Facing the Unthinkable: What to Do if Your Arlo Doorbell is Stolen
It's a sickening feeling. You rely on your Arlo doorbell to keep an eye on your home, deter potential intruders, and provide peace of mind. Then, one day, you go to check the feed, and it's gone. Whether it was ripped from your porch or cleverly bypassed, the thought of your Arlo doorbell being stolen is unsettling. But don't panic. This article will walk you through exactly what to do, from securing your account to potentially replacing your device.
Immediate Steps to Take After Discovering Your Arlo Doorbell is Stolen
The moment you realize your Arlo doorbell is missing, it's crucial to act swiftly. Your primary goals are to secure your Arlo account, report the theft, and gather information for any potential recovery or insurance claims.
1. Secure Your Arlo Account Immediately
This is the absolute top priority. If the thief has physical access to your doorbell, they might try to access your Arlo account. You need to make sure they can't:
- Log Out of All Devices: Open your Arlo app or log into your Arlo account via a web browser on a trusted device. Navigate to your account settings. Look for an option that allows you to "Log Out of All Devices" or a similar command. This will immediately disconnect any unauthorized access.
- Change Your Password: Create a strong, unique password that you haven't used anywhere else. Consider using a password manager for this.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): If you haven't already, enable 2FA on your Arlo account. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code from your phone or authenticator app in addition to your password. This is vital even if your physical device is gone.
2. Report the Theft to Local Law Enforcement
Even if you don't expect to get your doorbell back, filing a police report is essential for several reasons:
- Official Record: It creates an official record of the incident.
- Insurance Claims: Many homeowner's or renter's insurance policies require a police report for theft claims.
- Potential Recovery: While unlikely, a police report could aid in the recovery of stolen property if it's found in a raid or during an investigation.
When you contact the police, be prepared to provide:
- The make and model of the stolen device (Arlo doorbell).
- The serial number of your doorbell (you can usually find this in your Arlo app under Device Settings if you haven't removed it yet, or on the original packaging).
- The date and approximate time of the theft.
- Any security camera footage you might have from other cameras (even non-Arlo ones) that captured the incident.
- Any details about how it was removed or any damage left behind.
3. Check Your Arlo Cloud Recordings (If Applicable)
If you have an Arlo Smart subscription that includes cloud storage, there's a chance your doorbell may have captured footage of the theft itself or the perpetrator.
- Access your Arlo app or web interface and review your recording library for the period leading up to when you noticed the doorbell was gone.
- Look for any suspicious activity, vehicles, or individuals in the vicinity. Even if the doorbell was physically taken, it might have recorded the event.
4. Contact Arlo Support
While Arlo cannot recover stolen hardware, they can assist you in deactivating the device from your account and can guide you through any account security measures.
- Visit the Arlo support website or contact them directly through the app.
- Explain that your Arlo doorbell has been stolen.
- They will likely guide you through deactivating the device from your Arlo account to prevent anyone else from using it or accessing your data if they manage to reset it.
- This also helps Arlo identify the device as stolen, which can be important for future security efforts.
5. Review Your Homeowner's or Renter's Insurance Policy
Your insurance policy might cover the cost of replacing your stolen Arlo doorbell. This is especially true if the theft occurred as part of a larger home break-in or if you have specific coverage for personal property outside your home.
- Check your policy details or contact your insurance provider.
- Be prepared to provide the police report number and proof of purchase for the doorbell.
- Understand your deductible, as you will likely need to pay that amount before your insurance covers the rest.
What Happens to the Stolen Arlo Doorbell?
Once an Arlo doorbell is stolen, its connectivity to your Arlo account is severed. If you've successfully secured your account and had Arlo support deactivate the device, it essentially becomes a "brick" to anyone trying to use it with your account. However, a determined thief might attempt to:
- Factory Reset the Device: Some smart devices can be factory reset, which erases all previous settings and allows them to be set up as new. However, the ability to do this without specific knowledge or access to your Arlo account might be limited, especially for newer Arlo models.
- Resell the Device: Unfortunately, stolen electronics are sometimes sold on the black market or to unsuspecting individuals. If the device has been properly deactivated from your account by Arlo support, it should not be usable with your Arlo service, but it could still be sold for parts or to someone unaware of its previous association.
It's important to understand that Arlo's security measures are designed to protect your data and account even if the physical device is compromised. The cloud recording feature and account security are your strongest defenses here.
Replacing Your Stolen Arlo Doorbell
The disappointment of a stolen doorbell is significant, but thankfully, replacing it is straightforward. You have several options:
- Purchase a New Arlo Doorbell: You can buy a brand new Arlo doorbell from authorized retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, or directly from the Arlo website.
- Consider Refurbished Options: Arlo sometimes offers certified refurbished devices at a lower price point. These can be a good way to save money while still getting a functional device.
- Upgrade Your System: If you're looking for enhanced features or a different model, now might be the time to upgrade your Arlo doorbell.
When setting up your new doorbell, ensure you follow the installation instructions carefully and immediately secure your Arlo account with a strong password and 2FA.
Preventing Future Theft of Your Arlo Doorbell
While no security measure is foolproof, there are several steps you can take to make your Arlo doorbell less of a target and more difficult to steal:
- Secure Mounting: Ensure your doorbell is mounted as securely as possible. Use tamper-resistant screws if available. Some Arlo models have optional security mounts or angle mounts that can make them harder to pry off.
- Strategic Placement: While you want a clear view, consider placing the doorbell where it's not immediately obvious or easily accessible from the street.
- Visibility of Other Cameras: If you have other visible security cameras (Arlo or otherwise) on your property, their presence can act as a deterrent. Thieves are less likely to target a property that appears to be heavily monitored.
- Good Lighting: Well-lit areas are less appealing to thieves. Ensure your porch area is adequately illuminated, especially at night.
- Community Awareness: Engage with your neighbors. A strong neighborhood watch can deter crime and lead to quicker reporting of suspicious activity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I report my Arlo doorbell as stolen to Arlo?
You should contact Arlo support directly. You can usually do this through the Arlo app or by visiting their support website. Explain that your device has been stolen, and they can help you deactivate it from your account to enhance security and prevent unauthorized use.
Will Arlo replace my stolen doorbell?
Arlo typically does not replace stolen hardware. Their responsibility is to help you secure your account and data. You will likely need to file a police report and an insurance claim with your homeowner's or renter's insurance to recoup the cost of the stolen device.
Can I use a stolen Arlo doorbell if I buy it second-hand?
If an Arlo doorbell has been reported stolen and deactivated from the previous owner's account by Arlo support, it should not be usable with an Arlo account. Attempting to set it up might result in an error message indicating the device is linked to another account. It's always best to purchase electronics from reputable sources.
What if my Arlo doorbell camera captured the thief?
If your doorbell captured footage of the theft, download those recordings immediately. This footage is crucial evidence for your police report and any insurance claims. It can also help law enforcement identify the perpetrator.
