Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is staggering. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves made off with $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. All told, approximately 25% of Americans have had a package taken at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still an issue, most of all during the busy holiday season, but there’s no reason you have to be a victim. Explore how a layered plan and the latest smart home security can keep your deliveries protected in Myrtle Beach.

Layered protection keeps Myrtle Beach porch pirates away

Holidays are already stressful enough with scheduling conflicts, travel delays, overextended budgets, and inlaws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you want is a stolen package to push you over the edge. So, how can you stop it? Adding a doorbell camera is a smart idea, but there’s more to preventing porch theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Security cameras around your home’s perimeter. Let prowlers know they’re being watched.
• Security signs. It’s low-tech but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A burst of light is usually enough to frighten criminals off. But keep in mind, porch theft commonly occurs during daylight hours.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not only about the security tech you have in place. Neighbors should watch out for each other and take note of suspicious behavior. 

Modern tech improves your defense

Home security is always evolving. You can take advantage of these advancements to help prevent porch theft at your Myrtle Beach property. Here are a few worth installing:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way communication. Give instructions to delivery drivers or determine why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart locks and home automation. Today’s home security systems can be operated from wherever you are. Unlock your front door, have a delivery person put packages inside, and then lock or close the entrance once they’re done. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You’ll come across doorbell and exterior cameras that turn on a light display or sounds if a prowler gets too close. 

Make good delivery decisions

A layered strategy and modern technology will help curtail package theft, but you can also help yourself by making smarter delivery choices. To illustrate:

• Require a signature. This is a wise choice, specifically for higher value goods. Your packages will never be left out in the open. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Tell couriers where you would like boxes placed and keep them hidden from view.
• Reroute packages. Deliver higher-value deliveries to another location, like your workplace or a self-service locker. Carriers like Amazon have secure lockers in Myrtle Beach where you can pick up deliveries.

Prevent package theft in Myrtle Beach with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow filched packages to ruin your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your packages safe. You’ll appreciate having remote access, custom home automation, and video cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Communicate with delivery drivers or even unlock your front door for deliveries, regardless of your location. Call (843) 483-5033 today to learn more and schedule your smart home installation in Myrtle Beach.