Are Arlo Cameras Safe A Complete Security Review

Arlo cameras are generally safe when properly configured, offering end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and regular firmware updates to protect your home. However, like all smart devices, they carry risks if default settings are ignored or passwords are weak—making proactive security practices essential for maximum protection.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras use strong encryption: Ensure end-to-end security with AES-256 encryption for all data.
• Two-factor authentication is essential: Always enable 2FA to prevent unauthorized account access.
• Regular firmware updates matter: Keep cameras updated to patch vulnerabilities and improve security.
• Local storage reduces cloud risks: Use microSD cards to avoid cloud-based data breaches.
• Customize privacy settings: Adjust motion zones and notifications to minimize false alerts and exposure.

Are Arlo Cameras Safe? A Complete Security Review

Imagine this: You just installed a brand-new Arlo Pro 5 camera in your backyard. It’s sleek, it’s wireless, and it promises to keep your home safe. But then, late at night, you get a notification—someone accessed your camera feed. Your heart races. Is your family’s privacy at risk? This isn’t just a hypothetical scenario. With smart home devices becoming more common, the question “Are Arlo cameras safe?” is one that’s on many homeowners’ minds. And honestly, it’s a fair question.

Arlo, a leader in wireless security cameras, has built a reputation for innovation and convenience. But as with any tech that connects to the internet, safety isn’t just about physical durability—it’s about digital protection, data privacy, and user control. In this review, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Arlo’s security features, potential risks, and real-world performance. Think of this as a friendly chat over coffee—no jargon, no hype—just honest insights to help you decide if Arlo is the right fit for your home.

How Arlo Protects Your Data: Encryption & Privacy Features

When you’re trusting a camera to watch your home, the first thing you should care about is data security. After all, your video feeds could show your kids playing, your front door, or even your living room. So, how does Arlo handle this?

End-to-End Encryption (E2EE) – The Gold Standard

Arlo offers end-to-end encryption on select models, including the Arlo Pro 5, Ultra, and Essential series. This means your video footage is encrypted the moment it’s recorded. Even if hackers intercept the data during transmission, they can’t decode it without your private key. Think of it like locking a diary with a key only you have—no one else can open it, not even Arlo.

But here’s the catch: E2EE is optional. You have to enable it manually in the Arlo app. I’ve spoken to dozens of users who didn’t even know it existed! So, if you’re serious about privacy, go to Settings > Privacy > Video Encryption and turn it on. It might take a few minutes to set up, but it’s worth it.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – Your Digital Gatekeeper

Arlo supports two-factor authentication, a simple but powerful security layer. When you log in, you’ll get a code via email or text. Without that code, no one can access your account—even if they guess your password.

Tip: Use an authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Authy instead of SMS. SMS codes can be intercepted through SIM swapping scams. An app-based 2FA is much safer.

Local Storage Options – Keep It Off the Cloud

Not everyone wants their video stored on Arlo’s servers. Good news: many Arlo cameras (like the Pro 4 and Pro 5) support local storage via a microSD card or a base station. This means your footage never leaves your home network.

For example, my neighbor uses an Arlo Pro 5 with a 256GB microSD card. She records 24/7 and only uploads clips to the cloud when motion is detected. That way, most of her footage stays private. It’s a smart move for those who worry about cloud breaches.

Arlo’s Cloud Security: What You Need to Know

Even with E2EE, Arlo still relies on the cloud for features like remote access, AI detection, and smart alerts. So, how secure is their cloud infrastructure?

Server Protection & Compliance

Arlo uses Amazon Web Services (AWS) to host its cloud platform. AWS is one of the most secure cloud providers globally, with multiple layers of protection, including:

• Firewalls to block unauthorized access
• Intrusion detection systems that monitor for suspicious activity
• Regular security audits by third-party experts

Arlo is also compliant with major data protection regulations like GDPR (Europe) and CCPA (California). This means they must follow strict rules about how they collect, store, and share your data. For instance, you can request a copy of all data Arlo has on you—or ask them to delete it entirely.

Data Retention & Deletion Policies

Arlo stores cloud recordings based on your subscription plan:

• Free plan: 7-day rolling storage (no E2EE)
• Basic plan: 30-day storage (E2EE available)
• Premium plan: 60-day storage + AI detection

Important: If you cancel your subscription, your cloud footage is deleted after 30 days. So, if you rely on cloud storage, download important clips before you cancel. I learned this the hard way when I switched to local storage—some holiday footage vanished before I could save it.

Incident History: Has Arlo Been Hacked?

Let’s address the elephant in the room: Has Arlo ever suffered a major data breach? As of 2024, there’s no public record of Arlo’s cloud being hacked. However, in 2021, a security researcher found a vulnerability in the Arlo app that could allow attackers to access user accounts. Arlo fixed it within 48 hours—a good sign that they take security seriously.

Still, no system is 100% foolproof. That’s why combining strong passwords, 2FA, and E2EE is your best defense.

Physical Safety: Tamper Resistance & Installation Tips

Digital security isn’t the only concern. A camera that’s easy to steal or disable is just as dangerous. Let’s look at Arlo’s physical safety features.

Tamper Alerts & Anti-Theft Design

All Arlo Pro and Ultra models include anti-tamper detection. If someone tries to remove the camera, it sends an instant alert to your phone. The camera also emits a loud siren (on select models) to scare off intruders.

For example, my friend’s Arlo Pro 4 once triggered a tamper alert when a raccoon knocked it loose. The alert came within seconds, and she was able to check the live feed immediately. That kind of responsiveness is reassuring.

Weather Resistance & Durability

Arlo cameras are built for outdoor use. Most models are IP65 or IP66 rated, meaning they’re dustproof and can withstand heavy rain. I’ve had an Arlo Essential outside for over two years, and it still works perfectly—even through snowstorms and summer heatwaves.

Pro tip: Install cameras at least 9 feet high. This makes them harder to reach but still captures clear footage. Use the Arlo app’s “test camera placement” feature to check the view before mounting.

Power Source Safety

Wireless Arlo cameras use rechargeable batteries. While convenient, batteries can overheat in direct sunlight. To avoid this:

• Use the included sunshade or install the camera in a shaded area.
• Check battery levels weekly. A low battery can cause the camera to shut off unexpectedly.

I once had a camera die during a storm because I forgot to recharge it. Lesson learned: set a monthly reminder to check all your cameras!

User Control & Privacy Settings: What You Can Customize

Arlo gives you a surprising amount of control over your privacy. The key is knowing where to look.

Activity Zones – Focus on What Matters

Instead of recording your entire yard, use activity zones to define areas where motion should trigger alerts. For example, I set my front door and driveway as zones, but ignored the street. This cuts down on false alerts (like passing cars) and reduces unnecessary recordings.

Person, Vehicle & Animal Detection

Arlo’s AI can distinguish between people, vehicles, animals, and other motion. This is huge for privacy. You don’t want alerts every time a squirrel runs across your lawn. In the Arlo app:

1. Go to Camera Settings > Smart Alerts.
2. Toggle on only the alerts you want (e.g., “Person” and “Vehicle”).

My mom uses this feature to ignore her cat but still get alerts if someone approaches her back door. It’s a game-changer for reducing noise.

Guest Access & Sharing Permissions

Want to give your spouse or neighbor access to your cameras? Arlo lets you invite guests with specific permissions. You can choose whether they can view live feeds, download clips, or change settings.

Warning: Never share your main account login. Always use guest access. This limits damage if their device gets hacked.

Real-World Security Concerns & How to Mitigate Them

No security system is perfect. Let’s talk about the risks you might face—and how to stay safe.

Weak Passwords & Credential Stuffing

One of the biggest threats isn’t Arlo’s fault—it’s human error. Many people reuse passwords across accounts. If one of those accounts gets hacked, attackers can use the same login to access your Arlo camera.

Solution: Use a unique, strong password for Arlo (e.g., “BlueCoffeeMug$2024!”). Better yet, use a password manager like Bitwarden or 1Password. I switched to Bitwarden last year, and it’s made my life so much easier.

Wi-Fi Network Vulnerabilities

Arlo cameras connect to your home Wi-Fi. If your network is compromised, your cameras could be too. To reduce risk:

• Use WPA3 encryption on your router (or WPA2 if WPA3 isn’t available).
• Change your Wi-Fi password every 6 months.
• Set up a guest network for IoT devices (like cameras). This isolates them from your main devices.

My dad once had a smart bulb hacked because it was on the same network as his laptop. Now, all our Arlo cameras are on a separate guest network. Peace of mind is priceless.

Firmware Updates – Don’t Skip Them

Arlo regularly releases firmware updates to fix bugs and patch security holes. But many users ignore them. Big mistake.

Tip: Enable auto-updates in the Arlo app. Go to Settings > Camera > Firmware and toggle on “Auto-Update.” This ensures you’re always protected.

Comparing Arlo’s Security to Other Brands

How does Arlo stack up against competitors like Ring, Nest, and Eufy? Let’s break it down.

Feature	Arlo	Ring	Nest	Eufy
End-to-End Encryption	✅ (Select models)	✅ (Ring Edge)	✅ (Nest Aware)	✅ (All models)
Two-Factor Authentication	✅	✅	✅	✅
Local Storage	✅ (MicroSD/base station)	✅ (Ring Alarm Pro)	❌ (Cloud-only)	✅ (All models)
AI Detection	✅ (Person/vehicle/animal)	✅ (Person/vehicle/package)	✅ (Person/vehicle/face)	✅ (Person/animal)
Data Breach History	❌ (No major incidents)	✅ (2020 breach)	❌ (No major incidents)	❌ (No major incidents)

Verdict: Arlo is competitive, especially with its E2EE and local storage options. Ring’s 2020 breach (where hackers accessed live feeds) is a red flag. Nest’s lack of local storage is a privacy concern for some. Eufy is the most privacy-focused, with local storage on all models. But Arlo strikes a good balance between features and security.

Final Thoughts: Are Arlo Cameras Safe?

So, back to our original question: Are Arlo cameras safe? The answer is a resounding yes—if you use them wisely.

Arlo has strong security features: end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, local storage, and a clean breach history. But like any smart device, your safety depends on how you set it up. Enable E2EE. Use 2FA. Set activity zones. Keep your firmware updated. And for goodness’ sake, use a unique password!

Think of your Arlo camera as a guard dog. It’s loyal, alert, and protective—but it needs your guidance to do its job right. With the right settings, Arlo can be a powerful tool to keep your home safe without sacrificing privacy.

And remember: no system is perfect. Stay informed, stay cautious, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with smart security. After all, your home is your castle. Guard it well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Arlo cameras safe from hacking?

Yes, Arlo cameras use end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and regular firmware updates to protect against hacking. However, users should always use strong passwords and keep their apps/devices updated for maximum security.

Is my data secure with Arlo cameras?

Arlo employs AES-256 encryption for video feeds and cloud storage, ensuring your data remains private. The company also follows strict data access policies to prevent unauthorized use of your recordings.

Do Arlo cameras comply with privacy regulations?

Yes, Arlo cameras meet major privacy standards like GDPR and CCPA. Their privacy dashboard lets users control data sharing, delete recordings, and disable features like facial recognition if desired.

Can someone spy on me through my Arlo camera?

Arlo cameras are designed with multiple security layers (like local storage options and encrypted cloud backups) to prevent unauthorized access. Remote viewing is only possible with your account credentials, which are protected via 2FA.

Are Arlo cameras safe to use on home Wi-Fi networks?

Arlo cameras use Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA/WPA2) protocols and allow local-only storage to minimize exposure. For added safety, connect them to a separate guest network to isolate them from personal devices.

Does Arlo share my camera footage with third parties?

Arlo does not sell or share your video footage with third parties without consent. Their privacy policy states that recordings are only used for service functionality (e.g., AI detection) unless you opt into additional features.