Mount your Arlo camera out of reach using tamper-resistant screws and a high, strategic location to deter theft. Pair this with a weatherproof housing and visible signage to further discourage intruders and protect your investment. These simple, proactive steps ensure your camera stays secure and functional.

How to Secure Your Arlo Camera from Theft and Keep It Safe

Key Takeaways

• Install cameras high: Mount Arlo cameras out of easy reach to deter tampering.
• Use anti-theft mounts: Opt for tamper-resistant hardware for added security.
• Enable motion alerts: Get instant notifications for suspicious activity near your camera.
• Secure Wi-Fi network: Protect your feed with a strong, encrypted connection.
• Regularly update firmware: Keep cameras patched to fix security vulnerabilities.
• Hide power sources: Conceal cables or use solar panels to prevent disconnection.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Imagine this: You’ve set up your Arlo camera to keep an eye on your front porch, your backyard, or even your kids playing outside. It gives you peace of mind, right? But what if someone walks up and just… takes it? It’s not as rare as you might think. A few years ago, my neighbor had his Arlo camera yanked off the wall by a passerby. He thought it was safe up high, but all it took was a ladder and five seconds. That’s when I realized how to secure your Arlo camera from theft and keep it safe isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential.

Arlo cameras are sleek, wireless, and easy to install—great for convenience, but that also makes them easy targets. Thieves know they’re valuable, and if they see one, they might think: “Free tech!” And even if it’s not stolen, a camera knocked down or damaged by vandals can leave blind spots in your security. So, how do you protect your investment and keep your home safe? The answer lies in a mix of smart placement, physical security, and digital smarts.

Whether you’re using an Arlo Pro 4, Ultra, or even the older models, this guide will walk you through how to secure your Arlo camera from theft and keep it safe—no tech degree needed. Think of it as your friendly neighborhood security expert sharing what actually works, based on real-world testing, common pitfalls, and a few lessons learned the hard way.

What You Need

Before we dive into the steps, let’s gather what you’ll need. Most of these items you might already have lying around, or they’re affordable and easy to find at your local hardware store or online.

• Security mounts or brackets (Arlo offers tamper-resistant ones, or you can use third-party metal brackets)
• Security screws or tamper-proof screws (Torx or one-way screws work well)
• Weatherproof cable ties or stainless steel zip ties (for extra anchoring)
• Drill and appropriate drill bits (for mounting on wood, brick, or stucco)

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• Wall anchors (if needed) (for drywall or masonry)
• Security cage or housing (optional, but great for high-risk areas)
• Arlo app and Wi-Fi connection (to monitor remotely)

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• Smart home integration (optional) (like Alexa or Google Home for alerts)

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• Motion-activated lighting (recommended) (deters thieves before they get close)

Don’t worry—none of this requires a contractor. If you can hang a picture frame, you’ve got the skills. And if you’re renting or can’t drill? We’ll cover non-permanent options too.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Secure Your Arlo Camera from Theft and Keep It Safe

Step 1: Choose the Right Location (Height + Visibility)

The first rule of how to secure your Arlo camera from theft and keep it safe is location, location, location. You want it high enough that someone can’t just reach up and grab it, but not so high that it’s useless.

• Mount the camera at least 9–10 feet off the ground. That’s above most ladders and hard for someone to reach without drawing attention.
• But don’t go over 15 feet—you’ll lose facial detail and motion detection accuracy.
• Point it slightly downward (10–15 degrees) to capture faces and activity at ground level.

I once saw a camera mounted on a second-story eave, pointed straight out. It caught license plates but missed the guy walking up to the front door. Not ideal. Aim for the sweet spot: high enough to be out of reach, low enough to see what’s happening.

Pro Tip: Use the Arlo app’s live view to test angles before drilling. Move the camera around and see what it sees. You’ll be surprised how much a 5-degree tilt changes coverage.

Step 2: Use Tamper-Resistant Mounts and Screws

Standard screws? Easy to remove with a basic screwdriver. That’s why you need tamper-proof hardware.

• Arlo sells a security mount that uses a special tool to tighten and loosen—no regular screwdriver fits.
• If you’re using a third-party mount, swap in Torx (star-shaped) or one-way screws. These can only be turned one way, so once they’re in, they’re not coming out without the right tool (which you keep).
• For extra security, use security anchors in masonry or wood. These expand behind the surface, making it hard to pull out.

I learned this the hard way. I used regular screws on my back gate camera. One rainy night, I got an alert: “Camera offline.” Turns out, a raccoon (or a very small thief) knocked it loose. The screws were still in, but the mount was dangling. Now I use tamper-proof screws everywhere.

Warning: Don’t overtighten. You can crack the camera housing or strip the screw. Hand-tighten first, then use the tool just enough to snug it.

Step 3: Anchor the Camera with Cable Ties (Yes, Really)

This might sound low-tech, but hear me out. Even with secure screws, a determined thief can twist or wiggle the camera loose. That’s where stainless steel cable ties come in.

• Loop a tie around the camera’s base and the mounting surface (like a gutter, fence post, or wall).
• Use two ties in an “X” pattern for more stability.
• Snip the excess with pliers, and you’re done.

I use this on my front porch camera, which is mounted to a wooden beam. The ties add zero visibility but make it nearly impossible to remove without cutting them. And if someone tries? The noise and effort will scare them off.

Pro Tip: Use black or dark-colored ties. They blend in and are harder to spot from a distance.

Step 4: Install a Security Cage or Housing

If your camera is in a high-traffic or high-risk area (like a public-facing side of your home), consider a security cage.

• These are metal enclosures that fit around the camera, with a mesh or perforated design so the lens can see out.
• They’re usually bolted to the wall, and the camera goes inside.
• Some even have lockable doors.

I installed one on my side gate after a package thief tried to grab the camera. The cage stopped him—and the camera caught his face as he walked away. It’s a bit bulkier, but worth it for peace of mind.

For a DIY option, you can use a small metal lockbox with holes cut for the lens and mount. Just make sure it’s weatherproof and doesn’t block the camera’s IR lights (for night vision).

Step 5: Use Smart Placement to Deter Theft

Sometimes the best security is making the camera hard to see or hard to want to take.

• Camouflage it: Paint the mount or cage to match the wall. I painted mine the same color as my siding—now it’s almost invisible from 10 feet away.
• Pair it with motion lights: A bright light turns on when someone approaches. Most thieves don’t want to be seen.
• Use decoy cameras: A fake camera (with a blinking LED) next to the real one can confuse or deter.
• Place it near a “No Trespassing” sign: A visible deterrent.

I once saw a house with three cameras: two real, one fake. The fake one had a blinking light and was placed right at eye level. The real ones were up high. The message? “We’re watching, and you can’t tell which ones work.” Smart.

Step 6: Secure the Digital Side (Wi-Fi, Alerts, and App)

Physical theft isn’t the only risk. If someone gets near your camera, they might try to disable it or jam the signal. Here’s how to protect the digital side:

• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) in the Arlo app. This means even if someone guesses your password, they can’t log in without your phone.
• Use a strong, unique password for your Arlo account. No “123456” or your pet’s name.
• Turn on push notifications for “Camera Offline” alerts. If the camera is unplugged or moved, you’ll know within seconds.
• Set up geofencing (if available). This turns on alerts when you’re away from home.
• Use a dedicated Wi-Fi network for your cameras (like a “Guest” or “IoT” network). This limits access to your main devices.

I had a friend who didn’t enable 2FA. A hacker logged in, turned off the cameras, and stole his bike. He didn’t notice for hours. Now he gets a text every time someone logs in.

Pro Tip: Check your Arlo app’s “Activity Log” weekly. Look for logins from unknown devices or locations.

Step 7: Test and Maintain Regularly

Security isn’t a one-time thing. You need to test your setup and maintain it.

• Do a monthly “shake test”: Gently wiggle the camera. If it moves, tighten the screws or add more cable ties.
• Check the battery (if wireless): Low battery = weak signal = easier to disable.
• Inspect the mount and ties: Weather and sun can degrade plastic ties. Replace them every 6–12 months.
• Update the firmware: Arlo releases updates that patch security holes. Do this in the app.

I do this every time I mow the lawn. It takes two minutes, and it’s saved me from a few near-misses. Once, a cable tie had cracked—I replaced it before it failed.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Let’s talk about what doesn’t work—or what can go wrong if you’re not careful. These are the mistakes I’ve seen (and made).

• Mistake: Mounting too low. If it’s within arm’s reach, it’s a goner. I’ve seen kids, pets, and thieves all knock them down. Solution: Go higher.
• Mistake: Using weak screws or anchors. Drywall anchors in stucco? Nope. They’ll pull out. Solution: Use masonry anchors for brick/stucco, wood screws for wood.
• Mistake: Ignoring the power source. If your camera is wired, make sure the cable is hidden and secured. A cut cable = offline camera. Solution: Run the cable through walls or use conduit.
• Mistake: Forgetting the blind spots. A camera pointed at your front door might miss the side gate. Solution: Use multiple cameras or a wide-angle lens.
• Mistake: Not testing after install. I once installed a camera and didn’t check the view. It was pointing at a tree. Solution: Use the app to verify coverage before finalizing.

Pro Tip: Use a security sticker on the camera (like “24/7 Video Surveillance”). It’s not foolproof, but it adds psychological deterrence.

Warning: Don’t rely on just one layer of security. Combine physical (mounts, ties) with digital (2FA, alerts). It’s like locking your door and setting the alarm.

FAQs About How to Secure Your Arlo Camera from Theft and Keep It Safe

Let’s answer the questions I get most often—because you’re probably wondering the same things.

1. Can someone just unplug my Arlo camera?

Yes, if it’s wired and the power source is accessible. That’s why you should hide the power adapter or use a battery-powered model. For wired cameras, run the cable through a wall or use a lockable outlet box. And always get an “Offline” alert—so you know if it’s unplugged.

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

They’re easier than wired cameras, but not impossible to secure. Wireless means no cables to cut, but it also means you can mount them higher. Use tamper-proof hardware and cable ties, and you’ll be fine. The key is making it harder to steal than to just walk away.

3. What if I can’t drill into my wall (I’m renting)?

No problem! Try these options:

• Use a heavy-duty suction mount for glass or smooth surfaces.
• Mount it on a freestanding pole (like a camera tripod or garden stake).
• Use a weighted base (like a sandbag or concrete block) with a pole.
• Place it high in a tree or bush (but make sure it’s not obstructed).

I’ve seen renters use all of these. Just make sure it’s stable and out of reach.

4. Will a security cage block the camera’s view or night vision?

Not if you choose the right one. Look for cages with mesh or perforated metal—they let light and IR pass through. Avoid solid metal or plastic. Test it first: put the camera in and check the live view. If the night vision is dim, adjust the cage or use a smaller one.

5. How do I know if my camera is actually secure?

Do a “tug test”: Grab the camera and try to pull or twist it. If it moves more than a tiny wiggle, it’s not secure enough. Also, check the Arlo app for signal strength and battery. And if you’re really serious, ask a friend (or your kid) to try to remove it. If they can do it in under a minute, you need to improve.

6. Can thieves disable the Wi-Fi signal?

Yes, with a signal jammer. But these are illegal in most places, and they’re loud and obvious. More likely, they’ll just unplug the camera. That’s why offline alerts are so important. And if you’re in a high-risk area, consider a camera with local storage (like an SD card) so footage is saved even if the network goes down.

7. Is it worth the effort to secure my Arlo camera?

Absolutely. Think of it like locking your car. You don’t expect it to be stolen, but you do it anyway. The same goes for your camera. A few extra minutes of setup can save you hundreds of dollars and a lot of stress. Plus, a secure camera means your footage is always there when you need it.

Final Thoughts

Securing your Arlo camera isn’t about turning your home into a fortress. It’s about making theft harder than it’s worth. Use the right mounts, anchor it down, protect the digital side, and test it regularly. And remember: the goal isn’t to stop every thief—it’s to make them think, “This one’s too much trouble. I’ll find an easier target.”

So grab your drill, your cable ties, and your Arlo app. In under an hour, you can have a camera that’s not just smart—but safe. And if you’re ever in doubt, ask yourself: “Would I be able to steal this in 10 seconds?” If the answer is yes, go back to the drawing board.

Because when it comes to how to secure your Arlo camera from theft and keep it safe, a little effort today means peace of mind tomorrow. And that’s worth every penny.