Have you been shopping online at work this week? 

We're not judging. It's the season for giving, and it's the easy way to buy gifts. 

But while the "buying" part is easy nowadays, the "delivery" part is not. It's stressful. If you're not willing and able to stay home for a valuable package, it gets left on your doorstep; a prime target for fast-working package thieves. 

This year, though, there's a smart solution called smart home security. It lets you secure a delivered package in three easy steps—even when you're away from home—using your Alarm.com app. 

Here's how it works. 

Step 1: Verify the Visitor 

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You'll know someone's at the door when the delivery person rings your doorbell camera. This triggers an alert on your smartphone, from which you can open a video screen to see who's there. 

Tap the microphone icon on your app's doorbell camera screen to say hello and start a two-way conversation. 

2: Direct the Delivery 

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Once you've verified the delivery person, tell them you'll give them access. Ask them to leave the package inside the door, and to close the door behind them. 

Now, use your Alarm.com app to give access. First, disarm your security system. Then, unlock your front door's smart lock. You can do it all from the doorbell camera screen. 

3: Secure the Door 

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Once the package is inside, and your delivery driver has closed the front door, it only takes a couple of taps on your app to re-secure your house. Lock the door, arm the security system and be sure to say thanks to your delivery driver. 

Your package is now secure and protected alongside everything else in your home. Happy holidays! 

PS: If you prefer to use your garage as the drop-off point, you can do that too. 

Want to foil the package thieves this holiday? 

It's easy to have a doorbell camera and smart lock added to your smart home security system. Talk to your La Alarms today about upgrading your front door.