packages dampen your holiday cheer. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your parcels safe. You’ll benefit from remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance devices that help stop crime before it happens. Speak with couriers or even unlock your front door for delivery drop-offs, even when you’re away. Place a call to (509) 794-3375 today to learn more and book your home security installation in Kennewick.