Ring cameras offer convenient security in a day and age where a porch delivery threat is a major concern. Designed to provide peace of mind, these cameras can sometimes be susceptible to hackers.

Ring cameras can be susceptible to hacking, but there are many things that you can do to prevent this from occurring. Making your passwords strong, updating them frequently, and enabling two-factor authentication are all simple steps that you can take to safeguard your Ring cameras from attacks.

You can also update some important settings options in your Wi-Fi router. There are many other advanced steps that you can take to reduce risk, as is revealed below.

Can Ring Cameras Be Hacked?

Recent headlines in the news have reported doorbell ring systems being hacked. Consumer Reports warns that as many as 3,000 Ring cameras accounts are susceptible to hacking.

Manufacturers maintain that these events are preventable. Sales continue to jump, despite the news of hacks. In December 2019, more than 400,000 new doorbell Ring cameras were purchased, and that’s only counting the systems manufactured by Jumpshot. Doorbell cameras like Ring have numerous advantages in a day and age when delivery and mail theft is at an all-time high.

Still, the fact that these hacks happen at all is understandably quite frightening. Manufacturers assert that these are preventable, as long as you take the simple steps below to discourage hacking.

How To Prevent Your Ring Camera From Being Hacked

It’s worth mentioning that you probably shouldn’t be skimping out when it comes to doorbell cameras. Look for products with advanced security features, such as this wired Ring doorbell. You’ll also want to pay close attention to the recommendations below.

Make Strong Passwords & Change Them Frequently

Weak passwords make you vulnerable to attacks. This is the case for all password-protected applications. A complex password is one with a randomized set of numbers and letters. You are encouraged to update your password every 1-2 months.

Enable Two-Step Verification

Doorbell Ring cameras are equipped with a two-factor authentication process. This is optional, however, and many owners fail to enroll due to either a lack of awareness or complaints about the inconvenience of extra steps needed for logging in.

  • The first step will involve entering your password as normal.Then you will receive a one-use code through email or text.

Two-factor authentication is exponentially more secure than most other options. Biometric authentication is even better. This includes features such as fingerprint activation or facial activation.

Confirm Firmware Updates

Doorbell Ring cameras are designed to automatically receive firmware updates. This helps fix bugs as they arise and improve security. Periodically ensuring that updates are fully-installed will reduce the likelihood of your device becoming hacked.

Clear Old Security Footage

Some door Ring cameras may allow users to store security footage for up to 60 days with a subscription plan. You might consider deleting recent activity from the app to deter hackers from using old footage against you.

Clearing footage is a simple process. For example, with Ring brand doorbells, you can delete old footage by simply visiting the phone app, selecting events you wish to delete, and tapping a trash icon. Refer to the instruction manual for your specific doorbell for steps on how to delete stored footage.

Avoid DIY Security Cameras

Some homeowners have been buying security cameras and setting up their own makeshift ring camera system by connecting these to their home Wi-Fi network.

Experts warn against this practice. DIY home security cameras are accessible online and highly susceptible to hacking.

Improve Wireless Router Security

Weak router protection also makes your home susceptible to attacks. Since Ring cameras are connected to wireless networks, it’s paramount that you take the following steps to beef up your home security:

  • Change the default password for the router to something more complex.Make sure that either WPA3 or WPA2 encryption is turned on. This option can be found in the wireless security settings for your device, if available.Turn Off Universal Plug & Play.

Many routers have Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) turned on automatically. Computer gamers like to have UPnP on since they need this feature to share their home network with other players. You are encouraged to turn UPnP off unless you need it.

Install A Firewall & Antivirus Service

Stand-alone firewall and antivirus services can provide an ironclad safeguard against hacks. Norton is one of the leaders in cyber security offering such services. These services aim to provide protection against viruses, malware, hacking, and much more. You can purchase Norton software here.

Final Thoughts

As many as 3,000 doorbell Ring cameras may be susceptible to hacking. This possibility can be quite frightening and might discourage you from purchasing one of these cameras. The good news is that you can make these significantly safer through just a few quick steps.

For one thing, you’ll want to make sure that you are constantly updating passwords and making those passwords strong. Don’t share your password with anyone. You are also encouraged to take some of the more advanced steps mentioned above.