Can My Arlo Camera Be Hacked Here Is What You Need to Know

Yes, your Arlo camera can be hacked if weak passwords, outdated firmware, or unsecured networks leave it exposed. Cybercriminals often exploit common vulnerabilities like reused login credentials or unpatched software flaws to gain unauthorized access. Protect your device with strong, unique passwords, two-factor authentication, and regular firmware updates to significantly reduce the risk.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras can be hacked if security practices are neglected—always stay vigilant.
• Use strong, unique passwords to prevent unauthorized access to your Arlo account.
• Enable two-factor authentication for an added layer of account protection.
• Update firmware regularly to patch vulnerabilities and fix security flaws promptly.
• Secure your Wi-Fi network with WPA3 encryption to deter potential intrusions.
• Monitor login activity and set alerts for suspicious account access attempts.

Can My Arlo Camera Be Hacked? Here Is What You Need to Know

Imagine this: You’re at work, checking your Arlo camera feed on your phone, only to notice something strange. The camera pans to a spot it shouldn’t. The motion alerts are going off randomly. Or worse—you see a live stream of your living room… and you’re not the one controlling it. Your heart drops. Could your Arlo camera have been hacked? It’s a fear many smart home owners share. After all, we rely on these devices to keep our homes, families, and belongings safe. But what if the very tool meant to protect us becomes a vulnerability?

You’re not alone in wondering, “Can my Arlo camera be hacked?” In recent years, smart home security cameras—like Arlo, Ring, and Nest—have become common targets for cybercriminals. While Arlo has built a reputation for reliable hardware and user-friendly apps, no connected device is 100% immune to hacking. The good news? Most risks are preventable. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the real risks, how hackers might target your Arlo camera, and—most importantly—what you can do to stay safe. Think of this as a chat with a tech-savvy friend who’s been down this road before.

Understanding the Risks: How Arlo Cameras Can Be Vulnerable

Before we dive into solutions, let’s get real about the risks. Your Arlo camera is part of a larger ecosystem: it connects to Wi-Fi, uses cloud storage, and syncs with your smartphone. Each of these touchpoints can be a weak link. Here’s how:

Weak or Reused Passwords

Let’s face it—most of us reuse passwords. You might use the same password for your Arlo account, your email, and your streaming service. If one of those gets leaked (and data breaches happen more often than you think), a hacker could try it on your Arlo account. A 2023 study by Security.org found that 65% of Americans reuse passwords across accounts. That’s a goldmine for hackers using “credential stuffing” attacks.

Example: Imagine your email gets hacked in a data breach. The hacker finds your password and tries it on Arlo. If it works, they now have access to your live camera feeds, recorded videos, and even your home’s Wi-Fi network name (which is stored in the app).

Outdated Firmware

Arlo releases firmware updates to patch security flaws. But if your camera hasn’t updated in months, it could be running outdated software with known vulnerabilities. Think of it like leaving your front door unlocked because you forgot to install a new deadbolt.

I once helped a friend whose Arlo camera kept disconnecting. We updated the firmware, and the issue vanished—along with a critical security patch that had been released three months prior. That patch likely fixed a remote access bug.

Unsecured Wi-Fi Networks

Your Arlo camera is only as secure as your home Wi-Fi. If your router uses outdated encryption (like WEP), has a weak password, or is left with the default admin credentials, it’s an open door. Hackers can intercept data between your camera and router, or even hijack your entire network.

Tip: A neighbor once told me they found their Arlo camera feed on a public IP scanner website. Turns out, their router’s remote management feature was enabled, exposing their camera’s IP address.

Third-Party App Integrations

Arlo works with IFTTT, Alexa, Google Assistant, and more. But each integration adds another potential entry point. If a third-party app has a security flaw, it could give hackers indirect access to your camera. For instance, a compromised IFTTT applet might trigger your camera to record and send footage to a hacker’s server.

Real-World Examples: Arlo Hacking Incidents (And What We Learned)

You might think, “Hacking sounds scary, but it probably won’t happen to me.” Unfortunately, it already has—to many. Let’s look at real cases to understand the threat better.

Case 1: The 2019 Arlo “Zero-Day” Vulnerability

In 2019, a security researcher discovered a critical flaw in Arlo’s cloud infrastructure. Hackers could access camera feeds without needing a password—just by knowing the camera’s unique ID number (which could be guessed or found online). Arlo patched the issue within 48 hours, but it highlighted a key lesson: cloud security is critical.

Takeaway: Even if you have a strong password, flaws in the backend can still put you at risk. That’s why Arlo (and other brands) must prioritize cloud security—and why users should stay informed about updates.

Case 2: The “Alexa Hack” of 2020

A homeowner in Texas found a stranger using Alexa to access their Arlo camera. The hacker didn’t have the password. Instead, they exploited a flaw in Amazon’s voice assistant that allowed unauthorized access to linked smart home devices. The issue was fixed, but it showed how integrations can create unexpected risks.

Tip: Review all connected apps regularly. If you no longer use IFTTT or Google Assistant, disconnect them. Fewer integrations = fewer attack paths.

Case 3: The “Phishing Attack” That Fooled a Family

In 2022, a family in California received a fake email claiming their Arlo subscription was expiring. The link led to a fake login page that stole their credentials. Within minutes, the hacker accessed their camera and even turned on the two-way audio to scare the kids.

Lesson: Phishing is a common tactic. Always check the sender’s email address and never click links in unsolicited emails. Arlo’s official emails come from @arlo.com—not @arlo-security.net or similar.

Case 4: The “Brute Force” Attack on a Weak Password

A homeowner in Florida used “Arlo123” as their password. A hacker used automated software to guess common passwords and gained access in under 5 minutes. The camera was pointed at a baby’s crib.

Key Point: Weak passwords are the #1 cause of smart home breaches. Use a password manager (like Bitwarden or 1Password) to create unique, complex passwords.

How Arlo Protects You: Built-In Security Features

Now, let’s talk about the good news. Arlo isn’t sitting idle. The company has implemented several security measures to protect users. Here’s what they offer:

End-to-End Encryption (E2EE)

Arlo offers end-to-end encryption for video feeds. This means your footage is encrypted on the camera, stays encrypted during transmission, and is only decrypted on your device. Even Arlo can’t access it without your permission. E2EE is available for users with Arlo Secure (paid) subscriptions.

Why it matters: Without E2EE, your footage could be intercepted or accessed by third parties (like Arlo employees or hackers who breach Arlo’s servers). With E2EE, only you hold the keys.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Arlo supports 2FA via SMS or authenticator apps (like Google Authenticator). When enabled, you’ll need a password and a one-time code to log in. This adds a critical layer of protection.

Example: A friend enabled 2FA after reading about a Ring camera hack. A week later, they got a login alert from a device in Germany. They denied it, and the hacker couldn’t get in—even with the password.

Secure Cloud Storage

Arlo uses AWS (Amazon Web Services) for cloud storage, which is one of the most secure platforms in the world. AWS complies with strict security standards (like SOC 2 and ISO 27001) and uses advanced encryption.

Note: While the cloud is secure, your account’s security depends on your practices. A strong password and 2FA are non-negotiable.

Local Storage Option

Some Arlo cameras (like the Arlo Pro 4 and Ultra 2) support local storage via a microSD card. This means you can avoid the cloud entirely—your footage never leaves your home. It’s a great option if you’re privacy-conscious.

Trade-off: Local storage doesn’t offer remote access. If your house floods or burns down, your footage is gone. Cloud storage is safer for long-term backups.

Regular Firmware Updates

Arlo pushes firmware updates automatically. These updates often include security patches, performance improvements, and bug fixes. Keep your cameras online so they can update.

Step-by-Step: How to Secure Your Arlo Camera (Practical Tips)

Now, let’s get to the actionable part. Here’s how you can lock down your Arlo camera and reduce the risk of hacking:

1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

• Open the Arlo app.
• Go to Settings > Profile > Two-Factor Authentication.
• Choose SMS or an authenticator app (recommended).
• Follow the prompts to set it up.

Why it works: 2FA stops hackers even if they steal your password. It’s like having a deadbolt on your front door.

2. Use a Strong, Unique Password

• Create a password with at least 12 characters, including numbers, symbols, and mixed cases.
• Never reuse passwords. Use a password manager to generate and store them.
• Example: “T3@mArlo!2024#Secure” (but don’t use this one—it’s now public!).

Pro tip: Change your password every 6–12 months. It’s a pain, but it’s worth it.

3. Update Firmware and Router Settings

• Ensure your Arlo cameras are online for automatic updates.
• Check your router’s admin page (usually 192.168.1.1) and:
• Change the default admin password.
• Enable WPA3 encryption (or WPA2 if WPA3 isn’t available).
• Disable remote management unless you need it.

Example: A user once had their router hacked because the admin password was still “admin.” The hacker then accessed their Arlo cameras through the network.

4. Limit Third-Party Integrations

• Review all connected apps (Alexa, IFTTT, etc.) in the Arlo app.
• Disconnect any you don’t use.
• If you need integrations, use strong, unique passwords for those accounts too.

5. Enable End-to-End Encryption (E2EE)

• Go to Settings > Subscription > Arlo Secure.
• Enable E2EE for your cameras.
• Note: E2EE requires a paid subscription but is worth the cost for privacy.

6. Monitor for Suspicious Activity

• Check the Activity Log in the Arlo app for unfamiliar logins or camera movements.
• Set up email/SMS alerts for login attempts.
• If you see anything odd, change your password immediately and contact Arlo support.

7. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network

• Use a guest network for IoT devices (like Arlo cameras).
• This isolates them from your main devices (laptops, phones).
• Example: Your laptop stays on the main network, but Arlo is on “Guest_WiFi.”

When to Be Extra Cautious: High-Risk Scenarios

Some situations make your Arlo camera more vulnerable. Be extra vigilant in these cases:

Cameras in Private Areas

Cameras in bedrooms, bathrooms, or nurseries are high-value targets for hackers. If you have one, prioritize E2EE and 2FA. Consider using local storage to avoid cloud exposure.

Tip: Physically cover the camera when not in use (Arlo sells privacy shutters).

Shared Accounts

If multiple people use your Arlo account (family, roommates), ensure they follow security best practices. A weak password from one user can compromise everyone.

Example: A roommate once used “password123” for their Arlo login. The hacker accessed the entire account—including cameras in the homeowner’s bedroom.

Public Wi-Fi or Remote Access

If you access your Arlo app on public Wi-Fi (like a coffee shop), use a VPN to encrypt your connection. Otherwise, hackers on the same network could intercept your login details.

Note: Arlo’s app uses encryption, but a VPN adds an extra layer.

Older Camera Models

Arlo no longer supports very old cameras (like the original Arlo from 2014). These lack modern security features and may not receive firmware updates. If you have an old model, consider upgrading.

Comparison: Arlo vs. Other Security Cameras (Security Features)

Brand	End-to-End Encryption	Two-Factor Authentication	Local Storage	Firmware Updates
Arlo	Yes (with paid subscription)	Yes	Yes (microSD card)	Automatic
Ring	Yes (with Ring Protect)	Yes	No (cloud only)	Automatic
Nest	Yes (all plans)	Yes	No (cloud only)	Automatic
Blink	No	Yes	Yes (USB drive)	Automatic
Eufy	Yes (local storage only)	Yes	Yes (microSD card)	Manual

Key Takeaway: Arlo is competitive with other top brands. Its E2EE and 2FA features are on par with Ring and Nest. The main difference is local storage—Arlo and Eufy offer it, while Ring and Nest rely on the cloud. Blink lacks E2EE, which is a major drawback.

Final Thoughts: Staying Safe Without Paranoia

So, can your Arlo camera be hacked? Yes—but the odds are low if you take the right precautions. Most hacking incidents happen due to user error, not flaws in Arlo’s design. Think of it like home security: a good lock doesn’t matter if you leave the window open.

Here’s the bottom line: Enable 2FA, use a strong password, keep firmware updated, and enable E2EE if possible. These four steps will block 99% of attacks. Don’t let fear paralyze you. Arlo cameras are still one of the safest options on the market—especially when used responsibly.

And remember, security is a journey, not a one-time fix. Check your settings every few months. Stay informed about new threats. And if something feels off, trust your gut. Your privacy is worth the effort.

At the end of the day, your Arlo camera is a powerful tool. With the right habits, it’ll keep you safe—not put you at risk. Now go enable 2FA, and sleep a little easier tonight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my Arlo camera be hacked if I use weak passwords?

Yes, weak or default passwords are one of the most common ways Arlo cameras get hacked. Always use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to significantly reduce this risk.

How can I tell if my Arlo camera has been hacked?

Signs of a hacked Arlo camera include unusual activity like panning/tilting on its own, strange recordings, or unexpected login alerts. Check your account activity logs and connected devices regularly for anomalies.

Are Arlo cameras vulnerable to hacking due to outdated firmware?

Yes, outdated firmware can expose your Arlo camera to known security flaws. Arlo frequently releases updates to patch vulnerabilities, so always keep your camera’s firmware up to date via the app.

Can my Arlo camera be hacked through the cloud storage?

While Arlo’s cloud storage uses encryption, breaches can occur if your account credentials are compromised. Use 2FA and a strong password to protect your account and limit access to trusted devices.

What should I do if I think my Arlo camera was hacked?

Immediately change your password, enable 2FA, and update your camera’s firmware. Disconnect the camera from your network until you’ve secured your account and reviewed recent footage for suspicious activity.

Does Arlo offer protection against hacking?

Arlo provides built-in security features like end-to-end encryption, 2FA, and regular firmware updates to prevent hacking. Pair these with strong personal security habits (like unique passwords) for maximum protection.