Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are eye-opening. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves swiped $8.2 billion in online delivery orders in 2025. All told, approximately 25% of Americans have had a package taken at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still a threat, particularly during the busy holiday season, but there’s no reason you need to be a victim. See how a layered plan and modern smart home security can keep your parcels secure in Bakersfield.

A layered defense keeps Bakersfield package thieves away

Holidays are stressful enough with in-laws who overstay their welcome, overextended budgets, scheduling headaches, and travel chaos. The last thing you need is a stolen package to send you over the edge. So, how can you stop it from happening? Installing a video doorbell is a good first step, but there’s more to the puzzle of stopping porch pirates. 

A layered defense can include:

• Surveillance cameras covering your home’s perimeter. Let trespassers know they’re being recorded.
• Home security signs and decals. It’s low-tech but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A burst of light is often enough to send thieves away. But don’t forget, porch theft occurs at any time of day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not just about the security tech you have in place. Neighbors should watch out for one another and flag questionable behavior. 

Today’s tech improves your security

Home security is always evolving. You can take advantage of these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Bakersfield property. Here are several worth installing:

• Video doorbells with two-way talk. Give delivery drivers instructions or determine why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart door locks and home automation. Modern home security systems can be managed remotely. Unlock your front door, let the courier put parcels inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they leave. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You can now find doorbell and outdoor cameras that activate a light display or sounds if a lurker gets too close. 

Make smart delivery choices

A layered defense and modern devices will help curtail package theft, but you can also help yourself by selecting optional delivery services. To illustrate:

• Require a signature. This is a wise choice, specifically for high-value items. Your orders will never be left unattended. 
• Provide instructions. Tell couriers where you would like boxes placed and keep them out of sight.
• Change the delivery address. Ship higher-value deliveries to somewhere else, like your workplace or a secure pickup locker. Providers like Amazon offer secure lockers in Bakersfield where you can pick up your orders.

Stop package theft in Bakersfield with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow pilfered packages to dampen your holiday cheer. A modern Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your packages in the right hands. You’ll appreciate having remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance devices that proactively deter crime. Speak with delivery drivers or even unlock your door for package drop-offs, even when you’re away. Call (661) 732-2557 today to learn more and book your smart home installation in Bakersfield.