Arlo is a popular brand of security devices, with their most notable product being security cameras. If you own or have considered purchasing Arlo cameras, you may have wondered, “can Arlo cameras be hacked?”
Generally, Arlo cameras are secure and won’t pose a significant security risk to your property. However, there are some vulnerabilities that a hacker can exploit if you aren’t careful with your sensitive data.
Unfortunately, no security camera is 100% safe from hackers. As an owner, it’s your responsibility to ensure your Arlo cameras aren’t an easy target. This article will discuss how criminals can hack Arlo cameras and what you can do to protect your system.
Can Arlo Security Cameras Be Hacked Easily?
Since 2014, Arlo has been a growing security camera brand with innovative smart home products. Throughout the brand’s history, there have been several instances of a customer having their cameras hacked.
In a 2020 news report, a Russian website was found to be streaming videos from Arlo and other security cameras. The website streamed footage of security cameras for viewers to watch. Sometimes, the viewers could even control the cameras by zooming in and out!
While this is a rare situation, it’s important to note there are documented vulnerabilities to Wi-Fi cameras. A skilled hacker can access unsecured cameras remotely and access your system. Fortunately, you can make some adjustments that drastically cut the risk of hacking.
How Do Hackers Access Arlo Cameras?
When someone thinks of a hacker, they likely imagine someone who hacks a camera using complex network techniques. However, the hacker will usually take advantage of you dropping your guard on account security. Below are some of the ways hackers can access Arlo cameras.
Arlo Account
The most common way to hack an Arlo camera is through your personal account details. Owners typically don’t prioritize protecting sensitive data like their Arlo account’s usernames and passwords.
We all think we won’t be the victim of system hacking until it’s too late. Be mindful of where you input your login details and check who emails you. If you received an email from Arlo, confirm it’s their official email before you click any link.
Network Router
An Arlo camera requires a connection to your home’s network, and skilled hackers can exploit this pathway. Once hackers access your network router, they can view sensitive system information on your Arlo cameras.
There is a wide range of methods to attack a wireless router, with some of them being:
- Wi-Fi Jamming
- Packet Sniffing
- Rogue Access Points
- And Many More
While this isn’t directly related to Arlo systems, you should take extra steps to protect your home’s network. Not only will you protect your Arlo cameras, but the other systems in your home.
Physical Network Access
Remote network attacks are more common, but you may also be a victim of a physical network attack. A hacker may use a physical device like a signal jammer or connect to your home’s wireless router. Once they have access, they can disrupt the signal.
When hackers have physical access to a network, they can adjust account settings, disarm the cameras, or redirect mobile security notifications. Since this attack is a physical device, your best defense is making your Arlo cameras hard to access.
What to Do If Someone Hacks Your Arlo Cameras
Do you think someone hacked into your Arlo cameras? If a criminal hacked your equipment, you should not hesitate to take action. First, you should contact Arlo support immediately to report the incident.
When a hacker gains access to your account, they will attempt to change the login information. Telling support that your account was compromised will help you prevent any changes and allow you to reset your account details.
Generally, resetting your login will keep the hacker out of your Arlo cameras again. However, it’s best to turn to Arlo for guidance on what to do in this situation. If Arlo believes your cameras have affected firmware, they may offer a replacement.
3 Best Ways to Protect an Arlo Camera From Hacking
1. Enable Two-Factor Authentification
Two-factor authentification is one of the most effective ways to add an extra layer of security to your accounts. As security specialists, we recommend you enable 2FA on all accounts–including your Arlo account.
When you enable two-factor authentication, you will receive a one-time password every time you log into your account. The randomly generated passwords make it difficult for hackers to bypass your account’s security.
2. Monitor System Updates Regularly
Arlo regularly updates their systems to patch any potential vulnerabilities. Whenever an update is pending, you should download it to keep your system secure. If you wait too long, a hacker may use the discovered exploit to enter your system.
3. Change Account Password Periodically
It’s common for people to use the same password for many of their systems, so it’s easier to remember. However, a common password choice makes accessing your systems easy for criminals.
Once every few months, you should change your Arlo account’s password to enhance security. Pick a complex password that’s not easy to guess and keeps your Arlo cameras safe from hacking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Arlo emphasizes the security of their cameras with secure AES encryption and HTTPS connections. However, it is up to the system owner to maintain the security of their account information. Arlo system homeowners should enable two-factor authentification and use a strong password.
Several signs point to the possibility of your security camera being hacked. Some of the most common signs are changing security settings, unusual blinking lights, and an inability to command your system. However, you should rule out technical issues before determining if it’s a hacked system.
Arlo does not share system data with any organization, including local law enforcement organizations. However, Arlo will share user footage and information if they receive a court order or search warrant. Additionally, there is an e911 feature on the Arlo app you can enable to notify the police of an emergency.
Conclusion
If you’ve been asking yourself, “can Arlo cameras be hacked?” this article covers the truth about these systems. While Arlo cameras are generally secure, an owner can put the system at risk with poor account security skills.
Keep your Arlo account secure with 2FA and a strong password to prevent hackers from accessing your cameras. With these things in mind, you can keep your Arlo cameras safe and secure!