How Easy Is to Steal an Arlo Camera Uncover the Risks

Arlo cameras can be surprisingly easy to steal if left unsecured, especially when mounted in visible, accessible locations. Thieves often target quick, untraceable snatch-and-grab opportunities, making physical security and strategic placement critical to deter theft. A few simple precautions can drastically reduce the risk.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras are vulnerable to theft if not properly secured or mounted.
• Always use tamper-proof mounts to deter quick snatch-and-grab thefts.
• Enable motion alerts and GPS to track stolen cameras immediately.
• Weak Wi-Fi exposes cameras to hacking—always use strong, encrypted networks.
• Register your device with Arlo to increase recovery chances if stolen.
• Check camera placement to ensure visibility without easy access to thieves.

How Easy Is to Steal an Arlo Camera? Uncover the Risks

Imagine this: You’ve just installed your shiny new Arlo camera to keep an eye on your front porch. You feel a sense of security, knowing that every movement will be recorded and sent straight to your phone. But then, one morning, you wake up to an empty space where your camera used to be. No footage. No alerts. Just silence. Your stomach drops. How could someone have taken it so easily? And worse—was your data compromised?

It’s a scenario that’s more common than you might think. While Arlo cameras are popular for their sleek design, wireless setup, and smart features, their ease of installation and visibility can sometimes work against them. The truth is, how easy it is to steal an Arlo camera depends on several factors—where it’s placed, how it’s secured, and whether you’ve taken extra precautions. In this post, we’re going to dive deep into the risks, the vulnerabilities, and the smart ways you can protect your investment. Whether you’re a first-time user or a long-time Arlo fan, this is the guide you need to stay one step ahead of potential thieves.

Why Arlo Cameras Are Attractive to Thieves

You might be wondering: Why would someone want to steal an Arlo camera? After all, it’s not like they’re stealing a TV or a laptop. But here’s the thing—Arlo cameras are valuable, portable, and surprisingly easy to resell. Let’s break down why they’re such a tempting target.

High Resale Value and Portability

Arlo cameras, especially models like the Arlo Pro 4, Ultra, or even the older Pro 2, can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 per unit. They’re small, lightweight, and battery-powered, which means they can be unclipped and carried away in seconds. Unlike a bulky wired security system, there are no cords to cut or complex disassembly required. A thief can simply grab the camera and walk off—no tools needed.

And because Arlo cameras are popular and widely used, they have a strong resale market. Thieves often resell them on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or even pawn shops. Some even strip the components for parts. The high demand means stolen Arlo cameras don’t stay off the market for long.

Visible Placement and Lack of Physical Security

Many homeowners install Arlo cameras in visible locations—above doors, near driveways, or in front yards. While this visibility is meant to deter crime, it also makes the cameras easy to spot and target. Unlike hidden cameras, Arlo’s design is sleek and noticeable, which can draw attention from opportunistic thieves.

Even worse, many users rely solely on the magnetic or adhesive mounts that come with the camera. These are great for quick setup, but they’re not designed to resist tampering. A quick tug or twist can pop the camera right off its mount. I once had a neighbor whose camera was stolen during a weekend getaway—just 48 hours after installation. The thief simply reached up, twisted the camera, and walked away.

False Sense of Security

Arlo cameras are marketed as “wire-free” and “easy to install,” which is great for convenience. But that ease can create a false sense of security. Users often assume that because the camera is smart and connected, it’s also physically secure. But digital security doesn’t stop physical theft.

Think of it like leaving your car unlocked with the keys inside. The car might have a great alarm system, but if it’s wide open, anyone can just hop in and drive off. The same applies to Arlo cameras. A strong Wi-Fi password and two-factor authentication won’t stop someone from physically removing the device.

How Thieves Steal Arlo Cameras (Real-World Examples)

Let’s get real—how do thieves actually steal Arlo cameras? It’s not always about smash-and-grab. Often, it’s subtle, quick, and clever. Here are some common tactics used in real thefts.

The “Reach-Up” Grab

This is the most common method. A thief simply walks up to a mounted Arlo camera, reaches up, and pulls it off. If it’s on a magnetic or adhesive mount, it takes less than five seconds. I’ve seen videos from Ring and Arlo communities where cameras are stolen this way—no running, no panic. Just a quick grab and a casual stroll away.

One Reddit user shared footage of a man in a hoodie stealing an Arlo Pro 4 from his porch. The camera detected motion, but by the time the alert came through, the thief was already gone. The user later found the camera listed for sale on a local buy/sell group—still in working condition.

Using Tools to Bypass Mounts

Some thieves come prepared. They use small tools like pliers, screwdrivers, or even wire cutters to remove cameras from more secure mounts. For example, Arlo’s metal wall mounts use screws, but if they’re not tightened properly or if the thief uses leverage, the camera can still be removed.

In one case, a homeowner installed their Arlo camera with a screw mount, but used plastic anchors in a wooden beam. A thief used a crowbar to pry the mount off the wall, taking the camera with it. The footage showed the entire process took under 30 seconds.

Social Engineering and Distraction

Some thieves don’t steal the camera right away. Instead, they create a distraction—like knocking on the door or pretending to be a delivery person—while an accomplice swipes the camera. This tactic is especially effective when the camera is within easy reach from the ground.

I remember a local news story where a woman reported her Arlo camera missing after a “door-to-door survey.” The surveyor asked for water, and while she was inside, someone else stole the camera from her front porch. The thief even left a fake business card as a red herring.

Stealing the Base Station (Less Common, But Risky)

While most thefts target individual cameras, the Arlo base station (which connects cameras to the cloud) can also be stolen. This is rarer because it’s usually indoors, but if it’s near a window or in a garage, it’s at risk. If stolen, the thief could potentially access stored footage—especially if you’re using local storage or haven’t enabled encryption.

Physical Security: How to Make Your Arlo Camera Harder to Steal

Now that we’ve seen how easy it is to steal an Arlo camera, let’s talk about how to make it much harder. The good news? You don’t need to turn your home into Fort Knox. With a few smart changes, you can significantly reduce the risk of theft.

Use Tamper-Resistant Mounts

The first step is to upgrade your mount. Instead of relying on the default magnetic or adhesive mounts, invest in tamper-resistant options. Here are some great choices:

• Arlo Security Mount: This official mount uses a locking pin that requires a special tool (included) to remove. It’s not foolproof, but it adds a layer of difficulty.
• Third-Party Locking Mounts: Brands like Mount Genie and Arlo Lock offer mounts with keyed locks or hex screws. These require tools to remove, which deters casual thieves.
• Custom Enclosures: Some users 3D-print or buy metal cages that fit over the camera. These make it impossible to grab the camera without tools.

One user in a Facebook group shared that after switching to a locking mount, a would-be thief tried to pull the camera off, gave up, and moved on to another house. The extra 10 seconds of effort was enough to make a difference.

Install Cameras Out of Reach

The higher the camera, the harder it is to steal. Aim for at least 9–12 feet off the ground. This makes it impossible for most people to reach without a ladder or pole. If you’re using a ladder to install it, that’s a good sign it’s secure.

Use gutters, roof eaves, or sturdy tree branches (if the camera supports outdoor use). Just make sure the camera still has a clear view of the area you want to monitor. A camera that’s too high might miss important details.

Add Physical Deterrents

Sometimes, the best security is making it obvious that stealing the camera is a bad idea. Try these:

• Anti-Theft Cables: Use a steel cable or bike lock to tether the camera to a fixed object (like a wall or pole). This won’t stop a determined thief, but it slows them down.
• Motion-Activated Lights: Bright lights can startle thieves and make them think they’re being watched. Pair this with a camera, and you’ve got a strong deterrent.
• Fake Cameras: Place a fake camera near a real one. Thieves often target the easier option. Just don’t rely on fakes alone—they won’t record anything.

Regularly Inspect and Tighten Hardware

Over time, screws can loosen due to weather or vibration. Check your mounts every few months and tighten them as needed. Also, look for signs of tampering—scratches, bent metal, or missing pins. If something looks off, investigate.

Digital Security: Protecting Data When a Camera Is Stolen

Even if a thief steals your Arlo camera, your data might still be safe—if you’ve set things up correctly. Digital security is just as important as physical security.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

2FA adds an extra layer of protection to your Arlo account. Even if someone gets your password, they’ll need a code from your phone or email to log in. This is crucial if your camera is stolen and the thief tries to access your account.

To enable 2FA, go to your Arlo app > Settings > Account > Two-Factor Authentication. Choose between SMS or authenticator apps (like Google Authenticator or Authy). Authenticator apps are more secure because they don’t rely on SMS, which can be intercepted.

Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Never use the same password for your Arlo account as you do for email or social media. Use a password manager to generate and store a strong, unique password. A good password has at least 12 characters, with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.

If you’re worried about remembering it, use a passphrase like “PurpleTiger$JumpsHigh2024!”—it’s easier to remember and harder to crack.

Disable Local Storage and Use Cloud Recording

Arlo cameras can store footage locally on a microSD card or in the cloud. If a thief steals a camera with a microSD card, they could access your footage—unless it’s encrypted.

To reduce risk, use cloud recording (Arlo Smart) instead of local storage. Cloud footage is encrypted and stored on Arlo’s servers, not on the camera. Even if the camera is stolen, your data stays safe.

If you must use local storage, enable encryption in the Arlo app. This ensures that only your account can read the footage.

Monitor Account Activity

The Arlo app shows login history and device activity. Check this regularly to spot suspicious logins. If you see a login from an unknown location or device, change your password immediately and enable 2FA if you haven’t already.

What to Do If Your Arlo Camera Is Stolen

Despite your best efforts, theft can still happen. Here’s what to do if your Arlo camera is stolen.

1. Check for Footage

Log into your Arlo app and review the last 24–48 hours of footage. Look for the moment the camera was taken. Even if the camera is gone, the footage might still be in the cloud (if you have Arlo Smart).

Save the clip and note the time, date, and description of the thief. This is crucial for the police.

2. Report to Police

File a police report. Include the footage, the camera’s serial number (found in the app or on the box), and any details about the theft. A report increases the chance of recovery and may be needed for insurance.

3. Report to Arlo Support

Contact Arlo customer support. They can help deactivate the camera and prevent it from being used with another account. While they can’t track the camera’s location (Arlo doesn’t have GPS), they can flag it as stolen.

4. Check Online Marketplaces

Search platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp, and eBay for your camera model. Include keywords like “Arlo Pro 4” or “Arlo Ultra.” If you find it, don’t confront the seller. Instead, notify the police with the listing details.

5. Review and Improve Security

Use the incident as a learning opportunity. Ask yourself: Could the camera have been placed higher? Could a locking mount have prevented it? Make adjustments to protect your remaining cameras.

Arlo Camera Theft Risks: A Quick Reference Table

Risk Factor	How It Helps Thieves	How to Reduce Risk
Low Mounting Height	Easy to reach and grab	Mount at 9–12 feet; use ladders only
Magnetic/Adhesive Mount	Camera pops off with minimal effort	Use locking mounts with screws or pins
Visible Location	Thieves can spot and target it	Combine with fake cameras; use motion lights
No 2FA or Weak Password	Thief can access your account	Enable 2FA; use a strong, unique password
Local Storage (Unencrypted)	Thief can view your footage	Use cloud storage; enable encryption

How easy is to steal an Arlo camera? Unfortunately, it can be very easy—if you don’t take precautions. The wireless, sleek design that makes Arlo cameras so convenient also makes them vulnerable to quick theft. But that doesn’t mean you’re defenseless.

By combining physical security (tamper-resistant mounts, high placement, deterrents) with digital security (2FA, strong passwords, cloud storage), you can make your Arlo camera much harder to steal—and your data much safer if it is. Remember, security isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being smart, proactive, and aware.

So take a look at your setup. Are your cameras within easy reach? Are they secured with flimsy mounts? Could a thief access your account with just a password? If you answered “yes” to any of these, now is the time to act. A few small changes today could save you a lot of stress—and a missing camera—tomorrow.

Your Arlo camera is more than just a gadget. It’s your eyes when you’re not around. Protect it wisely, and it’ll protect you back.

Frequently Asked Questions

How easy is it to steal an Arlo camera from my property?

Arlo cameras are generally difficult to steal due to their compact size, tamper-resistant designs, and mounting options that secure them to walls or poles. However, opportunistic thieves may target poorly mounted or easily accessible units. Always install your camera out of arm’s reach and use anti-theft mounts for added security.

Can someone easily disable or steal an Arlo camera without detection?

Arlo cameras come with features like tamper alerts and motion detection that notify you if the device is moved or covered. While a determined thief might temporarily disable a camera, the risk of being recorded or identified is high, deterring most attempts.

Does Arlo have anti-theft features to prevent camera theft?

Yes, many Arlo models include anti-theft features such as tamper alerts, cloud-based video history, and serial number tracking. If your camera is stolen, you can provide law enforcement with the serial number and footage to aid recovery.

How easy is it to steal an Arlo camera if it’s not connected to Wi-Fi?

Even if your Arlo camera is offline, it stores footage on a microSD card (on supported models), making it harder for thieves to erase evidence. However, physical theft remains a risk, so proper placement and secure mounting are critical.

What happens to my Arlo camera if it’s stolen—can the thief access my account?

Arlo cameras require account authentication to access footage or settings. A stolen camera cannot be linked to a new account without your credentials, keeping your data safe. Report the theft to Arlo support to deactivate the device.

Are wireless Arlo cameras easier to steal than wired ones?

Wireless Arlo cameras are more portable but can be secured effectively with mounts and placement in hard-to-reach areas. Wired models offer less flexibility but are harder to remove quickly. The risk depends more on installation than connectivity type.