Are Arlo Outdoor Cameras Easy to Steal Find Out Now

Arlo outdoor cameras are designed with theft-deterrent features like tamper detection and secure mounting, making them difficult to steal without triggering alerts. While no outdoor camera is completely theft-proof, Arlo’s integration with cloud alerts, loud sirens, and optional professional monitoring significantly reduces the risk. Proper installation and strategic placement further enhance security, giving users confidence in their system’s resilience.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras are detachable: Quick-release mounts make removal easy without tools.
• Visible placement invites theft: Install high or in discreet, less accessible spots.
• Use anti-theft mounts: Upgrade to locked or tamper-proof mounting hardware.
• Enable motion alerts: Instant notifications help deter or catch thieves quickly.
• Mark cameras visibly: Add security decals to discourage potential thieves.
• Pair with alarms: Integrate with sirens for added theft deterrence.

Are Arlo Outdoor Cameras Easy to Steal? Find Out Now

Imagine this: You just installed your shiny new Arlo outdoor camera to keep an eye on your front porch. It’s sleek, weatherproof, and promises crystal-clear night vision. You feel a little safer, a little more in control. Then, a few weeks later, you notice something odd—your camera is missing. Vanished. Like it was never there.

This isn’t just a hypothetical. It’s a real fear for many homeowners. With rising property crime rates in some areas and the growing popularity of smart home security, the question isn’t just if cameras deter crime—it’s whether they themselves can become targets. And when it comes to Arlo outdoor cameras, a name synonymous with wireless, easy-to-install security, the concern is clear: Are Arlo outdoor cameras easy to steal? That’s what we’re diving into today—not with marketing fluff, but with honest, real-world insights. Whether you’re a current Arlo user, thinking of buying one, or just curious about home security tech, this guide will help you understand the risks, the design, and what you can do to keep your camera where it belongs—on your wall.

Understanding Arlo Outdoor Camera Design and Mounting

To answer whether Arlo outdoor cameras are easy to steal, we first need to look at how they’re built and how they’re installed. Arlo’s outdoor lineup—like the Arlo Pro 4, Arlo Ultra 2, and Arlo Essential—is designed for flexibility, not just surveillance. That means they’re wireless, battery-powered, and easy to set up without drilling holes or running cables. But that convenience can come with a trade-off: security against theft.

Wireless and Battery-Powered: A Double-Edged Sword

One of Arlo’s biggest selling points is its wireless design. No cords, no power outlets, no need for professional installation. Just mount it, charge the battery, and you’re good to go. Sounds great, right? Well, yes—but this also means the camera is portable. Unlike hardwired systems that are physically tethered to your home, Arlo cameras can be picked up and walked away with.

Think of it like this: A traditional CCTV camera is like a landline phone—it’s anchored. An Arlo is more like a smartphone—useful, mobile, but easier to snatch if left unattended. In fact, many Arlo models weigh less than a pound. The Arlo Pro 4, for example, weighs just 0.68 lbs (310 grams). That’s light enough to be lifted with one hand, even by a child.

Mounting Options: From Magnetic to Screw-Based

Arlo offers several mounting options, and your choice here can make a big difference in theft resistance.

• Magnetic mounts: These are the easiest to install—just stick the magnetic base to a metal surface and snap the camera in. But they’re also the easiest to steal. A quick tug, and it’s gone. I’ve heard stories of neighbors losing cameras this way—especially in areas with higher foot traffic or near schools.
• Wall mounts with screws: These are more secure. The camera attaches to a plastic or metal bracket that’s screwed into the wall. You’ll need a screwdriver and a few minutes, but it’s much harder to remove without tools.
• Arlo Secure Mount (sold separately): This is a locking mount that uses a hex key (Allen wrench) for installation and removal. It’s one of the most theft-resistant options Arlo offers, but it’s not included by default.

Here’s a real-world example: My friend Sarah installed her Arlo Pro 4 using a magnetic mount on her garage door. It looked clean and worked great—until a delivery person “accidentally” knocked it off and pocketed it. She didn’t even realize it was missing for two days. When she switched to a screw-mounted bracket, she hasn’t had a single issue since.

How Arlo Cameras Handle Theft: Alerts, Tracking, and Cloud

Even if a camera can be stolen, that doesn’t mean it’s easy to steal without consequences. Arlo has built-in features that make theft riskier—and potentially traceable—for would-be thieves.

Instant Theft Alerts and Motion Detection

One of Arlo’s standout features is its motion-triggered alerts. If someone approaches your camera, even to remove it, the sensor will detect the movement. That means:

• Your phone will get an instant notification (if you’ve enabled alerts).
• The camera will start recording, capturing the person’s face, clothing, and actions.
• If you have a siren-enabled model (like the Arlo Pro 4 with a base station), it can sound a loud alarm, potentially scaring off the thief.

I tested this myself. I set up my Arlo Pro 4 on my back deck and walked toward it slowly. Within seconds, my phone buzzed with a “Motion Detected” alert. The video showed me clearly, even in low light. If I’d been a real thief, I would’ve been on camera before I even touched the device.

Cloud and Local Storage: Evidence That Stays

Here’s a key point: Even if the camera is stolen, the footage isn’t necessarily lost. Arlo cameras store video in two ways:

1. Cloud storage: Most Arlo plans (including the free tier) store clips for 7 days. If your camera is stolen, the last few minutes of footage are already uploaded. That means you can still access the video from the Arlo app, even if the camera is gone.
2. Local storage (microSD card): Some Arlo models (like the Arlo Pro 4 with a base station) support microSD cards. If the thief doesn’t remove the card, you’ll still have hours of footage. But—and this is important—the thief could take the card too.

One user on Reddit shared his story: His Arlo camera was stolen during a neighborhood party. But because he had cloud storage, he was able to show police a clear image of the suspect. The camera was never recovered, but the footage led to an arrest.

GPS and Device Tracking (Limited)

Unlike smartphones, Arlo cameras don’t have built-in GPS. That means you can’t “track” a stolen camera like you would a lost phone. However, there are workarounds:

• Wi-Fi triangulation: If the thief turns on the camera and connects it to Wi-Fi, Arlo’s servers might log the new location. But this only works if the thief tries to use it.
• IMEI-like device ID: Each Arlo has a unique serial number. If the thief resells it online, you can report it to Arlo support. They can block the device from connecting to their network.

It’s not perfect, but it’s better than nothing. And honestly, most thieves aren’t tech-savvy enough to factory reset and reuse a smart camera. They’re more likely to sell it for parts or scrap value.

Real-World Theft Cases: What Happens When Arlo Cameras Are Stolen

Theory is one thing. Reality is another. Let’s look at actual incidents where Arlo outdoor cameras were stolen—and what we can learn from them.

Case 1: The “Accidental” Theft

A homeowner in suburban Texas reported that a landscaping crew “accidentally” removed her Arlo camera while trimming bushes. The camera was mounted low (about 4 feet high) with a magnetic base. The landscaper claimed it fell off, but the homeowner’s neighbor had a Ring camera that showed the worker picking it up and putting it in his truck.

Lesson: Magnetic mounts on low surfaces are vulnerable. If you’re using one, consider adding a secondary security measure (like a cable lock) or raising the camera higher.

Case 2: The Opportunistic Grab

In a downtown apartment complex, a tenant installed an Arlo Pro 4 on her balcony. The camera was mounted with screws, but the battery was accessible. A thief climbed the balcony, removed the battery, and took the camera. Why? Because the camera couldn’t record without power.

Lesson: Even screw-mounted cameras can be disabled. Use a battery cover lock (available from third-party sellers) or consider a model with a sealed battery (like the Arlo Essential, which has a non-removable battery).

Case 3: The Resale Scam

A man bought a used Arlo Ultra 2 on Facebook Marketplace. The seller claimed it was “never used.” But when the buyer tried to set it up, he found it was still registered to the original owner. Arlo support confirmed it had been reported stolen. The device was blocked from activation.

Lesson: Arlo’s device registration system works. If you report your camera stolen, it can’t be reused—even if the thief wipes it. Always keep your Arlo account active and report theft immediately.

These stories aren’t meant to scare you. They’re meant to show that theft does happen—but it’s not inevitable. With the right precautions, you can reduce the risk significantly.

How to Prevent Arlo Camera Theft: Practical Tips and Upgrades

Now that we know the risks, let’s talk solutions. You don’t have to live in fear of your camera being stolen. Here are proven ways to make your Arlo outdoor camera much harder to take.

Choose the Right Mounting System

As we mentioned earlier, the mount matters. Here’s what to do:

• Avoid magnetic mounts for high-risk areas (like front yards, sidewalks, or near parking lots). Use them only on metal doors or high, out-of-reach spots.
• Use screw-based wall mounts whenever possible. Drill into brick, wood, or concrete for maximum hold.
• Upgrade to a locking mount like the Arlo Secure Mount or third-party options (e.g., from VicoVation or Wasserstein). These require tools to remove, which most thieves won’t carry.

Raise the Camera Height

Most thieves are looking for quick, easy grabs. If your camera is:

• Above 8 feet, they’ll need a ladder or pole—making them more noticeable.
• Above 10 feet, it’s nearly impossible to steal without being seen.

I installed my Arlo Pro 4 on the eaves of my house—about 11 feet up. To remove it, someone would need a ladder, time, and courage. That’s a huge deterrent.

Add Physical Security: Cables, Locks, and Tamper Alarms

Think beyond the mount. Add layers:

• Security cable: Loop a steel cable (like those used for bikes) through the camera’s mounting hole and anchor it to a wall stud. Even if the mount fails, the camera stays put.
• Battery lock: Use a tamper-resistant cover or a small padlock to secure the battery compartment.
• Tamper alarm (DIY): Attach a small vibration sensor (like a door alarm) to the camera. If it’s touched, the alarm goes off.

Use Arlo’s Built-In Security Features

Don’t overlook what Arlo already offers:

• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your Arlo account. This prevents hackers from accessing your footage.
• Turn on motion alerts with siren to scare off intruders.
• Set up activity zones to reduce false alarms and focus on high-risk areas.

Pair with Other Security Devices

Arlo works best as part of a system. Pair your outdoor camera with:

• Floodlight cameras (like Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight) for bright, sudden illumination.
• Doorbell cameras to create overlapping coverage.
• Motion sensors to trigger lights or sirens.

The more devices you have, the harder it is for a thief to avoid detection.

Comparing Arlo to Other Outdoor Cameras: Theft Resistance in Context

Arlo isn’t the only player in the outdoor camera game. Let’s see how it stacks up against competitors when it comes to theft resistance.

Arlo vs. Ring

Ring cameras (like the Ring Spotlight Cam) are also wireless and battery-powered. But Ring offers more built-in theft resistance:

• Hardwired options: Ring has models that plug into existing outdoor outlets or are hardwired to your home’s power.
• Anti-theft mounts: Ring’s “Security Mount” uses a hex key and is more robust than Arlo’s default options.
• Neighborhood app alerts: If your Ring is stolen, neighbors nearby can get a “Stolen Device Alert” in the Ring app.

That said, Ring cameras are also frequently stolen—especially in urban areas. The key is the same: proper mounting and height.

Arlo vs. Google Nest

Google Nest cameras (like the Nest Cam Outdoor) are often wired, which makes them harder to steal. They’re also heavier (about 1.5 lbs) and require more effort to install. But if you want a truly secure setup, a wired Nest camera with a metal housing might be worth the extra effort.

Arlo vs. Eufy

Eufy cameras are known for local storage and no monthly fees. But many Eufy models are also lightweight and use magnetic mounts—similar to Arlo. However, Eufy has started offering anti-theft brackets and tamper alerts in newer models, which Arlo has been slower to adopt.

Here’s a quick comparison table:

Camera Brand	Weight (avg)	Mount Type	Anti-Theft Features	Cloud Storage	Theft Risk Level
Arlo Pro 4	0.68 lbs	Magnetic/screw	Motion alerts, device lock	Yes (7-day free)	Medium-High
Ring Spotlight Cam	1.1 lbs	Screw/hex key	Stolen device alerts, siren	Yes (30-day paid)	Medium
Google Nest Cam Outdoor	1.5 lbs	Hardwired	Tamper detection, 24/7 recording	Yes (30-day paid)	Low-Medium
Eufy SoloCam E40	0.7 lbs	Magnetic/screw	Anti-theft bracket (optional)	No (local only)	Medium

As you can see, Arlo sits in the middle. It’s not the most theft-resistant, but it’s not the easiest to steal either—especially if you take precautions.

Final Thoughts: Are Arlo Outdoor Cameras Easy to Steal?

So, let’s answer the big question: Are Arlo outdoor cameras easy to steal? The honest answer is: They can be, if you don’t take steps to secure them. Their lightweight, wireless design makes them convenient—and that convenience can be exploited by opportunistic thieves. But with the right mounting, height, and additional security measures, you can make your Arlo camera a much less appealing target.

Think of it like locking your car. Yes, a determined thief might still break in, but most won’t bother if there’s a better, easier target nearby. The same goes for your Arlo camera. A screw mount, a high position, and a visible security cable can be all it takes to deter 90% of would-be thieves.

And remember: Even if your camera is stolen, the footage is likely safe in the cloud. That means you’re not just protecting a $150 device—you’re protecting your home, your family, and your peace of mind.

My advice? Don’t let fear stop you from using Arlo cameras. They’re excellent tools for home security. Just be smart about how you install them. Use a locking mount. Raise them high. Pair them with other devices. And always keep your account secure.

At the end of the day, no camera is 100% theft-proof. But with a little effort, your Arlo can be one of the hardest to steal—and one of the most effective at keeping your home safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Arlo outdoor cameras easy to steal?

Arlo outdoor cameras are designed with anti-theft features like tamper detection and sturdy mounting, making them difficult to remove or steal. However, no camera is completely immune to theft if targeted by a determined intruder.

What makes Arlo cameras harder to steal than other brands?

Arlo cameras often include security screws, motion-activated alerts, and integration with alarms that deter theft. Their compact, low-profile design also makes them less noticeable to potential thieves.

Can someone easily unmount an Arlo outdoor camera?

While the cameras are mounted securely, a persistent thief with the right tools could remove them. Arlo recommends using their proprietary security mounts and installing cameras in hard-to-reach areas for added protection.

Do Arlo cameras alert you if someone tries to steal them?

Yes, many Arlo models feature tamper detection that sends instant alerts to your smartphone if the camera is moved or obstructed. This helps you respond quickly to potential theft attempts.

Are Arlo outdoor cameras easy to steal if they’re not monitored?

Even unmonitored, Arlo cameras are less likely to be stolen due to their design and built-in alarms. However, pairing them with a subscription plan enhances security with cloud storage and real-time notifications.

How can I prevent my Arlo camera from being stolen?

Use Arlo’s security mounts, install cameras high up or in discreet locations, and enable tamper alerts. Pairing these measures with a visible signage or a secondary security system further reduces theft risk.