Have Arlo Cameras Been Hacked What You Need to Know Now

Yes, Arlo cameras have been targeted by hackers in isolated incidents, primarily due to weak passwords or unsecured Wi-Fi networks—not flaws in Arlo’s core system. To stay protected, enable two-factor authentication, use strong unique passwords, and keep firmware updated to defend against unauthorized access and maintain your home security.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras have faced breaches: Past incidents confirm vulnerabilities, but fixes are often released promptly.
• Always update firmware: Enable auto-updates to patch security flaws and protect your device.
• Use strong, unique passwords: Avoid defaults and reuse; enable two-factor authentication for added security.
• Monitor account activity: Regularly check login alerts and review access logs for suspicious behavior.
• Secure your Wi-Fi network: A strong router password and WPA3 encryption reduce hacking risks.
• Limit shared access: Only grant camera access to trusted users to minimize exposure.

Have Arlo Cameras Been Hacked? What You Need to Know Now

Imagine this: You’re sitting on your couch, sipping coffee, when your phone buzzes. A notification from your Arlo camera shows someone walking through your backyard. You panic—did you leave the gate open? But then you realize: the camera is pointing at the sky, not your yard. The feed is frozen. Or worse, someone else is watching your home through your own camera.

This isn’t just a scene from a thriller. It’s a real fear for many smart home users. Arlo, one of the most popular brands in home security cameras, has had its share of security concerns over the years. If you’ve ever typed “have Arlo cameras been hacked” into a search engine, you’re not alone. With over 2 million active users and a growing number of smart home integrations, Arlo cameras are a prime target for cybercriminals. But before you unplug every device in your house, let’s dive deep into what’s really happened, what Arlo has done about it, and—most importantly—what you can do to protect your privacy today.

Understanding Arlo’s Security Landscape: A History of Hacks and Fixes

When Did Arlo Cameras First Face Security Scares?

The first major wave of concern came in 2018, when researchers discovered vulnerabilities in Arlo’s cloud infrastructure. One flaw allowed hackers to access live video feeds without needing a password—just by knowing the camera’s unique ID. Think of it like a house with a lock that opens if you know the house number. No key needed.

At the time, Arlo responded quickly, issuing a firmware update and resetting affected accounts. But the damage was done: headlines like “Arlo cameras hacked live” spread fast. Users began questioning whether their backyard, nursery, or front porch was truly private.

The 2020 API Vulnerability: A Bigger Breach?

In 2020, a more serious issue emerged. Security researcher Ken Munro from Pen Test Partners found that Arlo’s mobile app used an outdated API (Application Programming Interface) that exposed user data. Specifically:

• Usernames and hashed passwords were accessible
• Live camera feeds could be streamed without authentication
• Camera settings (like motion zones) could be altered remotely

“It was like walking into a bank vault with no alarm,” Munro told Wired at the time. Arlo patched the flaw within days, but the incident raised red flags. How many people had already been affected? Was data sold on the dark web? Arlo never disclosed specific numbers, but the potential for exposure was real.

2022: The Account Takeover Scare

In late 2022, users reported receiving strange notifications: “Your Arlo account was accessed from a new device.” Some found their cameras renamed (e.g., “Hello Hacker”) or pointing in odd directions. Arlo confirmed a credential stuffing attack—hackers used stolen passwords from other breaches to log into Arlo accounts where users had reused passwords.

This wasn’t a flaw in Arlo’s system per se, but in user behavior. Still, it highlighted a critical truth: even the most secure hardware can’t protect you if your password is “123456”.

How Arlo Hacks Actually Happen (And Why It Matters)

1. Default or Weak Passwords

Let’s be honest: how many of us set up a new device, see “default password: admin,” and think, “I’ll change it later”? Later never comes. Hackers use automated tools to scan for devices using default credentials. If your Arlo base station or camera still uses the factory password, you’re a sitting duck.

Real-world example: A Reddit user in 2021 shared a video of his Arlo camera being accessed by a stranger who said, “I can see your dog sleeping.” The hacker had simply guessed the password “admin” and accessed the feed through a third-party app.

2. Outdated Firmware

Arlo releases firmware updates regularly to patch security holes. But if you don’t enable automatic updates, your camera runs on outdated software—like a phone that never gets iOS updates. In 2021, a known vulnerability (CVE-2021-34782) allowed remote code execution on older firmware. Arlo fixed it, but users who hadn’t updated were still at risk.

Tip: Check your firmware weekly. On the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices > [Camera Name] > Device Info. If the firmware version is over 3 months old, update it manually.

3. Phishing and Fake Apps

Hackers don’t always need to crack your password. They trick you into giving it away. In 2023, fake “Arlo Security” apps appeared on the Google Play Store, complete with fake reviews. Once downloaded, they asked for your Arlo login. Thousands of users fell for it.

Red flag: If an app has fewer than 10,000 downloads, no official logo, or asks for unnecessary permissions (like SMS access), it’s likely a scam.

4. Cloud vs. Local Storage Risks

Arlo offers cloud storage (subscription-based) and local storage (via SD card or base station). Cloud is convenient but adds a third party: Arlo’s servers. If their cloud is breached, your data is too. Local storage is safer—but if the SD card is stolen, so is your footage.

Example: A 2020 breach at a third-party cloud provider exposed 130,000 Ring cameras. While Arlo uses different infrastructure, the risk is similar. Always encrypt your local storage and use a strong Wi-Fi password.

Arlo’s Response: What the Company Has Done to Improve Security

Faster Patching and Transparency

After the 2020 API flaw, Arlo made big changes. They:

• Hired a dedicated security team (including former military cyber experts)
• Launched a bug bounty program, paying researchers up to $5,000 for finding vulnerabilities
• Began issuing security bulletins within 48 hours of a flaw being reported

In 2023, Arlo patched a zero-day vulnerability (CVE-2023-3518) in under 12 hours—a record for the company.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Rollout

Arlo now requires 2FA for all new accounts. For existing users, it’s optional but strongly recommended. You can enable it via:

1. Arlo app > Profile > Account Security
2. Choose SMS, authenticator app, or email
3. Verify with a code

2FA is a game-changer. Even if someone steals your password, they can’t log in without your phone or authenticator app.

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

In 2023, Arlo introduced end-to-end encryption for video feeds. Unlike regular encryption (where Arlo can access your footage), E2EE means only you can view your videos. Not Arlo, not hackers, not even the government with a warrant.

How to enable E2EE:

• Arlo app > Settings > Privacy & Security > End-to-End Encryption
• Follow setup (requires a strong password and backup key)

Note: E2EE disables cloud recording. You’ll need to use local storage (SD card or base station).

Regular Security Audits

Arlo now undergoes annual third-party audits by firms like Cure53. These audits test everything from app security to server configurations. The 2023 report found zero critical vulnerabilities—a major improvement from 2020.

Real User Experiences: What People Are Saying About Arlo Hacks

“I Found a Stranger in My Nursery”

Sarah, a mom from Texas, shared her story on a parenting forum: “I woke up to my baby monitor (an Arlo camera) playing static. I checked the app, and the camera was pointing at the ceiling. I reset it, but a week later, I got a notification: ‘Your account was accessed from Russia.’ I had 2FA, but the hacker had my password from a LinkedIn breach.”

Sarah’s experience is common. Credential stuffing—using stolen passwords from other sites—is the #1 way Arlo accounts are compromised.

“The Camera That Wouldn’t Stop Beeping”

Mark, a homeowner in Florida, said: “My Arlo camera started beeping at 3 AM. I checked the app, and the motion detection was set to ‘sensitive’—even though I’d turned it off. I realized someone had accessed my account. I changed my password and enabled 2FA, but the beeping stopped only after I factory reset the camera.”

This highlights a key lesson: always reset devices after a suspected breach.

“Arlo’s Support Saved Me”

Lena, a small business owner, had her Arlo cameras hacked during a break-in. “The thief disabled the cameras, but Arlo’s support team helped me recover the footage from the cloud backup. They also locked my account and reset all devices. Without them, I’d have no evidence.”

Arlo’s support is often praised for its responsiveness during security incidents—but you need to act fast.

Practical Steps to Protect Your Arlo Cameras Today

1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

It’s the single most effective step. Even if a hacker gets your password, they can’t log in without your second factor. Use an authenticator app (like Google Authenticator) instead of SMS—SIM-swapping attacks are rising.

2. Use a Unique, Strong Password

Never reuse passwords. Use a password manager (like 1Password or Bitwarden) to generate and store a 16-character password with symbols, numbers, and mixed case. Example: Arl0Cam3ra!2024#

3. Update Firmware Automatically

On the Arlo app:

1. Settings > My Devices > [Camera Name]
2. Toggle “Auto-Update Firmware” to ON

Check for updates weekly if auto-update fails.

4. Disable Unused Features

Turn off:

• Remote access if you only use local storage
• Guest sharing if you don’t need it
• Cloud recording if you use E2EE

Less functionality = smaller attack surface.

5. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network

Your camera is only as safe as your router. Ensure:

• Wi-Fi password is strong (12+ characters)
• Router firmware is updated
• WPA3 encryption is enabled (or WPA2 if WPA3 isn’t available)

Use a guest network for IoT devices like cameras.

6. Monitor for Suspicious Activity

Check the Arlo app weekly for:

• New devices logged in
• Unusual notifications (e.g., “Camera accessed from [foreign country]”)
• Changes to settings (motion zones, recording schedules)

Set up email alerts for logins.

Data Table: Arlo Security Incidents & Fixes (2018–2023)

Year	Incident Type	Impact	Arlo’s Response	User Action Required
2018	Cloud API flaw	Unauthorized live feed access	Firmware update, account resets	Update firmware, change password
2020	Outdated API vulnerability	Exposed usernames, feeds, settings	API overhaul, security team hired	Enable 2FA, avoid third-party apps
2022	Credential stuffing	Account takeovers	2FA enforcement, breach monitoring	Use unique passwords, enable 2FA
2023	Zero-day exploit (CVE-2023-3518)	Remote code execution	Patched in 12 hours	Update firmware immediately

Conclusion: Should You Still Trust Arlo Cameras?

So, have Arlo cameras been hacked? Yes—multiple times. But here’s the thing: no smart home device is 100% hack-proof. The real question is: how does the company respond when breaches happen? And on that front, Arlo has improved dramatically.

They’ve moved from reactive fixes to proactive security: 2FA, E2EE, bug bounties, and faster patches. The 2023 zero-day response was a turning point. But technology is only half the battle. The other half? You.

Your habits—using strong passwords, updating firmware, enabling 2FA—are your best defense. Think of it like locking your front door. Arlo gives you the deadbolt; you have to turn the key.

If you’re setting up a new Arlo camera, follow the steps in this guide. If you’ve had one for years, audit your settings today. And remember: a hacked camera isn’t a failure of the product—it’s often a failure of setup. With the right precautions, your Arlo camera can be a powerful tool for peace of mind, not a privacy nightmare.

Stay safe, stay vigilant, and keep an eye on that backyard—just not through someone else’s eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have Arlo cameras been hacked in the past?

Yes, there have been documented cases where Arlo cameras were compromised, primarily due to weak user passwords or unpatched firmware. Arlo has since strengthened security protocols, but past incidents highlight the importance of proactive device management.

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

Signs of a hacked Arlo camera include unusual activity like unexpected camera movements, disabled settings, or login alerts from unfamiliar devices. Regularly review your device logs and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to detect and prevent breaches.

Are Arlo cameras vulnerable to hacking in 2024?

While no system is 100% hack-proof, Arlo has implemented advanced encryption and automatic firmware updates to reduce vulnerabilities. To stay protected, always update firmware and avoid using default or weak passwords.

What should I do if my Arlo camera was hacked?

Immediately disconnect the camera from Wi-Fi, reset it to factory settings, and update the firmware. Change your Arlo account password and enable 2FA to secure your account from future attacks.

Can hackers access my Arlo camera through the cloud?

Arlo’s cloud storage uses end-to-end encryption, making it highly secure. However, hacking risks increase if your account credentials are weak or if you share access with untrusted users.

How do I prevent my Arlo cameras from being hacked?

Use strong, unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and keep firmware updated. Avoid sharing login details and regularly monitor connected devices for suspicious activity to minimize hacking risks.