Can Arlo Pro 2 Cameras Be Hacked What You Need to Know

Yes, Arlo Pro 2 cameras can be hacked if left unprotected, but built-in encryption and strong security practices greatly reduce the risk. Cybercriminals may exploit weak passwords or outdated firmware, making regular updates and two-factor authentication essential to safeguard your home surveillance system.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo Pro 2 cameras can be hacked if default passwords are not changed immediately.
• Always enable two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of account security.
• Update firmware regularly to patch known vulnerabilities and improve protection.
• Use strong, unique passwords for your Arlo account and Wi-Fi network.
• Disable remote access when not needed to reduce exposure to threats.
• Monitor login activity for suspicious access attempts and act quickly.

Can Arlo Pro 2 Cameras Be Hacked? What You Need to Know

Imagine this: you’re sitting on your couch, sipping coffee, and checking your home security app. Everything looks calm. Then, a notification pops up — someone accessed your camera feed… from a device you don’t recognize. Your heart drops. You bought the Arlo Pro 2 for peace of mind, but now you’re wondering: Can Arlo Pro 2 cameras be hacked?

It’s a fair question — and one more people are asking as smart home tech becomes a staple in our lives. The Arlo Pro 2, with its 1080p HD video, night vision, motion detection, and two-way audio, is one of the most popular indoor/outdoor security cameras on the market. But popularity doesn’t equal invincibility. In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into the real risks, how Arlo protects your privacy, what vulnerabilities exist, and what you can do to keep your home safe — not just from intruders at the door, but from digital ones too. Whether you’re a tech newbie or a seasoned smart home pro, this is the honest, no-nonsense guide you need.

How Secure Is the Arlo Pro 2? A Look at Built-in Protections

When you buy a security camera, you’re not just paying for video quality — you’re paying for trust. And Arlo has put serious effort into building a secure ecosystem. But let’s be real: no device is 100% unhackable. The question isn’t if a device can be hacked, but how hard it is — and what’s being done to stop it.

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

The Arlo Pro 2 supports end-to-end encryption (E2EE) — but only if you pay for Arlo Smart, their subscription service. Without it, your video feeds are encrypted in transit (between camera and cloud), but not at rest (on Arlo’s servers). With E2EE, even Arlo can’t access your footage unless you unlock it with your password. This is a big deal. Think of it like sending a locked box: only you have the key. Without E2EE, it’s more like a sealed envelope — still protected, but someone with access to the post office (Arlo’s servers) could, in theory, open it under certain legal or breach conditions.

Tip: If privacy is a top concern, enable E2EE. It’s not free, but it’s one of the strongest defenses against unauthorized access. You can set it up in the Arlo app under “Settings” > “My Devices” > “Video Encryption.”

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – Your First Line of Defense

Arlo offers two-factor authentication (2FA) via email or authenticator apps like Google Authenticator or Authy. This means even if someone guesses your password, they still need a second verification step — like a one-time code sent to your phone — to log in.

Here’s a real-world example: A friend of mine, let’s call her Sarah, reused the same password across several accounts. When one of her old social media accounts got breached, hackers used that password to try logging into her Arlo account. But because she had 2FA enabled, the login failed — and she got an alert. She changed her password immediately. Without 2FA, she might not have known until it was too late.

Action step: Enable 2FA today. It takes two minutes and could save you from a major headache.

Firmware Updates – Patch the Holes

Arlo regularly releases firmware updates for the Pro 2. These aren’t just for new features — they often include critical security patches. For example, in 2021, Arlo patched a vulnerability that could allow attackers to intercept unencrypted local network traffic (more on that later).

Your camera updates automatically if connected to Wi-Fi, but it’s smart to manually check for updates every few months. Go to the Arlo app, tap your camera, and look for “Firmware Update.” If it says “Up to date,” you’re good. If not, install it immediately.

Real Hacking Risks and Past Vulnerabilities

So, has the Arlo Pro 2 ever been hacked? The short answer: yes — but not in the way you might think. No, hackers aren’t breaking into Arlo’s headquarters and stealing millions of videos. But there have been exploitable vulnerabilities — and some real incidents that taught us important lessons.

The 2019 “Local Network” Vulnerability

In 2019, security researchers found a flaw in the Arlo Pro 2’s local network communication. When the camera was on the same Wi-Fi network as a hacker (say, a neighbor with access to your router or a public network), they could potentially intercept unencrypted data packets — including motion alerts and video thumbnails — using tools like Wireshark.

This wasn’t a remote hack — you had to be on the same network. But if your Wi-Fi is weak or shared (like in an apartment building or with guests), it’s a real risk. Arlo patched this in a firmware update, but older cameras that weren’t updated remained vulnerable.

Lesson: Keep your firmware updated. And if you’re on a shared network, use a guest Wi-Fi for your cameras.

Account Takeovers via Phishing and Password Reuse

One of the most common ways Arlo cameras get “hacked” isn’t through the camera itself — it’s through the user. Phishing scams, weak passwords, and reused credentials are the real weak link.

For example, in 2020, a hacker group used stolen credentials from a data breach on a different site to log into Arlo accounts. They found hundreds of users using the same email and password across platforms. Once in, they accessed live feeds and even disabled cameras.

This isn’t a flaw in Arlo — it’s a flaw in human behavior. But it shows how a single weak link can compromise your entire system.

Tip: Use a unique password for your Arlo account. Use a password manager like Bitwarden or 1Password to generate and store strong, random passwords. And never click on suspicious links claiming to be from Arlo — they might be phishing attempts.

Third-Party App Risks

Some users integrate Arlo with third-party smart home platforms like IFTTT, SmartThings, or Home Assistant. While convenient, these integrations can introduce risks. A poorly coded app or a compromised API key could give hackers a backdoor.

A user once shared on Reddit that after linking his Arlo to a free IFTTT applet, he noticed strange login attempts from overseas. He later discovered the applet had a security flaw that exposed API keys. He revoked the key and removed the integration — and the attempts stopped.

Action step: Only use trusted integrations. Review app permissions regularly, and revoke access to anything you don’t use.

Common Misconceptions About Arlo Pro 2 Security

When it comes to smart cameras, myths spread faster than facts. Let’s clear up some common misunderstandings — because believing the wrong thing could put you at risk.

“If I don’t use the cloud, I’m 100% safe.”

Some people think using the Arlo Pro 2 with a local base station (like the Arlo SmartHub) and skipping the cloud makes them unhackable. Not quite.

While local storage (on a microSD card or base station) reduces exposure to remote attacks, it doesn’t eliminate risk. Your base station is still connected to your Wi-Fi. If a hacker gains access to your network — say, by exploiting a router vulnerability or using a weak password — they could access the base station and view or delete footage.

Also, if you use the Arlo app to view footage remotely, that data still passes through Arlo’s servers — unless you use local-only viewing (which limits functionality).

Bottom line: Local storage is safer, but not a magic shield. You still need strong Wi-Fi security, 2FA, and regular updates.

“Arlo cameras are always recording — so hackers could see everything.”

Actually, the Arlo Pro 2 only records when motion is detected (unless you enable continuous recording with a paid plan). This means the camera isn’t constantly streaming — it’s only active when needed. That reduces the amount of data exposed at any time.

But here’s the catch: if motion detection is triggered (by a pet, a shadow, or a passing car), and you’re not using E2EE, that clip is uploaded to the cloud and stored — where it could be accessed if your account is compromised.

Tip: Adjust motion sensitivity to reduce false alerts. Use activity zones to focus on important areas (like your front door), not the whole yard.

“Only tech geniuses can hack these cameras.”

Not true. Many hacks don’t require advanced skills. A simple phishing email, a reused password, or a weak Wi-Fi network can do the job. In fact, most security breaches are due to user error, not sophisticated hacking.

Think of it like home security: you don’t need a master thief to break in — just an unlocked window. The same goes for smart devices.

How to Harden Your Arlo Pro 2 Against Hacking

Now that we’ve covered the risks, let’s talk solutions. You don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert to make your Arlo Pro 2 much more secure. Here are practical, step-by-step steps you can take today.

Step 1: Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

• Open the Arlo app.
• Tap your profile icon > “Account” > “Two-Factor Authentication.”
• Choose “Authenticator App” (more secure) or “Email.”
• Follow the prompts to set it up.

Use an authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Authy — not SMS. SMS can be intercepted via SIM swapping.

Step 2: Turn On End-to-End Encryption

• Go to “Settings” > “My Devices” > select your camera.
• Tap “Video Encryption” > “Enable E2EE.”
• Follow the setup instructions (you’ll need to re-authenticate).

Note: E2EE requires Arlo Smart subscription (starts at $2.99/month). It’s worth it for the peace of mind.

Step 3: Secure Your Wi-Fi Network

Your router is the gatekeeper to your smart home. If it’s weak, everything behind it is at risk.

• Use WPA3 encryption (or WPA2 if WPA3 isn’t available).
• Change the default router password.
• Use a strong, unique Wi-Fi password (12+ characters, mix of letters, numbers, symbols).
• Set up a separate guest network for visitors and smart devices.

Bonus: Update your router’s firmware regularly. Many routers have automatic updates — enable them.

Step 4: Review Connected Devices and Apps

Check what’s linked to your Arlo account:

• In the Arlo app, go to “Settings” > “Connected Services.”
• Remove any third-party apps you don’t use (like old IFTTT applets).
• Check “Active Devices” to see which phones, tablets, or computers have access. Log out of any you don’t recognize.

Step 5: Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Never reuse passwords. Use a password manager to generate and store:

• One password for Arlo
• One for your router
• One for your email (which is tied to password resets)

A good password looks like: T7#mK9!pQx$rL2 — random, long, and hard to guess.

Step 6: Monitor for Unusual Activity

Set up alerts:

• Enable login notifications in the Arlo app.
• Check your “Recent Activity” log weekly.
• If you see a login from a strange location or device, change your password immediately.

Comparing Arlo Pro 2 Security to Other Cameras

How does the Arlo Pro 2 stack up against competitors like Ring, Nest, and Eufy? Let’s break it down in a simple comparison table.

Feature	Arlo Pro 2	Ring Spotlight Cam	Google Nest Cam	Eufy SoloCam
End-to-End Encryption	Yes (with Arlo Smart)	No (only local E2EE on select models)	Yes (with Nest Aware)	Yes (always, no subscription)
Two-Factor Authentication	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Local Storage Option	Yes (base station/microSD)	Yes (with Ring Alarm)	No (cloud only)	Yes (microSD only)
Firmware Updates	Automatic	Automatic	Automatic	Automatic
Known Vulnerabilities (Past 3 Years)	1 (patched)	2 (patched)	0	0
Privacy Policy Transparency	Good	Fair	Excellent	Excellent

As you can see, the Arlo Pro 2 holds its own. It’s not the most secure camera on paper (Eufy and Nest offer stronger E2EE), but it’s far from the weakest. The main advantage? Flexibility. You can choose cloud, local, or both — and add E2EE when needed.

One thing to note: Eufy’s always-on E2EE is appealing, but it limits cloud features. Arlo gives you more control — but you have to manage it.

Final Thoughts: Should You Worry About Arlo Pro 2 Being Hacked?

So, can Arlo Pro 2 cameras be hacked? Yes — but not easily, and not if you take basic precautions.

The truth is, the risk isn’t in the camera itself. It’s in the gaps between devices, passwords, and human habits. A weak Wi-Fi network, a reused password, or a missed firmware update can turn your security system into a security risk.

But here’s the good news: you’re in control. By enabling 2FA, turning on E2EE, securing your Wi-Fi, and staying alert, you dramatically reduce the chances of being hacked. The Arlo Pro 2 isn’t perfect — no device is — but it’s a solid, reliable camera with strong security foundations.

Think of it like locking your front door. You wouldn’t leave it wide open and expect no one to walk in. But with a deadbolt, a peephole, and a good neighborhood watch (in this case, 2FA and E2EE), you’re well protected.

So don’t panic. Don’t ditch your camera. Just harden it. Take the steps we’ve covered. Stay informed. And remember: security isn’t a one-time setup — it’s an ongoing habit.

Your home deserves to be safe — inside and online. And with a little effort, your Arlo Pro 2 can help make that happen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arlo Pro 2 cameras be hacked?

While no device is 100% hack-proof, Arlo Pro 2 cameras use encryption, two-factor authentication, and regular firmware updates to minimize hacking risks. Following best security practices significantly reduces vulnerabilities.

How secure are Arlo Pro 2 cameras against hacking attempts?

Arlo Pro 2 cameras employ bank-grade encryption, secure cloud storage, and optional two-factor authentication to protect against unauthorized access. These features make them highly resistant to common hacking methods.

What are the most common ways Arlo Pro 2 cameras could be compromised?

Weak passwords, unpatched firmware, or compromised Wi-Fi networks are the primary vulnerabilities. Avoid reusing passwords and enable automatic updates to reduce these risks.

Does Arlo Pro 2 have any known hacking vulnerabilities?

Arlo has addressed past vulnerabilities through firmware updates, so keeping your cameras updated is critical. No major unpatched security flaws are currently known for the Arlo Pro 2.

How can I protect my Arlo Pro 2 from being hacked?

Use a strong unique password, enable two-factor authentication, and ensure your router and Arlo app are updated. These steps greatly reduce the chance of a successful hack.

What should I do if I suspect my Arlo Pro 2 camera was hacked?

Immediately disconnect the camera, change all account passwords, and check for firmware updates. Contact Arlo support to investigate and secure your system further.