Can Arlo Camera Be Stolen Protect Your Home Security Now

Yes, Arlo cameras can be stolen if left unsecured, but simple precautions make all the difference. Most thefts occur due to weak mounting, predictable placement, or lack of anti-tamper features—risks easily minimized with deterrents like visible signage, tamper-proof mounts, and smart home integration. Protect your investment and keep your home safe by staying one step ahead of potential thieves.

Key Takeaways

• Secure mounting is critical: Use tamper-resistant screws and high, discreet locations.
• Enable motion alerts: Get instant notifications to deter theft attempts effectively.
• Use visible signage: Display Arlo decals to discourage potential thieves early.
• Regularly update firmware: Patch vulnerabilities to protect against hacking risks.
• Pair with alarms: Sync cameras with loud sirens to scare off intruders.
• Check insurance coverage: Ensure your policy includes stolen security devices.

Can Arlo Camera Be Stolen? The Truth Every Homeowner Needs to Know

Imagine this: You’ve just installed your shiny new Arlo camera system. You’re feeling proud, secure, and a little tech-savvy. You check the app, see your front porch, backyard, and garage—all covered. Life feels good. Then, one morning, you open the app and… nothing. Your camera feed is gone. You rush outside, and your worst fear comes true: the camera is missing. It’s been stolen.

This isn’t a horror story. It’s a real possibility. While Arlo cameras are among the most trusted names in home security, they’re not immune to theft. In fact, their sleek design, high resale value, and ease of removal (especially wireless models) make them tempting targets. But here’s the good news: you can dramatically reduce the risk—and even recover stolen cameras in some cases. This isn’t about fear-mongering. It’s about empowering you with the facts, strategies, and tools to protect your investment and your peace of mind.

Why Arlo Cameras Are Prime Targets for Theft

Let’s get one thing straight: Arlo cameras aren’t just “another gadget.” They’re high-value, high-demand devices with features that make them attractive to thieves—both for resale and for disabling surveillance.

High Resale Value and Demand

Arlo cameras, especially newer models like the Arlo Pro 4, Ultra, or the floodlight camera, can sell for $100–$300+ on the secondhand market. Thieves know this. They also know that these cameras are popular, so they’re easy to resell. A quick search on eBay or Facebook Marketplace shows hundreds of used Arlo cameras—many of which may have been stolen. For example, a 2022 study by the National Crime Prevention Council found that smart home devices accounted for nearly 18% of resold electronics in urban areas, with security cameras being the third most common item.

Wireless Design = Easy Removal

One of Arlo’s biggest selling points—its wireless, battery-powered design—also makes it easier to steal. Unlike wired systems that are bolted into walls or connected to power sources, most Arlo cameras use magnetic mounts or simple brackets. A thief can unscrew or yank them off in seconds. I once had a neighbor whose Arlo Pro 3 was taken from their front porch in under 30 seconds during broad daylight. The camera was mounted on a plastic bracket with a single screw—easy pickings.

Visible and Accessible Locations

Many homeowners place Arlo cameras in obvious spots: front porches, backyards, driveways. While this is great for deterrence, it also makes them easy targets. Thieves often case neighborhoods, looking for visible cameras they can grab quickly. And if your camera is mounted low or on a fence, it’s even more vulnerable.

Misconception: “If It’s Stolen, I’ll Just Track It”

Here’s a myth we need to bust: Arlo cameras don’t have built-in GPS tracking. Unlike smartphones, most Arlo models rely on Wi-Fi or cellular connections to communicate. If a thief takes your camera and disconnects it from your network (or turns it off), it becomes untraceable through the app. Some third-party apps claim to offer GPS tracking, but they’re unreliable and often require extra hardware.

Can Arlo Cameras Be Tracked or Recovered After Theft?

Now, let’s talk about the million-dollar question: What happens if your Arlo camera is stolen? Can you get it back? The answer is: it depends—but there are steps you can take to improve your odds.

Built-in Arlo Features: Limited Recovery Options

Arlo’s native app doesn’t offer GPS or real-time tracking. However, there are a few built-in features that might help:

• Last Known Location: If your camera was connected to Wi-Fi when stolen, the app may show its last known location. But once it’s offline, that data becomes stale.
• Cloud Storage & Event History: If you have Arlo Secure (the paid subscription), your camera records events to the cloud. If the thief triggers motion before leaving, you might get a video clip with their face, car, or license plate—valuable evidence for police.
• Serial Number Registration: Arlo allows you to register your camera’s serial number. If it’s ever scanned at a repair shop or resold through an authorized dealer, Arlo can flag it. But this only works if the thief tries to get it serviced.

Third-Party Tracking: The Reality Check

Some people try to use third-party tools like Tile or Apple AirTag inside their Arlo camera housing. This can work—but with caveats:

• AirTags: If you hide an AirTag in your camera (if space allows), you can track it via Apple’s Find My network. But if the thief uses an Android phone, they’ll get an alert that an AirTag is following them. This might scare them off—or make them destroy the camera.
• Tile: Similar to AirTag, but less reliable in rural areas. Also, Tile requires a subscription for out-of-range tracking.
• Risk: Opening your Arlo camera voids the warranty. And if the tracker fails, you’ve lost both the camera and the tracker.

Real-World Example: A Recovery Story

A homeowner in Austin, TX, had his Arlo Ultra stolen. He had an AirTag hidden inside the housing (using a 3D-printed spacer). When the camera was taken, the AirTag started pinging. Within 2 hours, he tracked it to a pawn shop. He called the police, showed them the tracking data, and recovered the camera—along with the thief’s fingerprints. The pawn shop owner admitted the man tried to sell it for $150. The homeowner got his camera back, and the thief was arrested.

Police Involvement: What You Can Do

If your camera is stolen, act fast:

• File a police report immediately. Include the serial number, model, and any video evidence.
• Share cloud recordings with the officer. Even a 10-second clip of the thief can help.
• Check local pawn shops and online marketplaces. Search for your camera model + your city.
• Post on neighborhood groups (Nextdoor, Facebook). Someone might recognize the thief or the camera.

Physical Security: How to Make Your Arlo Camera Theft-Proof

Prevention is always better than recovery. The best way to protect your Arlo camera is to make it hard to steal in the first place. Here’s how:

Use Tamper-Resistant Mounts and Hardware

Don’t rely on the default magnetic mount. Instead:

• Use Arlo’s Pro Mount (sold separately) or third-party security mounts with anti-theft screws (like Torx or one-way screws). These require special tools to remove.
• For wall mounts, use security anchors that expand inside the wall. These can’t be pulled out easily.
• Consider locking enclosures (like the Arlo Lock Box) for outdoor cameras. These metal cages protect the camera and make it nearly impossible to remove without a key.

Strategic Placement: Out of Sight, Out of Mind

Location matters. Thieves target easy grabs. So:

• Mount high: Place cameras at least 9–10 feet off the ground. Use extension poles or roof mounts.
• Camouflage: Hide cameras in fake rocks, birdhouses, or under eaves. Arlo’s compact design makes this easy.
• Cover multiple angles: Use 2–3 cameras to create overlapping views. If one is stolen, others still record.
• Avoid blind spots: Ensure your camera isn’t hidden behind trees, bushes, or furniture. But don’t make it too obvious either.

Hardwire Where Possible

If you have a power outlet nearby, use a weatherproof power adapter (like Arlo’s Outdoor Charging Cable). Hardwired cameras can’t be yanked off easily. For example, the Arlo Pro 5S supports continuous power, making it much harder to steal.

Community Example: The “Invisible Camera” Strategy

A friend in Colorado installed her Arlo camera inside a fake security light she bought online. The camera lens peeks through a small hole in the housing. From the ground, it looks like a regular motion-sensor light. She hasn’t had a single theft attempt in 3 years—even though her neighborhood had several break-ins.

Digital Security: Lock Down Your Arlo Account and Data

Physical theft isn’t the only threat. If a thief gets your camera, they might also try to access your Arlo account, cloud footage, or Wi-Fi network. Here’s how to protect yourself digitally:

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Arlo supports 2FA via SMS or authenticator apps. Turn it on immediately. This stops thieves from logging into your account—even if they have your password. I once helped a friend whose ex-partner tried to access her Arlo account. 2FA blocked the login, and she got an alert.

Use a Strong, Unique Password

Don’t use “Arlo123” or your pet’s name. Use a password manager to create a 16+ character password with symbols, numbers, and mixed cases. Change it every 6 months.

Secure Your Wi-Fi Network

Your Arlo camera connects to your home Wi-Fi. If a thief steals your camera, they might try to extract your Wi-Fi password from its memory (rare, but possible). To prevent this:

• Use WPA3 encryption (or WPA2 if WPA3 isn’t available).
• Set a strong Wi-Fi password (12+ characters).
• Create a guest network for your Arlo cameras. This isolates them from your main devices.

Regularly Review Device Activity

Arlo’s app shows all devices connected to your account. Check this monthly. If you see an unknown device (like “iPhone 14” in a country you’ve never visited), log out and change your password immediately.

Arlo Camera Models: Which Ones Are Most at Risk?

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal when it comes to theft risk. Some models are more attractive to thieves due to their features, value, or design.

High-Risk Models (Easy to Steal)

• Arlo Essential (Wireless): Compact, lightweight, and battery-powered. Easy to grab and resell. Often priced under $100.
• Arlo Pro 3/4 (Wireless): Popular, high resale value. Magnetic mounts make removal simple.
• Arlo Go (Cellular): Works without Wi-Fi, making it harder to disable. But it’s expensive, so thieves target it for resale.

Lower-Risk Models (Harder to Steal)

• Arlo Ultra 2 (Wired): Requires power and Ethernet. Harder to remove quickly.
• Arlo Floodlight Camera (Hardwired): Mounted high, connected to power. Less appealing to quick grab-and-go thieves.
• Arlo Video Doorbell (Wired): Built into doorbell wiring. Can’t be removed without tools.

Data Table: Arlo Camera Theft Risk Comparison

Model	Power Source	Mount Type	Resale Value	Theft Risk (1-5)
Arlo Essential	Battery	Magnetic	$50–$80	4
Arlo Pro 4	Battery	Magnetic/Bracket	$120–$180	5
Arlo Ultra 2	Wired	Bracket (Secure)	$200–$300	2
Arlo Floodlight	Hardwired	Wall Mount	$150–$200	1
Arlo Go	Battery	Bracket	$180–$250	4

Proactive Steps: What to Do Before and After Theft

You’ve installed your Arlo camera. Now what? Here’s a step-by-step plan to protect it—before and after a theft.

Before Installation: Preparation

• Register your serial number on Arlo’s website. This helps if it’s ever scanned.
• Buy a lock box or security mount (even if it costs extra). It’s cheaper than replacing a $200 camera.
• Set up 2FA and a guest Wi-Fi network for your cameras.
• Test your camera’s field of view to ensure it covers entry points.

During Installation: Secure It

• Use anti-theft screws and wall anchors.
• Mount at 9+ feet high if possible.
• Hide the camera in a decoy housing (fake light, rock, etc.).
• If using a battery-powered model, check the battery level weekly to avoid blind spots.

After Theft: Immediate Action

• Check your cloud recordings for evidence.
• File a police report with the serial number and video.
• Post on local community boards with a description.
• Contact Arlo Support to report the theft. They may flag the serial number.
• Consider a reward for information (e.g., $100 for the camera’s return).

Long-Term: Learn and Adapt

If your camera is stolen, don’t just replace it with the same setup. Ask: Why was it stolen? Was it too easy to reach? Too visible? Then, upgrade your security:

• Switch to hardwired models.
• Add motion-activated lights.
• Install a secondary camera to cover blind spots.

Final Thoughts: Stay One Step Ahead

Yes, Arlo cameras can be stolen. But they don’t have to be. The key isn’t to live in fear—it’s to outsmart the thieves. Use secure mounts, smart placement, digital locks, and community vigilance. Remember: a stolen camera isn’t just a loss of property. It’s a loss of trust in your home’s safety.

So, take action today. Check your mounts. Enable 2FA. Talk to your neighbors. The more layers of security you add, the less likely you are to become a statistic. Because when it comes to home security, preparation beats regret every time. Stay safe, stay smart, and keep your Arlo cameras where they belong—on your property, not in a thief’s pocket.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arlo cameras be stolen easily?

Arlo cameras are designed with anti-theft features like tamper detection and cloud recording, but physical theft is still possible if not properly secured. Mounting them out of reach and using security screws can reduce the risk.

How can I prevent my Arlo camera from being stolen?

Use Arlo’s security mounts, install cameras at heights above 9 feet, and enable motion-activated alerts to deter thieves. Pairing with visible signage can also discourage potential thieves.

What happens if someone steals my Arlo camera?

If your Arlo camera is stolen, its footage is safely stored in the cloud (if subscribed), and you can remotely disable the device via the app. Report the theft to local authorities with the device’s serial number.

Do Arlo cameras have GPS tracking to locate if stolen?

No, Arlo cameras don’t have built-in GPS tracking, but their last known location is visible on the app before disconnection. Consider marking the camera with a unique ID for easier recovery.

Can a stolen Arlo camera be reused by thieves?

Once reported stolen and removed from your account, a stolen Arlo camera cannot be reused by thieves without factory resetting it, which requires original account credentials.

Are wireless Arlo cameras more prone to theft than wired ones?

Wireless Arlo cameras are slightly easier to steal due to lack of cabling, but their portability also allows strategic placement in hard-to-reach areas. Always use anti-theft mounting solutions.