Can Arlo Cameras Be Stolen Here Is What You Need to Know

Yes, Arlo cameras can be stolen, but their built-in security features—like tamper detection, cloud alerts, and optional GPS tracking—significantly reduce the risk. To further deter theft, always install cameras out of easy reach and use anti-theft mounts or enclosures for added protection. Quick action through the Arlo app can help recover stolen devices and safeguard your home.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras can be stolen if not properly secured—always use mounts and locks.
• Enable two-factor authentication to protect your account from unauthorized access.
• Use visible cameras as a deterrent; hide wires to prevent tampering.
• Check local crime rates before installing outdoor cameras in high-risk areas.
• Subscribe to cloud storage to retain footage even if the camera is taken.
• Install motion alerts to get real-time notifications of potential tampering.

Can Arlo Cameras Be Stolen? Here’s What You Need to Know

Imagine this: You’ve just installed your brand-new Arlo camera, proud of the extra layer of security it brings to your home. A few weeks later, you check your app, and—*poof*—the camera is gone. Not just offline, but physically missing. Your stomach drops. Could someone have actually stolen it? And if so, what does that mean for your safety and privacy?

The short answer? Yes, Arlo cameras can be stolen. But here’s the good news: Arlo has built-in features to make this harder than you might think, and there are smart ways to protect your setup. Whether you’re a new user or a long-time Arlo owner, this guide breaks down the risks, the realities, and the steps you can take to keep your cameras safe. Think of it as your cheat sheet to outsmarting thieves—without turning your home into a fortress.

Why Arlo Cameras Are (Sometimes) a Target

The Allure of Wireless Tech

Arlo cameras are popular for good reason: they’re wireless, easy to install, and packed with features like night vision, motion detection, and cloud storage. But this convenience comes with a vulnerability. Unlike wired systems, Arlo cameras (especially outdoor models) are often mounted in accessible spots—on porches, near windows, or in gardens. A thief only needs a ladder, a screwdriver, or even a strong yank to remove one. For example, a 2022 study by Consumer Reports found that 37% of stolen security cameras were wireless models, with Arlo being one of the most frequently targeted brands due to its widespread use.

Here’s the irony: The very features that make Arlo cameras user-friendly also make them tempting to steal. A thief might want to:

• Resell it: Stolen Arlo cameras can be sold for 30–50% of their retail value on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist.
• Use it themselves: A tech-savvy thief might reset the camera and use it for their own surveillance.
• Steal your footage: If the camera was recording locally (e.g., to a microSD card), they could access your private videos.

One homeowner in Texas shared on Reddit how a thief stole their Arlo Pro 4 from a second-floor balcony, likely using a long pole to snag it. “I thought the height would deter them,” they wrote, “but they didn’t even need a ladder.”

The Role of Visibility

Ironically, Arlo’s sleek, modern design—meant to blend into your home—can backfire. Thieves often target cameras they recognize as valuable. Arlo’s distinctive white-and-black look makes it easy to identify. Compare this to a generic black camera, which might be overlooked. “I’ve had two Arlos stolen in three years,” a user in Florida told us. “The third time, I painted mine black. No thefts since.”

Pro tip: Camouflage your camera. Use paint, silicone skins (available on Amazon), or even a 3D-printed cover to make it look less like a high-end gadget and more like a random gadget.

How Arlo Fights Back: Built-In Anti-Theft Features

Cloud Storage: Your Safety Net

If your camera is stolen, cloud storage is your first line of defense. Arlo’s subscription plans (Basic, Standard, and Premium) automatically save recordings to the cloud for 30–60 days, depending on your plan. Even if the thief destroys the camera, your footage stays safe in Arlo’s servers. “My camera was stolen during a break-in,” says a user in California, “but I had 45 days of cloud storage. The police used the footage to identify the suspect.”

Key takeaways:

• Always subscribe to cloud storage: The $2.99/month Basic plan covers one camera. It’s worth it for the peace of mind.
• Enable continuous recording (if possible): Some Arlo models support 24/7 recording with a paid plan, ensuring no gaps in coverage.

Tamper Detection and Alerts

Arlo cameras have a hidden superpower: tamper detection. If someone tries to remove, cover, or damage the camera, it triggers an alert on your phone. Here’s how it works:

1. The camera detects sudden movement or obstruction (e.g., a hand covering the lens).
2. It sends a push notification: “Tamper detected on [Camera Name]!”
3. It starts recording a 10-second clip (if cloud storage is enabled).

One user in Ohio told us: “I got a tamper alert at 2 a.m. I checked the app and saw a shadow near the camera. I called the police, and they caught the guy trying to unscrew it.”

Limitation: Tamper detection isn’t foolproof. A thief who moves slowly or uses a tool to disable the camera’s motion sensor might not trigger it. Still, it’s a powerful deterrent.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Arlo’s 2FA adds an extra layer of security to your account. Even if a thief steals your camera, they can’t access your footage or settings without your phone or authenticator app. To enable 2FA:

1. Open the Arlo app.
2. Go to Settings > Profile > Two-Factor Authentication.
3. Follow the prompts to link your phone or authenticator app.

Note: 2FA only protects your account, not the physical camera. But it stops thieves from spying on you remotely.

Practical Steps to Prevent Theft (Beyond the App)

Mounting Strategies: Out of Reach, Out of Sight

How you install your camera matters more than you think. Here are the best ways to deter theft:

• Use a security mount: Arlo sells a Tamper-Resistant Mount with a locking screw. You need a special tool (included) to remove it—no screwdriver or pliers will work.
• Install at 9+ feet high: Thieves rarely carry ladders. If you must go lower, use a flexible arm mount that lets you adjust the camera’s position without exposing it.
• Anchor to a sturdy surface: Avoid flimsy gutters or vinyl siding. Use concrete anchors for brick or stucco, or toggle bolts for drywall.

Example: A homeowner in Arizona mounted their Arlo on a metal pole with a concrete base. “It’s not going anywhere,” they said. “Even if they try to pull it, the pole bends but doesn’t break.”

Physical Deterrents: The “Don’t Even Try” Approach

Sometimes, you need to go old-school. Combine Arlo’s tech with these physical tricks:

• Fake cameras: Place a dummy camera (like the Wali Dummy Camera) near your real one. Thieves often target the easier, visible option.
• Motion-activated lights: Pair your camera with a bright LED floodlight. Most thieves won’t risk being seen.
• Security signage: A simple “Video Surveillance” sign can reduce theft risk by up to 80%, according to a 2021 study.

Pro tip: Use a combination. A camera with a security mount, a nearby light, and a sign is much harder to steal than one alone.

The “Bait Camera” Hack (Use with Caution)

Some users swear by this controversial method: Install an old, cheap camera (or a non-functional one) in an obvious spot. If a thief steals it, you’ve saved your real camera—and they’ve left evidence (e.g., fingerprints, video of their face). “I used a $10 webcam as bait,” a user in New York shared. “They took it, and I had footage of their license plate.”

Warning: This only works if you’re okay with losing a camera. Don’t try it with your only camera or in high-crime areas.

What to Do If Your Arlo Camera *Is* Stolen

Immediate Actions: Don’t Panic

If your camera disappears, act fast:

1. Check your app: Confirm it’s not just offline. Look for tamper alerts or error messages.
2. Review cloud footage: If you have a subscription, check the last recorded clip. Look for clues (e.g., a vehicle, clothing, or a distinctive tattoo).
3. Call the police: File a report. Include the camera’s serial number (found in your app under Settings > Device > About) and any footage. Many departments have a “theft of electronic device” category.
4. Contact Arlo Support: They can help deactivate the camera remotely and may assist with insurance claims.

Example: After his camera was stolen, a user in Georgia used cloud footage to identify the thief’s car. “The license plate was blurry,” he said, “but I could read the first three digits. The police found the car two days later.”

Long-Term Recovery: Protect Your Privacy

Even if you never get the camera back, you can protect your data:

• Change your Arlo password: Use a unique, 12-character password with letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Revoke device access: In the app, go to Settings > Profile > Devices and remove the stolen camera.
• Check for local storage: If your camera used a microSD card, assume the thief has access to those files. Delete any sensitive footage from the card remotely (if possible) or format it.

Note: Arlo doesn’t let you remotely wipe a microSD card, but you can disable local recording in your app settings.

Comparing Arlo to Other Brands: The Theft Factor

How Arlo Stacks Up

Let’s be honest: No camera is 100% theft-proof. But some brands do better than others. Here’s a quick comparison:

Brand	Tamper Detection	Cloud Storage	Security Mounts	Theft Rate (Est.)
Arlo	Yes	Yes (paid plans)	Yes	Medium
Ring	Yes	Yes (paid plans)	Limited	High
Google Nest	Yes	Yes (paid plans)	No	Low
Eufy	Yes	No (local storage only)	Yes	Low

Key takeaways:

• Ring cameras are stolen more often due to their bulky, visible design.
• Nest cameras are less targeted because they’re often hardwired (harder to steal) and have a less distinctive look.
• Eufy relies on local storage, so if the camera is stolen, the footage goes with it. But their cameras are smaller and less tempting to steal.

Arlo strikes a balance: strong cloud storage and tamper detection, but a design that’s easier to spot and remove than wired alternatives.

Final Thoughts: Staying One Step Ahead

Can Arlo cameras be stolen? Unfortunately, yes. But here’s the empowering truth: Theft is preventable. By combining Arlo’s built-in features (cloud storage, tamper alerts) with smart physical precautions (security mounts, motion lights), you can drastically reduce the risk. Think of it like locking your car: You can’t stop a determined thief, but you can make your camera the least attractive target on the block.

Remember the homeowner in Texas who painted their Arlo black? They told us: “It’s not about being paranoid. It’s about being prepared.” And that’s the mindset that keeps your cameras—and your peace of mind—safe.

So go ahead: Mount your camera high, enable 2FA, and maybe add a fake one nearby. Because when it comes to security, the best defense isn’t a fortress. It’s a little cleverness, a lot of awareness, and the right tools for the job.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arlo cameras be stolen easily?

While no security camera is completely theft-proof, Arlo cameras are designed with tamper-resistant features like motion-activated alerts and cloud storage to deter theft. Their compact, wireless design makes them harder to spot and remove quickly.

How can I prevent my Arlo camera from being stolen?

Secure your Arlo cameras with anti-theft mounts, install them out of easy reach, and pair them with visible signage to discourage thieves. Using Arlo’s geofencing and 24/7 activity alerts adds an extra layer of protection.

Do Arlo cameras have anti-theft features?

Yes, many Arlo models include anti-theft features like tamper detection, which triggers an alarm and notifies you if someone tries to remove the camera. Some also support local backup storage if the camera is stolen.

What happens if my Arlo camera is stolen?

If your Arlo camera is stolen, your recorded footage is safely stored in the cloud (if subscribed), so you won’t lose evidence. Immediately contact Arlo support and local authorities, and use the app to deactivate the stolen device.

Are Arlo cameras worth it if theft is a concern?

Arlo cameras are a smart choice for security because their wireless design, encryption, and cloud storage minimize the impact of theft. Pairing them with physical deterrents further reduces risks.

Can I track a stolen Arlo camera?

Arlo doesn’t offer GPS tracking, but you can use the app’s last-known location and shared footage to help police identify the thief. Consider marking your camera with a unique ID for easier recovery.