How Do I Make Sure My Arlo Camera Is Secure Expert Tips

Always use a strong, unique password and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect your Arlo camera from unauthorized access. Regularly update your camera’s firmware and use encrypted connections (like WPA3) to defend against emerging threats. These expert-recommended steps ensure your Arlo system stays secure and your privacy remains intact.

Key Takeaways

• Change default passwords: Set strong, unique credentials immediately after setup.
• Enable two-factor authentication: Add an extra layer of account protection.
• Update firmware regularly: Patch vulnerabilities with the latest software versions.
• Use a secure Wi-Fi network: Avoid public networks to prevent unauthorized access.
• Review sharing settings: Limit camera access to trusted users only.
• Monitor login activity: Check for suspicious sign-ins in your account history.

How Do I Make Sure My Arlo Camera Is Secure? Expert Tips

Let’s face it: home security is no longer just about deadbolts and motion-activated lights. With smart cameras like Arlo becoming more popular, we now rely on digital tools to keep our homes safe. But here’s the thing—just because your camera is “smart” doesn’t mean it’s automatically secure. In fact, many people don’t realize that a poorly configured Arlo camera can actually be a weak point in their home security. I learned this the hard way a few years ago when a friend’s Arlo feed was briefly hacked, and someone accessed their backyard camera. It wasn’t a full-blown breach, but it was enough to make us both rethink how we set up our smart devices.

So, if you’ve ever wondered, “How do I make sure my Arlo camera is secure?” you’re not alone. Whether you’re a tech-savvy homeowner or just getting started with home automation, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to protect your privacy, data, and peace of mind. We’ll cover everything from setting up strong passwords to monitoring for suspicious activity—all in plain, easy-to-understand language. No jargon, no fluff. Just practical, real-world tips to help you stay one step ahead of potential threats.

1. Secure Your Arlo Account with Strong Authentication

Think of your Arlo account as the front door to your entire security system. If someone gets in, they can access live feeds, recorded videos, and even control your cameras. That’s why securing your account should be your first priority.

Use a Strong, Unique Password

First things first: ditch the “password123” or “ilovemycat” routine. A strong password should be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. For example: Blue$kyCam72!Rain. Avoid using personal info like your birth year or pet’s name—these are easy to guess or find on social media.

Pro tip: Use a password manager like Bitwarden, 1Password, or Dashlane. These tools generate and store complex passwords for all your accounts, so you don’t have to remember them all. Just remember one master password—and make it a good one!

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Even the best password isn’t foolproof. That’s where two-factor authentication (2FA) comes in. When enabled, 2FA requires a second form of verification—like a code sent to your phone—before logging in. It’s like adding a second lock to your front door.

To set up 2FA on your Arlo account:

• Open the Arlo app and go to Settings
• Tap on Profile & Security
• Select Two-Factor Authentication and follow the prompts
• Choose between SMS (text message) or an authenticator app (like Google Authenticator or Authy)

Note: Authenticator apps are more secure than SMS because they don’t rely on your phone number, which can be hijacked through SIM-swapping attacks.

Regularly Review Active Sessions

Ever logged in on a friend’s phone or a public computer? Those sessions stay active until you log out. To check active sessions:

• Go to Settings > Profile & Security > Active Sessions
• Review each session and tap “Log Out” on any device you don’t recognize

I once found an old session from a vacation rental—someone had logged in on a shared tablet and never logged out. A quick log-out fixed that risk instantly.

2. Update Firmware and App Regularly

You know how your phone keeps asking you to update? Same goes for your Arlo camera. Firmware updates aren’t just about new features—they often include critical security patches that fix known vulnerabilities.

Why Updates Matter

Cybercriminals love outdated software. It’s like leaving a window open in your house. In 2021, a vulnerability in older Arlo firmware allowed hackers to access camera feeds without authentication. Arlo quickly released a patch, but users who hadn’t updated were exposed for weeks.

Think of updates as your camera’s flu shot—they protect against known bugs and threats before they can do harm.

How to Check for Updates

Arlo updates are usually automatic, but it’s good to check manually:

• Open the Arlo app and go to Settings
• Tap on My Devices
• Select your camera and look for a Firmware Update option
• If an update is available, tap to install

Pro tip: Enable “Auto-Update” in your Arlo app settings. This ensures your camera always runs the latest, most secure version.

Update Your Arlo App Too

Don’t forget the app itself! Outdated apps can have security flaws that let hackers bypass login screens or steal session tokens. Always update the Arlo app through your device’s app store (Google Play or Apple App Store).

Bonus: Newer app versions often include usability improvements and bug fixes that make your system more reliable.

3. Protect Your Wi-Fi Network—The Foundation of Security

Your Arlo camera connects to the internet through your home Wi-Fi. If your network is weak, your camera is vulnerable—no matter how strong your Arlo password is. Think of Wi-Fi as the highway your camera uses to send data. If the highway is unguarded, anyone can snoop on the traffic.

Use a Strong Wi-Fi Password

Your Wi-Fi password should be as strong as your Arlo account password. Avoid common defaults like “admin” or “password.” Use a long, random string: 7mK9!pQx2@wN. If you’re worried about remembering it, write it down and store it in a safe place (like a locked drawer).

Enable WPA3 Encryption

WPA3 is the latest and most secure Wi-Fi encryption standard. It protects against brute-force attacks and encrypts data even on open networks. If your router supports WPA3, enable it. If not, use WPA2 (avoid WEP at all costs—it’s outdated and easily cracked).

To check your router settings:

• Log into your router’s admin panel (usually via 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1)
• Go to Wireless Settings
• Look for Security Mode and select WPA3 or WPA2

Create a Separate Network for IoT Devices

Here’s a pro move: set up a guest network or a dedicated IoT network for your Arlo cameras, smart plugs, and other devices. This isolates them from your main devices (like laptops and phones).

Why it helps:

• If one device is hacked, the attacker can’t easily reach your personal devices
• You can control bandwidth and prioritize security for critical devices
• It reduces the risk of lateral movement (where a hacker jumps from one device to another)

Most modern routers let you create multiple networks. Name the IoT network something obvious (like “HomeCam_Network”) so you know which one to use when setting up new devices.

4. Limit Access and Permissions

Not everyone in your household (or circle of friends) needs full access to your Arlo system. The more people who can view or control your cameras, the higher the risk of accidental exposure or misuse.

Use Arlo’s User Management Features

Arlo lets you create user roles with different permissions. For example:

• Administrator: Full control (add/remove cameras, manage users, view all feeds)
• Viewer: Can watch live and recorded videos but can’t change settings
• Guest: Limited access, often with time restrictions

To set this up:

• Go to Settings > Users & Sharing
• Tap “Add User” and assign the appropriate role
• Send an invite via email or SMS

Example: My parents are “Viewers.” They can check the front door camera when they’re visiting, but they can’t delete recordings or change motion settings.

Revoke Access When Needed

People move, relationships change, and devices get lost. If someone no longer needs access (like a former roommate or contractor), remove them immediately.

• Go to Users & Sharing
• Tap on the user and select “Remove User”

I once forgot to remove a neighbor who helped install a camera. A year later, I realized they still had access. A quick removal fixed that—and reminded me to review permissions regularly.

Disable Unused Features

Features like “Public Sharing” or “Cloud Upload” can be convenient, but they also increase your attack surface. If you don’t need them, turn them off:

• Go to Settings > Privacy & Security
• Toggle off “Public Sharing” and “Auto-Upload to Cloud” (if you use local storage)

Fewer features = fewer potential entry points for hackers.

5. Monitor for Suspicious Activity and Set Up Alerts

Even with strong security, it’s smart to stay vigilant. The faster you spot a problem, the quicker you can respond.

Enable Arlo’s Activity Alerts

Arlo can notify you when:

• Someone logs into your account
• A new device connects
• Motion is detected in a specific zone

To set up alerts:

• Go to Settings > Notifications
• Enable “Login Alerts” and “Device Alerts”
• Customize motion alerts for each camera

I get a push notification every time someone logs in. It’s reassuring to know that I’ll be the first to know if something’s off.

Review Your Camera Feeds Regularly

Check your camera feeds occasionally—not just for security, but to spot anomalies. For example:

• Is the camera pointing where it should?
• Are there unexpected recordings?
• Is the LED light on when it shouldn’t be?

One user noticed their camera had been repositioned to face the street instead of their front door. Turns out, a family member had adjusted it and forgot to tell anyone. A quick check caught the issue before it became a privacy problem.

Use Third-Party Monitoring (Optional)

For extra peace of mind, consider services like Arlo Secure (paid) or IFTTT (free). These can:

• Send alerts to multiple devices (phone, tablet, email)
• Integrate with smart lights (turn on lights when motion is detected)
• Log activity for later review

Example: I use IFTTT to send a Slack message to my family group chat whenever the backyard camera detects motion after 10 PM. It’s a simple way to keep everyone informed.

6. Physical Security and Privacy Best Practices

Digital security is only half the battle. Physical access to your camera or hub can also be a risk—especially if someone can tamper with it or steal it.

Install Cameras Out of Reach

Place outdoor cameras high enough that they can’t be easily tampered with. Use mounts or brackets that make them difficult to remove or adjust. If a camera is within arm’s reach, someone could cover it, unplug it, or even steal it.

Tip: Use tamper-proof screws or security mounts. Some Arlo models come with these, but you can also buy them separately.

Protect the Arlo Hub or Base Station

If you use an Arlo hub (like the Arlo Pro 3 or Ultra), keep it in a secure, indoor location. Don’t leave it near an exterior wall or window where someone could unplug it. Ideally, store it in a locked cabinet or a closet.

Also, label the power cord with your name and phone number. If it’s accidentally unplugged during maintenance, the person will know how to contact you.

Be Mindful of What Your Camera Sees

Even if your camera is secure, it might capture sensitive areas—like a neighbor’s yard or a bedroom window. This can lead to privacy complaints or legal issues.

• Adjust camera angles to focus only on your property
• Use Arlo’s motion zones to ignore areas outside your yard
• Blur or disable audio recording in sensitive areas (if your model supports it)

I once had a camera pointed at a shared driveway. A neighbor complained, and I had to reposition it. A simple tweak avoided a potential conflict.

Quick Reference: Arlo Security Checklist

Security Task	Frequency	Notes
Use strong, unique password	One-time	Use a password manager
Enable 2FA	One-time	Prefer authenticator app over SMS
Update firmware	Monthly check	Enable auto-updates if possible
Update Arlo app	As available	Check app store weekly
Secure Wi-Fi (WPA3/WPA2)	One-time	Use separate network for IoT
Review user permissions	Quarterly	Remove inactive users
Check for login alerts	Weekly	Review Arlo app notifications
Inspect camera placement	Monthly	Ensure no tampering or obstructions

Securing your Arlo camera isn’t a one-and-done task. It’s an ongoing process—like locking your doors every night. But with these expert tips, you’re not just reacting to threats. You’re building a layered defense that makes your home much harder to compromise.

Remember: the goal isn’t to be perfect. It’s to be aware. By using strong passwords, enabling 2FA, updating regularly, and staying alert, you’re already ahead of most users. And if something does go wrong—like a suspicious login or a strange recording—you’ll know how to respond fast.

At the end of the day, your Arlo camera is a tool to give you peace of mind. With the right setup, it can do just that—without becoming a liability. So take the time to secure it properly. Your privacy, your data, and your home will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make sure my Arlo camera is secure from hackers?

To keep your Arlo camera secure, always use a strong, unique password for your Arlo account and enable two-factor authentication (2FA). This adds an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.

Why is my Arlo camera’s firmware update important for security?

Regular firmware updates patch known vulnerabilities and improve your Arlo camera’s security. Enable automatic updates in the Arlo app to ensure you’re always protected against emerging threats.

Can someone access my Arlo camera remotely without my knowledge?

While Arlo uses bank-grade encryption, unauthorized access can occur if your credentials are compromised. To ensure your Arlo camera is secure, monitor login activity in the app and revoke unrecognized devices immediately.

How do I prevent Wi-Fi hacking from compromising my Arlo camera?

Secure your home Wi-Fi with WPA3 encryption and a strong password. A compromised network can expose your Arlo camera, so consider setting up a separate guest network for IoT devices.

Does Arlo offer end-to-end encryption to keep my camera secure?

Arlo uses TLS/SSL encryption for data in transit, but true end-to-end encryption is only available for select models with Arlo Secure subscriptions. Check your plan details to maximize your camera’s security.

What should I do if I suspect my Arlo camera has been breached?

If you notice suspicious activity, reset your Arlo camera and account password immediately. Contact Arlo support to investigate and ensure your camera is secure moving forward.