Can Thieves Steal Your Arlo Pro Camera Find Out Now

Yes, thieves can steal your Arlo Pro camera if it’s not properly secured, as these devices are valuable and easy targets when mounted in accessible areas. Using tamper-resistant mounts, enabling motion alerts, and pairing with a visible security sign can drastically reduce the risk of theft—stay proactive to protect your investment.

Key Takeaways

• Secure mounting is critical: Use tamper-proof screws to deter quick theft.
• Enable two-factor authentication: Protect your Arlo account from unauthorized access.
• Check camera visibility: Position cameras high or out of easy reach.
• Use local storage backups: SD cards reduce reliance on cloud-only recordings.
• Monitor activity zones: Set alerts for unusual movement around camera areas.
• Disable Wi-Fi when away: Prevents hacking if the camera is stolen.

Can Thieves Steal Your Arlo Pro Camera? Let’s Talk Real Risks

Imagine this: You’re at home, sipping coffee, when your phone buzzes. It’s an alert from your Arlo Pro camera—someone’s lurking near your front door. You open the app, and sure enough, a shadowy figure is checking out your porch. You feel that familiar rush of relief knowing you’ve got eyes on your property. But then, a new fear creeps in: What if they just take the camera? It’s a question I’ve heard more times than I can count, and honestly, it’s a valid concern. After all, you’ve invested in this tech to keep your home safe, not to gift it to a thief.

The Arlo Pro camera is a popular pick for home security, thanks to its wireless design, HD video, and motion alerts. But that same convenience—like being battery-powered and mountable almost anywhere—can make it a target. So, can thieves steal your Arlo Pro? The short answer is: yes, they can. But the longer, more reassuring answer is: they probably won’t, if you take a few smart steps. In this post, we’ll break down the real risks, how thieves might try to swipe your gear, and—most importantly—how to stop them in their tracks. Think of this as a friendly chat over a backyard fence, where I’m sharing what’s worked for me and what hasn’t.

How Thieves Target Arlo Pro Cameras (And Why They Might Bother)

First, let’s get inside the mind of a thief. Most aren’t master criminals plotting a heist—they’re opportunists looking for easy wins. And your Arlo Pro camera? It’s not just a tool for security; it’s a potential payday. Here’s how and why they might go after it.

The Allure of a Wireless Camera

Wireless cameras like the Arlo Pro are designed to be easy to install and move. But that same flexibility is a double-edged sword. Unlike wired systems, which are bolted down and connected to a power source, Arlo Pros are often mounted with simple screws or adhesive pads. A quick twist or tug, and they’re gone. I’ve seen this happen in my own neighborhood—a neighbor’s Arlo Pro was swiped right off the side of their house, leaving only a dangling mount.

Thieves know these cameras have value. A quick search on online marketplaces shows used Arlo Pros selling for $50-$100 (depending on the model). For someone looking to make a quick buck, that’s a tempting score. Plus, they’re compact and easy to hide, unlike bulky traditional security cameras.

Common Theft Tactics

So, how do they do it? Here are the most common methods:

• Grabbing and running: The simplest tactic. A thief spots the camera, yanks it off, and bolts. This works best with poorly secured mounts or cameras placed in low-traffic areas.
• Using tools: Some thieves bring screwdrivers or pliers to unscrew mounts. This is slower but stealthier—especially if the camera is in a hard-to-reach spot.
• Cutting the power (if using a plug-in model): Arlo Pro models like the Pro 3 or Pro 4 can use a power adapter. If the cable is exposed, a thief might cut it, then take the camera when the battery dies.
• Blocking the signal: Less common but still a risk. Thieves might use signal jammers to disable Wi-Fi, then remove the camera when it’s offline (more on this later).

Here’s a real-world example: A friend of mine installed an Arlo Pro under their carport. It was a great spot for catching package thieves—until one night, the camera vanished. The thief didn’t even bother with the mount; they just pulled the camera off the adhesive pad (which, in hindsight, wasn’t rated for outdoor use) and walked away. Total time: under 10 seconds.

How Arlo’s Design Makes Theft Harder (But Not Impossible)

Arlo’s engineers aren’t oblivious to theft risks. The system has several built-in defenses—but they’re not foolproof. Let’s break down what works and what doesn’t.

The Mounting System: Friend or Foe?

The Arlo Pro uses a magnetic ball mount, which is great for adjusting angles but can be a weakness. The camera snaps onto the mount with a strong magnet, but it’s not locked in place. A determined yank can pull it off. Arlo offers a locking mount (sold separately) that screws into the camera’s base, making it much harder to remove without the right tool. But many people skip this upgrade, thinking it’s overkill.

Pro tip: If you’re in a high-theft area, always use the locking mount. It’s a small investment for peace of mind. For extra security, add a drop of threadlocker (like Loctite) to the screw—this makes it harder to unscrew even with a tool.

Battery vs. Wired: A Trade-Off

The Arlo Pro’s battery-powered design means no exposed wires, but it also means the camera can be removed and taken elsewhere to recharge (and potentially sold). Wired models (like the Arlo Pro 4 with a power adapter) are harder to steal because the cable acts as a tether. But if the cable is cut or unplugged, the camera becomes fair game.

Example: My neighbor uses a Pro 4 with a power adapter. The cable runs through a hole in the wall and is secured with a cable clamp. Even if someone cuts the cable outside, the clamp makes it hard to pull the camera away. It’s a simple fix, but it adds a layer of protection.

Tamper Detection: A Hidden Hero

All Arlo Pro models have a tamper detection feature. If the camera is moved or removed from its mount, it sends an alert to your phone and starts recording. This can deter thieves (who don’t want to be caught on video) or at least give you evidence if the camera is stolen.

But here’s the catch: Tamper detection only works if the camera is still powered. If a thief cuts the power cable or removes the battery, the alert won’t trigger. That’s why it’s critical to combine this feature with physical security measures.

Real-World Theft Prevention: What Actually Works

Okay, so now you know the risks and Arlo’s built-in defenses. But what really stops a thief? I’ve tested a bunch of methods—some genius, some duds—and here’s what’s actually effective.

1. Secure the Mount (Seriously, Don’t Skip This)

As mentioned, the locking mount is your best first line of defense. But you can go further:

• Use security screws: Replace the standard screws with tamper-resistant ones (like Torx or hex screws). These require special tools to remove, which most thieves won’t have.
• Adhesive + screws: For extra hold, use outdoor-rated adhesive tape (like 3M VHB) and screws. This makes it much harder to pull the camera off.
• Hide the mount: Install the camera in a spot that’s awkward to reach, like under an eave or behind a downspout. Thieves are lazy—they’ll move on to an easier target.

My experience: I once installed an Arlo Pro on a second-story balcony using security screws and adhesive. A year later, it’s still there—even after a storm and a few curious raccoons.

2. Camouflage and Deception

Thieves look for obvious cameras. Make yours less noticeable:

• Paint the mount: Match the mount to your wall color. A black mount on a white wall stands out; a white mount on a white wall? Not so much.
• Use decoy cameras: Pair your real Arlo Pro with a fake camera (like a dummy dome camera). Thieves might steal the decoy and leave the real one alone.
• Angle it subtly: Point the camera at a less obvious angle. For example, instead of facing the front door directly, angle it slightly to cover the door and the side yard. It’s less obvious but still effective.

Example: A friend painted her Arlo Pro’s mount the same color as her brick wall. When I visited, I didn’t even notice the camera until she pointed it out.

3. Signal and Cloud Security

Even if a thief steals your camera, they can’t access your footage if it’s stored securely. Here’s how to protect your data:

• Enable 2FA: Arlo’s two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a code to your login process. This stops thieves from accessing your account if they steal your camera.
• Use cloud storage: Arlo’s cloud plans (like the Arlo Secure plan) store footage off-site. Even if the camera is stolen, your recordings are safe.
• Check local storage: Some Arlo models support microSD cards. If you use one, make sure it’s encrypted. A thief could remove the card and watch your footage.

Pro tip: Set up a “theft alert” in Arlo’s app. If the camera goes offline unexpectedly, you’ll get a push notification. This lets you act fast—like calling the police or checking your home.

What to Do If Your Arlo Pro Is Stolen (And How to Recover)

Okay, let’s say the worst happens. Your Arlo Pro is gone. Don’t panic—there are steps you can take to recover it or at least minimize the damage.

Step 1: Check the Last Known Location

Open the Arlo app and look for the camera’s last recorded location. If it’s still connected to Wi-Fi, you might see where it was when it was stolen. This can help you (or the police) track it down.

Example: A user in a Facebook group shared that their Arlo Pro was stolen from their porch. The app showed the camera was still online—but at a different address. They called the police, who found it at a neighbor’s house (the thief had given it to a friend).

Step 2: Report It to Arlo and the Police

Contact Arlo support. They can flag the camera’s serial number, making it harder to reactivate. Then, file a police report. Include the camera’s serial number and any footage of the theft. This is crucial for insurance claims.

Tip: Keep your camera’s serial number handy (you can find it on the box or in the app). Take a photo of it and store it in a safe place.

Step 3: Check Online Marketplaces

Search sites like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist for your camera’s model. Thieves often try to sell stolen gear quickly. If you find it, don’t confront the seller—call the police instead.

Step 4: Learn and Upgrade

After the theft, reassess your setup. Maybe you need:

• A more secure mount
• Additional cameras to cover blind spots
• A higher-tier Arlo Secure plan for better cloud storage

My take: I had a camera stolen once (a different brand). After that, I upgraded to Arlo Pro with a locking mount and 2FA. It’s been three years, and I’ve had zero issues.

Comparing Arlo Pro to Other Security Cameras: Theft Risks

Not all security cameras are created equal when it comes to theft resistance. Let’s compare the Arlo Pro to other popular options.

Camera Model	Mount Type	Battery/Wired	Theft Risk Level	Best For
Arlo Pro	Magnetic (locking mount available)	Battery or wired	Medium	Flexible placement, renters
Google Nest Cam (battery)	Wall mount (screws)	Battery	Medium	Indoor/outdoor, Google ecosystem
Ring Spotlight Cam	Wall or ceiling mount (screws)	Battery or wired	Medium-High	Outdoor, motion-activated lights
Wyze Cam v3	Wall mount (screws)	Wired (power adapter)	Low	Indoor, budget-friendly
Arlo Essential Spotlight	Magnetic (locking mount available)	Battery	Medium	Affordable, simple setup

Key takeaways:

• Wired cameras (like the Wyze Cam v3) are harder to steal because the cable acts as a tether.
• Cameras with non-removable mounts (like the Google Nest Cam) are less tempting to thieves.
• Arlo Pro’s flexibility is a strength but also a vulnerability—use the locking mount to level up.

Final Thoughts: Can You Keep Your Arlo Pro Safe?

So, back to the big question: Can thieves steal your Arlo Pro camera? Yes, they can. But with the right precautions, the odds shift heavily in your favor. Think of it like locking your car—you don’t do it because you expect a thief to target you every day, but because it only takes one.

The truth is, most thieves are lazy. They’ll move on if your camera is secured, hidden, or just not worth the effort. By using a locking mount, tamper-resistant screws, and smart placement, you’re making your home a harder target. Add in Arlo’s tamper detection and cloud storage, and you’ve got a system that’s not just theft-resistant—it’s thief-annoying.

At the end of the day, no security system is 100% foolproof. But the Arlo Pro, when set up correctly, is as close as you’ll get without turning your home into a fortress. And hey, if you’re still worried? Start small. Secure one camera, test the alerts, and build from there. You’ve got this.

Remember: The goal isn’t to eliminate risk entirely (that’s impossible), but to make it so inconvenient that thieves look elsewhere. Your Arlo Pro can be a powerful tool—not just for catching crime, but for stopping it before it starts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can thieves steal your Arlo Pro camera?

Yes, thieves can physically steal your Arlo Pro camera if it’s not properly secured, especially since it’s a wireless outdoor model. However, Arlo’s anti-theft features like tamper detection and cloud recording can deter or help identify culprits.

How can I prevent my Arlo Pro camera from being stolen?

Secure your camera with Arlo’s anti-theft mount or a compatible third-party locking mount to make removal difficult. Additionally, install it in a hard-to-reach spot and enable motion alerts to monitor suspicious activity.

Does Arlo Pro notify you if someone tries to steal it?

Yes, Arlo Pro cameras have tamper-detection alerts that notify you via the app if someone tries to dismount or cover the device. This feature helps you act quickly if a thief targets your camera.

Is my Arlo Pro footage safe if the camera is stolen?

Yes, your footage is stored securely in the cloud (if subscribed) or on a local base station, so thieves can’t access recordings even if they steal the camera. Always ensure your subscription is active for uninterrupted cloud backup.

Are Arlo Pro cameras easy to steal compared to wired models?

Wireless cameras like the Arlo Pro are more vulnerable to theft than wired ones, but their compact design and anti-theft mounts reduce the risk. Proper installation and location choice are key to deterring thieves.

Can I track my stolen Arlo Pro camera?

Arlo Pro cameras don’t have built-in GPS, but you can check the last recorded location via the app before it was taken. Pair it with smart home integrations or third-party tracking devices for added security.