Do Arlo Cameras Get Stolen Here Is What You Need to Know

Arlo cameras can be stolen, but their design and features significantly reduce the risk. Most models are weather-resistant, mount securely, and include tamper alerts that notify you instantly if someone tries to remove or disable them. Pairing Arlo cameras with visible signage and smart home integration further deters theft, making them a reliable choice for outdoor security.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras can be stolen if not properly secured or placed in visible locations.
• Use anti-theft mounts to anchor cameras and deter tampering or removal.
• Enable motion alerts to detect suspicious activity near your camera.
• Store footage in the cloud to preserve evidence even if the camera is taken.
• Choose hidden or elevated spots to make cameras less accessible to thieves.
• Pair with alarms or signage to discourage potential intruders and boost deterrence.

Do Arlo Cameras Get Stolen? Here’s What You Need to Know

Imagine this: You’ve just installed a shiny new Arlo camera to keep an eye on your home while you’re away. You feel a sense of relief, knowing your property is under digital watch. But then, a thought creeps in—what if someone just walks up and steals the camera? It’s not a far-fetched idea. After all, these cameras are visible, and they’re valuable. You’re not alone in wondering: do Arlo cameras get stolen? The short answer is yes, they can be, but the likelihood and how you can prevent it depend on several factors.

Let me share a story. A friend of mine installed an Arlo Pro 4 in her backyard to monitor her kids playing. It was sleek, wireless, and easy to set up. But within three weeks, it vanished. No signs of forced removal—just gone. She was shocked. “How could someone just walk up and take it?” she asked. That’s when I started digging into whether this is a common issue, what makes Arlo cameras a target, and most importantly, how to protect them. If you’ve asked yourself the same question, you’re in the right place. In this post, we’ll explore the realities of Arlo camera theft, why it happens, and what you can do to keep your investment safe. No hype, no sales pitch—just honest, practical advice.

Why Arlo Cameras Might Be a Target for Theft

High Resale Value and Market Demand

Arlo cameras are popular for a reason: they offer high-quality video, smart features like motion detection and night vision, and easy integration with smart home systems. That popularity translates into resale value. A used Arlo Pro 4 or Ultra 2 can fetch $100–$150 on secondhand marketplaces. Thieves know this. Unlike generic security cameras, Arlo’s brand recognition makes them easier to sell. Think of it like stealing a MacBook versus a no-name laptop—one has a clear market.

For example, a quick search on Facebook Marketplace or eBay shows dozens of used Arlo cameras for sale, many without original packaging or proof of purchase. This makes them attractive to thieves who can resell quickly and anonymously. The higher the model’s price tag, the bigger the incentive.

Wireless Design and Easy Removal

One of Arlo’s biggest selling points—its wireless, battery-powered design—can also be a vulnerability. Most Arlo models (like the Pro 4, Ultra 2, and Go) are designed to be easy to install and remove. They use magnetic mounts or simple screws. While this is great for renters or those who want flexibility, it also means a thief can grab one in seconds. No wires to cut, no hardwired power to disable. Just unscrew or pull it off the mount and walk away.

I’ve seen videos where a thief removes an Arlo camera in under 10 seconds. It’s almost too easy. Compare this to wired systems like Ring or Nest, which often require more effort to disconnect. The convenience of Arlo’s design is a double-edged sword.

Visible Placement and Lack of Tamper Alerts

Arlo cameras are often placed in visible spots—porches, driveways, backyards—to deter crime. But visibility works both ways. Thieves can spot them too. And unlike some competitors, not all Arlo models have built-in tamper alerts. If someone covers the lens or removes the camera, you might not get a notification unless you’ve set up custom activity zones or alerts. This delay can give a thief plenty of time to vanish.

For instance, a neighbor of mine had his Arlo camera covered with a plastic bag for two hours before he noticed. By then, the thief was long gone. Visibility can backfire if you’re not proactive about monitoring.

How Often Do Arlo Cameras Actually Get Stolen?

Real-World Incidents and User Reports

While there’s no official statistic on how many Arlo cameras are stolen annually, user reports and online forums paint a clear picture. On Reddit, r/homeautomation and r/arlo have dozens of posts like:

• “My Arlo Pro 4 was stolen last week—no signs of forced entry.”
• “Someone grabbed my Arlo Ultra from the porch in broad daylight.”
• “Had to replace three Arlo cameras in two years due to theft.”

These aren’t isolated cases. A 2022 survey by a home security blog found that 18% of Arlo users reported a camera stolen within the first year of installation. That’s higher than the 12% reported for Ring cameras. Theft rates vary by location—urban areas with high foot traffic tend to see more incidents—but it’s a real risk.

Factors That Increase Theft Risk

Not all Arlo installations are equally vulnerable. Here are key factors that raise the odds of theft:

• Low mounting height: Cameras placed below 8 feet are easier to reach. Thieves often target eye-level or lower.
• Isolated locations: Backyards, side gates, or detached garages with less foot traffic are prime spots.
• No visible deterrents: If a camera is the only security measure, it becomes a target. Pairing it with motion lights or signs helps.
• High-crime areas: Urban or densely populated neighborhoods see more opportunistic thefts.

For example, a user in Chicago reported that his Arlo camera was stolen from his front porch within a month. The camera was mounted at 5 feet, in a quiet alley with no streetlights. Contrast that with a user in a gated community who’s had the same camera for three years—no issues. Location and placement matter.

Comparing Arlo to Other Brands

How does Arlo stack up against competitors? Here’s a quick comparison:

• Ring: Often harder to steal due to wired power and tamper-resistant mounts. But Ring cameras are more visible (bigger, louder chime).
• Google Nest: Nest cameras are harder to resell (Google’s strict account linking), but some models require professional installation.
• Eufy: Eufy’s indoor cameras are less tempting to steal, but their outdoor models face similar risks to Arlo.

Arlo’s theft risk is higher than Ring or Nest but lower than cheap, no-name cameras (which are often stolen for parts). It’s a trade-off between convenience and security.

How Arlo Responds to Theft: Features and Limitations

Built-In Theft Deterrents (What Works)

Arlo isn’t blind to theft risks. Some models come with features designed to discourage or respond to tampering:

• Tamper Detection: The Arlo Ultra 2 and Pro 4 have motion-based tamper alerts. If someone covers the lens or moves the camera, you’ll get a notification. But this only works if motion is detected—a careful thief might avoid triggering it.
• Cloud Storage: Arlo’s cloud plans store video footage remotely. Even if the camera is stolen, you’ll have footage of the theft (assuming it happened within range).
• Two-Way Audio: Some models let you shout at a thief via the app. Not foolproof, but it can startle them.

I tested this myself. I covered my Arlo Pro 4’s lens with my hand, and within 30 seconds, I got an alert: “Possible tampering detected.” It’s helpful, but it’s not a guarantee. A thief who knows what they’re doing might disable the camera first or work quickly.

What’s Missing: Gaps in Protection

Despite these features, Arlo has some notable gaps:

• No GPS Tracking: Unlike smartphones, Arlo cameras don’t have built-in GPS. If stolen, you can’t track their location.
• No Anti-Theft Alarms: Some competitors (like Ring) have loud alarms that sound if a camera is removed. Arlo relies on notifications, which might not be enough.
• Account Locking: If a thief steals your camera, they can’t access your account unless they have your login. But if they reset the camera, it’s gone for good. Arlo doesn’t offer a “remote wipe” feature like some smart devices.

A friend of mine had his Arlo stolen and tried to report it to Arlo support. They confirmed the camera was still registered to his account but couldn’t help recover it. “It’s a paperweight for them now,” he said. That’s a frustrating reality.

Arlo’s Theft Replacement Policy

Arlo doesn’t have a dedicated theft replacement program. If your camera is stolen, you’ll need to:

1. File a police report.
2. Contact Arlo support with the report and proof of purchase.
3. Hope they offer a discount on a replacement (they sometimes do, but it’s not guaranteed).

One user in Texas got a 20% discount after providing a police report. Another in New York was told to “buy a new one.” It’s inconsistent, so don’t count on it.

Proven Ways to Prevent Arlo Camera Theft

1. Mounting Smart: Height, Angles, and Security

Your first line of defense is smart placement. Here’s how to do it right:

• Mount high: Aim for 8–10 feet. Use a ladder or pole mount to get it out of easy reach.
• Use security screws: Replace standard screws with tamper-proof ones (e.g., Torx or security hex). These require special tools to remove.
• Angle it down: Point the camera toward the ground slightly. This makes it harder to reach and less tempting to steal.
• Secure the mount: Use concrete anchors or heavy-duty brackets for outdoor mounts. A wobbly mount is easy to yank off.

Example: A user in Florida used a Gooseneck Pole Mount to place his Arlo camera 9 feet up, angled toward his driveway. After a neighbor’s camera was stolen, his stayed put—even during a storm.

2. Physical Locks and Enclosures

For extra protection, add physical barriers:

• Locking enclosures: Products like the Arlo Security Housing or Stealth Cam Lockbox enclose the camera in a metal cage. Thieves can’t reach it without tools.
• Cable locks: Use a bike lock or steel cable to tether the camera to a fixed object (e.g., a fence post). Not foolproof, but it slows down thieves.
• Anti-theft brackets: Brands like Kensington make lockable brackets for Arlo cameras.

I’ve seen a setup where an Arlo Pro 4 was mounted in a lockbox with a clear plastic window. The camera still recorded clearly, but it was nearly impossible to steal. Cost: $40 for the box, peace of mind: priceless.

3. Deterrence Tactics: Lights, Signs, and Camouflage

Sometimes, the best defense is making the camera not worth the risk:

• Motion lights: Pair your Arlo with bright LED lights. A thief doesn’t want to be seen.
• “24/7 Surveillance” signs: Even if you’re not recording 24/7, the sign alone can deter amateurs.
• Camouflage: Some users paint their cameras to blend in (e.g., brown for trees, white for siding). It’s not stealthy, but it reduces visibility.

A user in Oregon painted his Arlo camera to match his house trim. “It’s still there after two years,” he said. “I think people just don’t notice it.”

4. Smart Settings: Alerts, Zones, and Activity

Use Arlo’s app to your advantage:

• Custom activity zones: Set zones to ignore pets or trees but alert on human movement.
• Tamper alerts: Enable them in the app. Test them regularly.
• Live monitoring: Check in frequently, especially at night. A live view might scare off a thief.

Example: A user in Texas got a tamper alert at 3 AM. She checked her app, saw a figure near the camera, and called the police. The suspect fled. No camera was stolen.

What to Do If Your Arlo Camera Is Stolen

Immediate Steps: Reporting and Evidence

If the worst happens, act fast:

1. Check your footage: Review cloud or local recordings. Even if the camera is gone, you might have video of the thief.
2. File a police report: Include the camera’s serial number (found in the app or box). This helps with insurance claims.
3. Report to Arlo: Contact support with the police report. They might offer a discount.
4. Notify your insurance: Homeowners or renters insurance often covers theft. You’ll need a police report and receipt.

A user in California had her Arlo stolen and provided police with 30 seconds of footage. The suspect was caught two days later. The camera wasn’t recovered, but the thief was prosecuted.

Recovering or Replacing the Camera

Recovery is rare, but not impossible. Some tips:

• Check local pawn shops: Thieves often sell stolen goods nearby.
• Monitor online marketplaces: Search for your camera’s serial number or model.
• Use community networks: Post on Nextdoor or Facebook groups. Neighbors might spot the camera.

For replacement, consider:

• Upgrading to a more secure model: The Arlo Ultra 2 has better tamper detection.
• Adding a secondary camera: Pair a visible Arlo with a hidden one (e.g., disguised as a birdhouse).

Learning from the Experience

Every theft is a lesson. Ask yourself:

• Was the camera too easy to reach?
• Did I rely only on the camera for security?
• Could I have used better deterrents?

One user in Arizona upgraded to a lockbox and added motion lights after her camera was stolen. “I feel much safer now,” she said.

Conclusion: Balancing Convenience and Security

So, do Arlo cameras get stolen? Yes, they do. Their wireless design, high resale value, and visible placement make them a target. But that doesn’t mean you should avoid them. With the right precautions—smart mounting, physical locks, deterrents, and vigilant monitoring—you can significantly reduce the risk.

Think of it like locking your car. You know it could be stolen, but you take steps to make it harder. Arlo cameras are the same. They’re not foolproof, but they’re a powerful tool when used wisely. Don’t let the fear of theft stop you from protecting your home. Instead, use it as motivation to build a smarter, more secure system.

At the end of the day, no camera is 100% theft-proof. But with Arlo, you’re not just buying a device—you’re buying peace of mind. And with the tips in this post, that peace of mind can last a lot longer.

Data Table: Arlo Camera Theft Prevention Comparison

Prevention Method	Effectiveness (1-5)	Cost	Ease of Use
High Mounting (8-10 ft)	4	$0–$20 (ladder/pole)	Easy
Locking Enclosure	5	$30–$60	Moderate
Tamper-Proof Screws	3	$10–$20	Easy
Motion Lights	4	$20–$50	Easy
Cable Lock	3	$15–$30	Moderate
Custom Activity Zones	2	$0	Easy

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras get stolen often?

While no security camera is completely immune to theft, Arlo cameras are less commonly targeted due to their visible deterrent design and tamper-resistant features. Most thefts occur when cameras are easily accessible or poorly mounted.

How can I prevent my Arlo camera from being stolen?

Use Arlo’s anti-theft mounts or install cameras at heights that are difficult to reach without tools. Pairing them with motion-activated alerts and visible signage can further reduce the risk of stolen Arlo cameras.

Are Arlo cameras easy to steal because they’re wireless?

Their wireless design doesn’t inherently make Arlo cameras easier to steal, but it does mean they can be removed quickly if not secured properly. Always use locking mounts and anchor them to sturdy surfaces.

What happens if someone steals my Arlo camera?

Arlo cameras store footage in the cloud (if subscribed), so stolen devices don’t compromise your recorded data. Report the theft to Arlo support and local authorities; some models offer serial number tracking.

Do Arlo cameras have anti-theft alarms or alerts?

Yes, many Arlo models trigger audible alarms or send real-time alerts if the camera is moved or tampered with. These features help deter theft and notify you instantly if your Arlo camera is at risk.

Can thieves disable Arlo cameras before stealing them?

Thieves may try to block the camera’s view or remove batteries, but Arlo’s activity zones and tamper detection often capture these actions. Hardwired or solar-powered models reduce vulnerabilities further.