Prevent Package Theft in 2026 | Smart Doorbell & Camera Security | KPS Alarms

KPS Alarms Feb 19, 2026 10:15:00 AM

If you have ever walked up to your front door expecting a delivery and found nothing there, you know how frustrating it can feel. It is not just the cost of the item. It is the time you spent ordering it, the hassle of reporting it, and the uneasy feeling that someone was close enough to your home to take it.

Package theft is no longer limited to the holidays. It happens year-round, often in broad daylight, and it is becoming more common in many areas. The good news is you do not need to turn your home into a fortress or live with constant notifications. A few smart upgrades and small habit changes can make your entry look less inviting to opportunists while helping you stay informed when something matters.

The most effective approach is a front-door plan that detects activity early, discourages theft, and captures clear video if someone tries something.

Why package theft keeps happening even with cameras

Many homes have a camera but still experience theft because the setup is built for recording, not prevention. Common gaps include a camera angle that misses the package drop zone, alerts that are too noisy or not enabled, and lighting that is too dim to capture usable detail at night. Sometimes the delivery area is also shielded from view, giving someone a quick in-and-out route.

Build a front-door security plan that works

A strong plan focuses on coverage, alerts, and deterrence.

Start with the camera view. Many doorbell cameras are aimed at faces, which is helpful, but packages are often left lower on the step. Your camera should clearly see the spot where deliveries land and the path a person uses to approach your door. In some homes, adding a second camera that covers the approach angle, such as a driveway or front walkway, helps reduce blind spots and improves the odds of getting clear footage.

Next, set alerts so they are meaningful. The goal is not constant notifications. The goal is getting alerted when activity matters, especially during your usual delivery hours. If your system supports activity zones, keep them tight around the walkway and drop area to cut down on noise from cars, pets, and sidewalk traffic.

Deterrence matters, and it does not have to be dramatic. Most thieves want an easy target. When the entry looks watched and well-lit, many will move on. Visible camera placement, simple recording signage, and motion-activated lighting can increase perceived risk before someone reaches the package.

Lighting is one of the simplest upgrades with a strong payoff. A brighter entry improves video quality and reduces shadows that hide faces and clothing. Motion lighting also draws attention to movement near your door, which can discourage theft before it happens. Make sure lights are positioned so they illuminate the person rather than shining directly into the camera lens, since glare can reduce clarity.

Delivery habits can reduce opportunity without changing your life. For high-value items, consider signatures required when possible. If you have flexible options, package lockers and pickup points can eliminate doorstep risk. Some households also use lockable parcel boxes for frequent deliveries.

If theft is happening repeatedly in your area, think about reliability. A setup that keeps working through internet hiccups, power interruptions, or router issues is more likely to be useful when you actually need it. Even small steps, like confirming your camera stays online and your notifications are enabled, can prevent the common “it recorded but I never knew” problem.

A Quick “Porch Pirate” Checklist

If you want to reduce package theft this month, start here:

Doorbell or camera view includes the package drop zone
The walkway approach is covered
Motion lighting is installed and aimed correctly
Alerts are set to delivery hours (and zones are tight)
Signage is visible
High-value deliveries use signature/locker options.

Before you set anything up

Does a doorbell camera stop package theft by itself?
It can help, but it works best when the camera clearly shows the drop zone, lighting is strong enough for detail, and alerts are set up to notify you at the right times.

Where should cameras be placed to catch porch pirates?
Cover the delivery spot and the approach route. A second angle aimed at the walkway or driveway can reduce blind spots and improve identification.

Is it better to DIY or professionally install?
DIY can work for basic coverage. Professional installation can help when you want cleaner placement, fewer blind spots, and a more reliable setup overall.

Want help setting up a smarter front door?

If you want professional help choosing camera placement, improving coverage, and setting up alerts that fit your routine, contact KPS Alarms for a quote or consultation.