Mount your Arlo camera out of reach using high, discreet locations and tamper-resistant hardware to deter theft. Combine this with strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and regular firmware updates to protect both physical and digital access. These expert-backed steps ensure your security system stays secure—so thieves don’t get the last view.

How to Secure Arlo Camera from Theft Expert Tips Revealed

Key Takeaways

• Install cameras high up to deter tampering and reduce theft risk.
• Use tamper-proof mounts for a secure, theft-resistant camera setup.
• Enable motion alerts to get instant notifications of suspicious activity.
• Pair with visible signage to discourage thieves with legal warnings.
• Regularly check camera angles to ensure optimal coverage and visibility.
• Use strong Wi-Fi passwords to prevent unauthorized access to your feed.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be honest: you bought an Arlo camera to feel safer. But what happens when the camera itself becomes a target?

I learned this the hard way. A few years back, I had an Arlo Pro 3 mounted on my backyard fence. It caught a package thief red-handed—but the next night, someone walked up, yanked the camera off, and walked away with it. Poof. Gone. All that footage? Lost. That peace of mind? Shattered.

This isn’t just a rare incident. As wireless, battery-powered cameras like Arlo gain popularity, so do thefts. Thieves know these devices are easy to grab, often expensive, and sometimes contain valuable data. And if your camera gets stolen, not only do you lose your investment, but you also lose your surveillance coverage—exactly when you need it most.

So, how to secure Arlo camera from theft expert tips revealed isn’t just about protecting a gadget. It’s about protecting your home, your privacy, and your sense of safety. The good news? With a few smart moves, you can make your Arlo camera a whole lot harder to steal—without turning your yard into a fortress.

Whether you’re using Arlo Pro, Ultra, Q, or even the newer Arlo Go, these strategies apply. And the best part? Most of them don’t cost much—just a little time and attention to detail.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to secure Arlo camera from theft expert tips revealed, based on real-world experience, security best practices, and a few hard-earned lessons. No fluff. No sales pitch. Just practical, doable steps.

What You Need

Before we dive in, let’s gather what you’ll need. Most of these items are affordable or even lying around your garage. Here’s a quick checklist:

• Tamper-resistant mounting hardware (security screws, anti-theft brackets, or a metal cage)
• Drill and appropriate bits (for wood, masonry, or metal, depending on surface)
• Cable lock or security tether (like a bike chain or steel wire)
• Weatherproof silicone sealant (optional, for outdoor mounts)
• Smart plug or outlet timer (for indoor Arlo models)
• Arlo app (updated to the latest version)
• Extra batteries or solar panel (to reduce maintenance trips)
• Motion-activated light or floodlight (optional but highly effective)
• Security sign or sticker (Arlo-branded or generic “24/7 Surveillance”)

You don’t need everything on this list—just pick the tools that match your setup. For example, if your camera is under a covered porch, you might skip the sealant. If it’s in a high-theft area, a tether and cage are non-negotiable.

And remember: the goal isn’t to make your camera invisible. It’s to make it not worth the effort to steal. That’s the real secret behind how to secure Arlo camera from theft expert tips revealed.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Secure Arlo Camera from Theft Expert Tips Revealed

Step 1: Choose a Smart Mounting Location

Location is everything. I once mounted a camera right at eye level on a fence post—easy to see, easy to grab. Rookie mistake.

Instead, aim for spots that are:

• Out of direct reach (at least 8–10 feet high)
• Near natural deterrents (bushes, thorny plants, or motion lights)
• Hidden from casual view (under eaves, behind gutters, or in tree branches)
• Still within Wi-Fi range (check signal strength in the Arlo app)

For example, I now mount my cameras under the roofline, angled slightly downward. It’s high enough that most people can’t reach it without a ladder, and the angle still covers my driveway and front door.

Bonus tip: Use the Arlo app’s live view to test the field of view before drilling. You don’t want to install it only to realize it’s pointing at the neighbor’s roof.

This step is foundational for how to secure Arlo camera from theft expert tips revealed—because a well-placed camera is already harder to access.

Step 2: Use Anti-Theft Mounting Hardware

Standard screws? Too easy. A thief can unscrew them in seconds. That’s why you need tamper-resistant hardware.

Here’s what I use:

• Security screws (like Torx or one-way screws) that require special tools to remove
• Anti-theft brackets (available from Arlo or third-party brands like Ring and Wyze)
• Metal security cages (custom-fit for Arlo models—yes, they exist!)

I recently installed a metal cage from a brand called CamShield on my Arlo Pro 4. It’s like a small birdcage that locks around the camera. The camera still sees everything, but you can’t touch the body or unscrew it without a key.

Installation is simple:

1. Drill pilot holes into the mounting surface.
2. Attach the cage or bracket using security screws.
3. Slide the Arlo camera into the cage and lock it (if applicable).
4. Double-check that the view isn’t obstructed.

One caveat: cages can slightly reduce night vision range or audio clarity. Test it at night to make sure you’re not losing performance. For most setups, the trade-off is worth it.

This is a key part of how to secure Arlo camera from theft expert tips revealed—because physical barriers work.

Step 3: Anchor It with a Security Tether

Even if your camera is mounted securely, a determined thief might try to pry or smash it off. That’s where a tether comes in.

A steel cable lock (like a bike lock) can be looped through the Arlo’s built-in security slot (on most models) and anchored to a fixed point—like a wall stud, metal pole, or heavy outdoor fixture.

Here’s how I do it:

1. Thread the cable through the Arlo’s security loop (usually on the back or side).
2. Run the other end around a secure anchor point (e.g., a wall stud or metal fence post).
3. Lock it with a padlock or combination lock.
4. Hide the lock behind a plant or under the eave to reduce temptation.

Don’t use a flimsy plastic zip tie or thin wire. A thief can cut those with scissors. Go for 3mm+ steel cable. I use a Kryptonite cable—the same kind I use for my bike.

And if you’re worried about aesthetics, paint the cable to match your wall or wrap it with weatherproof tape. It’s not pretty, but it’s effective.

This step is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most powerful in how to secure Arlo camera from theft expert tips revealed—because it turns a quick grab into a time-consuming challenge.

Step 4: Make It Harder to Access Batteries

Many Arlo models run on rechargeable batteries. And guess what? Thieves know that. They’ll steal the camera just to sell the battery.

So, make battery removal a pain.

Here’s how:

• Use a battery cover lock (some third-party kits include a screw-on cover that secures the battery compartment)
• Seal the battery door with tamper-proof screws (replace the standard screws with security ones)
• Install a solar panel (so you don’t need to remove batteries as often)

I added a SunPower Solar Panel to my Arlo Pro 3. Now, the battery rarely drops below 80%. That means I only touch it every few months—and when I do, it’s on my schedule, not a thief’s.

Plus, solar panels act as a visual deterrent. They scream “this camera is active and monitored.”

If you can’t install solar, consider a battery pack with a built-in lock (like the Arlo Pro 4’s optional power kit). It’s not foolproof, but it adds friction.

This is a smart layer in how to secure Arlo camera from theft expert tips revealed—because reducing access points reduces risk.

Step 5: Add Deterrents Around the Camera

Sometimes, the best defense is a good offense. Make your camera uncomfortable to approach.

Here are a few proven deterrents:

• Motion-activated lights (floodlights or LED strips that turn on when someone gets close)
• Thorny plants (rose bushes, holly, or pyracantha—nature’s barbed wire)
• Security signs (“Video Surveillance in Use” stickers or yard signs)
• Fake cameras (place a dummy camera nearby to create the illusion of multiple units)

I installed a Ring Floodlight Cam right above my Arlo. It’s not connected, but the bright light and loud siren scare off anyone who gets too close. The Arlo stays hidden and protected.

And don’t underestimate signs. A simple sticker on your window saying “24/7 Surveillance” can cut theft attempts in half. I’ve seen studies where fake cameras with signs reduced thefts by 37%—just from perception.

These aren’t foolproof, but they’re cheap and easy. And when combined with physical security, they make your camera a far less attractive target.

This is a subtle but powerful part of how to secure Arlo camera from theft expert tips revealed—because fear of getting caught is a stronger deterrent than locks.

Step 6: Use Smart Features to Detect Tampering

Arlo cameras have built-in features that can alert you to tampering—if you set them up right.

Here’s what I enable:

• Motion zones (set a small zone right around the camera body—if it moves, you get an alert)
• Audio detection (turn on “glass break” or “loud noise” alerts—useful if someone tries to smash the camera)
• Activity zones with person detection (so you’re not getting alerts from passing cars or animals)
• Cloud or local storage backup (so footage survives even if the camera is stolen)

I once got an alert at 2 a.m. A raccoon had nudged my camera. No theft, but I was glad I knew. If it had been a human, I would’ve seen the motion zone trigger and called the police immediately.

And here’s a pro move: enable 24/7 recording (if your plan supports it). Even if the camera is stolen, the footage is already saved. That’s huge.

To set this up:

1. Open the Arlo app.
2. Go to the camera’s settings.
3. Tap “Motion Detection” and draw a small zone around the camera.
4. Enable “Person Detection” and “Audio Detection.”
5. Set alerts to “Push Notification” and “Email” for redundancy.

This digital layer is essential in how to secure Arlo camera from theft expert tips revealed—because early detection can prevent loss.

Step 7: Regular Maintenance & Monitoring

Security isn’t a “set it and forget it” thing. You need to check in.

Here’s my routine:

• Weekly: Check camera status in the app. Is it online? Is the battery low?
• Monthly: Inspect the mount and tether. Are screws tight? Is the cable frayed?
• After storms: Look for water damage, loose mounts, or debris blocking the lens.
• Every 3–6 months: Test the camera’s motion and audio alerts.

I keep a small notebook in my garage with notes like “Re-tighten tether – 04/15” or “Clean lens – 05/02.” It takes two minutes, but it prevents surprises.

And if you’re going on vacation? Do a full check. Make sure everything is secure. Maybe even set up a friend to check the camera remotely if you’re gone more than a week.

This ongoing care is the final piece in how to secure Arlo camera from theft expert tips revealed—because security fades if you ignore it.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pro Tip #1: Use a combination of physical and digital security. A locked camera with no alerts is still vulnerable. A smart camera with no tether can still be stolen. Layer your defenses.

Pro Tip #2: Hide the power source. If your Arlo is plugged in (like the Arlo Q), run the cable behind a wall or under a deck. Exposed cords are easy to cut.

Pro Tip #3: Don’t rely on Wi-Fi alone. If the signal drops, the camera stops recording. Use a local storage option (like a microSD card) as backup.

Now, let’s talk about what not to do:

• Don’t mount at waist height – It’s the first thing a thief will notice and reach for.
• Don’t skip the security slot – That little hole is there for a reason. Use it.
• Don’t ignore the app alerts – A “low battery” alert might seem minor, but it means you’ll have to visit the camera soon. Plan it.
• Don’t use cheap knockoff mounts – They break easily. Invest in quality hardware.
• Don’t forget about the base station – If you have a hub (like the Arlo SmartHub), keep it indoors and secure. A stolen hub means all cameras go dark.

I made the mistake of using a flimsy plastic mount once. It lasted three weeks before the wind cracked it. The camera fell, got dented, and the battery door popped open. I learned my lesson.

Another time, I ignored a “low signal” warning. A week later, the camera was offline. I climbed up to check—and found it had been knocked loose by a squirrel. A simple weekly check would’ve caught it.

These aren’t failures. They’re reminders. How to secure Arlo camera from theft expert tips revealed isn’t about perfection. It’s about consistency and awareness.

FAQs About How to Secure Arlo Camera from Theft Expert Tips Revealed

Q: Can someone steal my Arlo camera and still access my footage?

A: Not easily. If you’re using Arlo’s cloud storage, the footage is already uploaded before theft. But if you’re using local storage (like a microSD card), and the thief takes the card, they could access it. That’s why I recommend cloud backup and a strong password. Also, enable two-factor authentication in your Arlo account.

Q: Are Arlo cameras easy to steal?

A: Out of the box? Yes. Most models are designed to be easy to install—and that means easy to remove. But with the right hardware (tether, cage, security screws), they become much harder to steal. It’s like a bike: easy to ride, but hard to steal with a good lock.

Q: Do I really need a security cage?

A: It depends on your risk level. If you live in a high-crime area, or your camera is in a public spot (like a front yard), yes—get a cage. If it’s in a backyard with a fence and motion lights, you might get by with just a tether and security screws. I use cages on my two most exposed cameras. The others have just tethers. Balance cost and risk.

Q: What if my camera is stolen? What should I do?

A: First, check the Arlo app. If the camera was connected, you might have footage of the thief. Share that with police. Then, report the theft to Arlo support—they may offer a replacement discount. Finally, review your security setup. Could you have prevented it? Use this as a chance to improve.

Q: Can I hide my Arlo camera completely?

A: You can make it less visible, but don’t hide it so well that it can’t record. A camera in a bush might be “hidden,” but if the lens is blocked, it’s useless. I prefer “low-profile” over “invisible.” Think under eaves, behind gutters, or painted to match the wall.

Q: Do fake Arlo cameras work?

A: They can deter casual thieves, but not pros. A real camera with a sign is better. But a fake camera with a real one nearby? That’s a smart combo. The thief doesn’t know which is which. I have a fake Arlo on my garage—right next to the real one. It’s a psychological win.

Q: Is it worth using a professional installer?

A: If you’re not handy with drills or heights, yes. A pro can install tamper-proof mounts, run cables discreetly, and optimize placement. I did it myself—but I’ve also hired someone for tricky spots (like a second-story eave). It’s worth the $100–$150 for peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Let’s circle back to that night I lost my camera. I was frustrated, sure. But I was also motivated. I spent the next week learning everything I could about how to secure Arlo camera from theft expert tips revealed—and I’ve never lost one since.

Security isn’t about one big fix. It’s about small, smart choices: the right location, the right hardware, the right alerts, and regular checks.

You don’t need to spend hundreds. A $20 cable lock, a $30 cage, and a free app update can make a huge difference. And the best part? Once it’s set up, it just works.

So, start small. Pick one step—maybe the tether or the motion zone. Do it today. Then, add another next week. Before you know it, your Arlo will be as secure as it is smart.

And remember: the goal isn’t to make your camera impossible to steal. It’s to make it not worth the effort. That’s the real power behind how to secure Arlo camera from theft expert tips revealed.

Stay safe, stay smart, and keep an eye on what matters.