Can Arlo Security Cameras Be Hacked What You Need to Know

Yes, Arlo security cameras can be hacked if not properly secured, but the risk is significantly reduced when users enable two-factor authentication, use strong passwords, and keep firmware updated. Arlo employs end-to-end encryption and regular security patches, making it a reliable choice when best practices are followed—stay vigilant to keep your home truly safe.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras can be hacked if default passwords aren’t changed immediately.
• Always update firmware to patch security vulnerabilities and protect your system.
• Use two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of account protection.
• Secure your Wi-Fi network with WPA3 encryption to deter intrusions.
• Monitor account activity regularly for suspicious logins or access attempts.
• Disable remote access if not needed to reduce exposure to online threats.

Can Arlo Security Cameras Be Hacked? What You Need to Know

Imagine this: You’ve just installed your shiny new Arlo security camera to keep an eye on your home. You feel safe, secure, and in control—until you read a news headline about another smart device being hacked. Suddenly, that sense of security starts to wobble. You start wondering, Can Arlo security cameras be hacked? And more importantly, should I be worried?

You’re not alone. As smart home tech becomes more common, so do concerns about privacy and cybersecurity. Arlo is one of the most trusted names in home security, known for its sleek designs, easy setup, and cloud-based video storage. But no system is 100% immune to digital threats. Whether you’re a tech newbie or a seasoned smart home user, understanding how secure your Arlo system really is—and what you can do to protect it—is crucial. In this post, we’ll dive into the real risks, how Arlo protects you, and practical steps you can take to keep your home (and your privacy) safe. No fear-mongering, no hype—just honest, actionable info.

How Arlo Security Cameras Work and Where Vulnerabilities Might Exist

The Basics of Arlo’s Security Ecosystem

Before we talk about hacking, let’s break down how Arlo works. Most Arlo cameras are wireless, battery-powered, and connect to your home Wi-Fi through a base station (like the Arlo SmartHub or directly via Wi-Fi for newer models). They record video when triggered by motion or sound, then send that footage to the cloud or a local storage device (like a USB drive connected to the hub).

The Arlo app—available on iOS and Android—lets you view live feeds, review recordings, and get alerts. It’s all designed to be user-friendly, but that convenience comes with digital connections that, if not properly secured, can be exploited.

Potential Attack Vectors: Where Hacks Could Happen

No system is bulletproof, and Arlo’s setup has several potential weak points. Here’s where hackers could theoretically gain access:

• Wi-Fi Network: If your home Wi-Fi is weak or unsecured, a hacker could intercept data between your camera and the router. Think of it like eavesdropping on a conversation.
• Cloud Storage: Arlo stores video in the cloud by default (unless you use local storage). If Arlo’s servers or your cloud account are compromised, your footage could be exposed.
• Arlo App and Account: Your Arlo account is the gateway to your cameras. If someone guesses your password or uses stolen login details, they can view your feeds or even disable cameras.
• Camera Firmware: Outdated firmware may contain bugs or security flaws that hackers can exploit to take control of the device.
• Phishing and Social Engineering: Hackers don’t always need tech skills. Tricking you into giving up your login details via fake emails or websites is a common tactic.

For example, in 2020, a security researcher found a vulnerability in Arlo’s API (the software that lets the app talk to the cameras) that could allow unauthorized access to live streams. Arlo quickly patched it, but it highlights that even trusted brands can have blind spots.

Real-World Cases: Have Arlo Cameras Actually Been Hacked?

Documented Incidents and Security Researcher Findings

While Arlo hasn’t had a major public data breach like some larger tech companies, there have been documented cases of vulnerabilities and real-world exploits.

In 2017, security researcher Ken Munro from Pen Test Partners discovered that older Arlo base stations used unencrypted HTTP connections, allowing attackers on the same network to intercept login credentials. Arlo responded by updating the firmware to use HTTPS (encrypted connections) and encouraged users to update their devices.

Another case involved a man in Texas who reported that someone accessed his Arlo camera and used it to shout obscenities at his children. After investigation, it turned out he had used a weak, reused password across multiple sites. His account was likely compromised via a credential-stuffing attack—where hackers use login details leaked from other breaches to try and break into unrelated accounts.

These stories aren’t meant to scare you. They’re meant to show that most Arlo hacks aren’t due to flaws in the cameras themselves, but in how people use and secure them.

How Common Are These Attacks?

It’s important to keep things in perspective. Arlo has millions of users, and widespread hacking incidents are rare. According to Arlo’s 2022 transparency report, they received fewer than 100 reports of unauthorized access globally—mostly tied to weak passwords or shared accounts.

Compare that to the sheer number of Arlo cameras in use, and the risk appears low. But low doesn’t mean zero. And if your camera is hacked, the personal cost—emotional distress, privacy violation, potential safety risks—can be very high.

As one Reddit user put it: “I didn’t think it would happen to me… until I saw a stranger’s face in my living room camera feed. It wasn’t Arlo’s fault. It was mine for using ‘password123’.”

How Arlo Protects Your Cameras: Built-in Security Features

End-to-End Encryption and Secure Data Handling

Arlo has invested heavily in security, and many of their newer models include strong protections:

• TLS Encryption: Data between your camera and the Arlo cloud is encrypted using Transport Layer Security (TLS), the same standard used by banks and email providers.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): You can enable 2FA in the Arlo app. This means even if someone steals your password, they’ll need a second verification step (like a code from your phone) to log in.
• Secure Boot and Firmware Signing: Arlo cameras verify the authenticity of firmware updates. This prevents hackers from installing malicious software disguised as an update.
• Local Storage Option: Models like the Arlo Pro 4 and Ultra 2 can store footage locally on a USB drive. If you don’t use the cloud, there’s no data to hack remotely.

Arlo also uses Amazon Web Services (AWS) for cloud storage, which is one of the most secure and reliable cloud platforms in the world. AWS has multiple layers of physical and digital security, including data encryption at rest and in transit.

Regular Security Updates and Bug Bounties

Arlo runs a bug bounty program with HackerOne, inviting ethical hackers to find and report vulnerabilities. This proactive approach helps them fix issues before criminals can exploit them.

They also release firmware updates regularly. For example, in 2021, Arlo patched a vulnerability that could allow unauthorized access to live streams by updating the API and enforcing stricter session controls.

But here’s the catch: these protections only work if you keep your devices updated. If you ignore update notifications, you’re missing out on critical security fixes.

User Privacy Controls

Arlo gives you control over who sees your data. You can:

• Set sharing permissions for family members
• Disable cloud recording for specific cameras
• Delete recordings manually or automatically after a set time
• Review login history and active devices in your account

These features help you stay in control and reduce the risk of accidental exposure.

How to Prevent Your Arlo Cameras from Being Hacked

Use Strong, Unique Passwords and Enable 2FA

This is the #1 rule. Never use simple passwords like “123456” or “arlo2023”. Instead, use a password manager to create and store long, random passwords (e.g., xK9#mP2!qW8&).

And always enable two-factor authentication in the Arlo app. It takes 30 seconds to set up and adds a massive layer of protection. Think of it like a deadbolt on your digital front door.

Keep Firmware and Apps Updated

Set your Arlo cameras to auto-update firmware. Go to Settings > My Devices > [Camera Name] > Device Info > Firmware and enable automatic updates.

Also, keep your Arlo app updated on your phone. App updates often include security patches and bug fixes.

Secure Your Wi-Fi Network

Your home Wi-Fi is the backbone of your smart home. If it’s weak, your cameras are at risk. Here’s how to strengthen it:

• Use WPA3 encryption (or WPA2 if WPA3 isn’t available)
• Change the default router password
• Use a strong, unique Wi-Fi password
• Set up a guest network for visitors (so they can’t access your cameras)
• Consider a network firewall or router with built-in security (like Eero, Netgear Armor, or ASUS AiProtection)

Bonus tip: If you have a large home, use a mesh Wi-Fi system to ensure strong signal everywhere—weak signals can cause cameras to reconnect frequently, increasing exposure to network attacks.

Limit Cloud Exposure

If you’re extra cautious, use local storage instead of the cloud. This means your footage never leaves your home. Just plug a USB drive into your Arlo base station and set it to record locally.

Keep in mind: local storage won’t survive a power outage or physical theft. So it’s a trade-off between privacy and reliability.

If you do use the cloud, enable encryption at rest (available in Arlo Secure plans) and set recordings to auto-delete after 30 days to minimize data exposure.

Monitor Account Activity

Check your Arlo login history regularly. Go to Settings > Account > Security > Login History. If you see a login from an unknown device or location, change your password immediately and enable 2FA if you haven’t already.

You can also set up alerts for new device logins to get notified in real time.

What to Do If Your Arlo Camera Is Hacked

Immediate Steps to Take

If you suspect your camera has been compromised, act fast:

1. Disconnect the camera from Wi-Fi or power it off.
2. Change your Arlo password using a secure device (not the one you used for Arlo).
3. Enable 2FA if it’s not already on.
4. Log out of all devices in your account settings.
5. Check for firmware updates and install them.
6. Review your recordings for signs of tampering or unauthorized access.

Then, contact Arlo Support. They can help you secure your account and investigate the incident.

Reporting the Incident

Report the hack to Arlo via their support portal. They take security seriously and may use your report to improve their systems.

If the hack involved threats, harassment, or illegal activity, contact local law enforcement. In the U.S., you can also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Preventing Future Attacks

After a hack, it’s time to level up your security:

• Use a password manager for all accounts
• Enable 2FA everywhere (email, banking, social media)
• Set up a separate email just for smart home devices
• Consider a VPN for your home network to add another layer of encryption

And remember: security is a habit, not a one-time fix. Check your settings every few months, just like you’d check your smoke detector.

Comparing Arlo to Other Security Cameras: Is It More or Less Secure?

Let’s put Arlo in context. How does it stack up against competitors like Ring, Nest, and Eufy?

Brand	End-to-End Encryption	2FA Support	Local Storage Option	Bug Bounty Program	Notable Security Incident
Arlo	Yes (cloud only)	Yes	Yes (select models)	Yes (HackerOne)	2020 API vulnerability (patched)
Ring	Yes (with subscription)	Yes	No (cloud only)	Yes	Multiple incidents (2019, 2020)
Nest	Yes	Yes	Yes (via SD card)	Yes (Google VRP)	Few reported cases
Eufy	Yes (local only)	Yes	Yes (no cloud)	No	2022 data leak (local footage briefly exposed)

From this table, you can see that Arlo holds its own. It offers strong encryption, 2FA, and a bug bounty program—features that match or exceed most competitors. The main trade-off is that cloud encryption isn’t end-to-end unless you pay for Arlo Secure, while Eufy offers full end-to-end encryption by storing everything locally.

But Arlo’s proactive security updates and transparency about incidents make it a solid choice for security-conscious users.

Final Thoughts: Should You Worry About Arlo Being Hacked?

So, back to the big question: Can Arlo security cameras be hacked? The short answer is: yes, but it’s rare—and mostly preventable.

Arlo has strong built-in security, but like any internet-connected device, it depends on how you use it. A weak password, outdated firmware, or unsecured Wi-Fi can turn a secure camera into a vulnerable one.

The good news? You’re in control. By using strong passwords, enabling 2FA, keeping devices updated, and monitoring your account, you can reduce the risk to near zero.

Think of it like locking your front door. Arlo gives you the deadbolt, but you have to turn the key. With a little effort, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your home—and your privacy—is truly protected.

And if you ever feel uneasy, remember: security isn’t about perfection. It’s about awareness, action, and staying one step ahead. Your Arlo camera isn’t just a tool—it’s part of your home’s safety net. Treat it with care, and it’ll have your back for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arlo security cameras be hacked?

While no security system is 100% hack-proof, Arlo cameras use strong encryption, two-factor authentication, and regular firmware updates to minimize hacking risks. However, vulnerabilities can occur if users neglect security best practices like updating passwords or ignoring software patches.

How do I prevent my Arlo camera from being hacked?

Secure your Arlo camera by enabling two-factor authentication, using a strong, unique password, and installing firmware updates promptly. Avoid sharing login details and ensure your home Wi-Fi network is protected with WPA3 encryption.

What are the signs my Arlo camera has been hacked?

Unusual activity like the camera turning on/off unexpectedly, strange noises in audio feeds, or unfamiliar devices accessing your Arlo account may indicate a breach. Check your account activity log immediately if you notice these signs.

Are older Arlo models more vulnerable to hacking?

Older Arlo models may have weaker security protocols or lack support for the latest firmware updates, increasing hacking risks. Arlo typically prioritizes newer models for updates, so consider upgrading if your camera is several years old.

Can a weak Wi-Fi network compromise my Arlo camera’s security?

Yes, a poorly secured Wi-Fi network can expose your Arlo camera to hacking. Use a strong Wi-Fi password, enable encryption (like WPA3), and create a separate network for IoT devices to reduce risks.

Does Arlo notify users of potential hacking attempts?

Arlo sends alerts for suspicious login attempts via email or app notifications if two-factor authentication is enabled. Regularly monitor these alerts and review connected devices in your Arlo account to detect unauthorized access.