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 stole $8.2 billion worth of online orders in 2025. Overall, one in four Americans has had a package taken at some time in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still a problem, particularly during the busy holiday season, but there’s no reason you have to be targeted. Discover how a layered plan and current smart home technology can keep your parcels protected in Bozeman.

Layered protection keeps Bozeman package thieves away

Holidays are stressful enough with in-laws who stay too long, budgets stretched to the limit, packed calendars, and travel chaos. The last thing you want is a pilfered package to push you over the edge. So, how do you prevent it from happening? Installing a doorbell camera is a solid idea, but there’s more to the puzzle of preventing porch pirates. 

A layered approach can include:

• Security cameras around your home’s perimeter. Let trespassers know they’re being watched.
• Security signage. It’s old-school but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A flash of light is typically enough to scare prowlers off. Just remember, porch theft occurs at any time of day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not only about the security tech you have. Neighbors should look out for one another and flag suspicious behavior. 

Modern technology boosts your security

Home security keeps evolving. You can take advantage of these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Bozeman home. Consider the following options:

• Video doorbells with two-way communication. Give instructions to delivery drivers or find out why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart door locks and automation. Modern home security can be managed remotely. Open your garage, have a courier put deliveries inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they’re done. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You can now find doorbell and outdoor cameras that trigger warning lights or sounds if a prowler gets too close. 

Make smarter delivery decisions

A layered strategy and modern technology will help stop package theft, but you can also stay a step ahead by making smarter delivery decisions. For example:

• Request a signature. This is a smart choice, especially for high-value items. Deliveries will never be left out in the open. 
• Provide instructions. Let drivers know where you would like parcels dropped off and keep them hidden from view.
• Change the delivery address. Deliver higher-value deliveries to another location, like your office or a secure pickup locker. Carriers like Amazon offer secure lockers in Bozeman where you can retrieve deliveries.

Stop package theft in Bozeman with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow pilfered packages to spoil your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your deliveries in the right hands. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and video cameras that proactively deter crime. Communicate with delivery drivers or even unlock your door for delivery drop-offs, even when you’re not there. Call (406) 926-0255 today to learn more and schedule your home security installation in Bozeman.