Can Security Cameras Be Stolen And 12 Ways To Prevent Stealing

Photo of author

By Rose Marie

Have you ever wondered if security cameras are actually secure themselves? Can security cameras be stolen, leaving your property vulnerable to intruders? These are valid concerns, especially for those who rely on security cameras to protect their homes and businesses.

The short answer is yes; they can be. Despite their purpose of deterring theft and capturing footage of criminal activity, cameras themselves can become targets of thieves.

In this article, we will explore the reasons why security cameras are stolen and what you can do to prevent it from happening.

From outdoor cameras to Arlo, Wyze, and Blink devices – I will guide you with everything you need to know about securing your surveillance system. So sit back, relax, and read on to learn how to keep your home safe.

can security cameras be stolen - answer is yes

Contents

Do Security Cameras be stolen? Answer is Yes

The answer is yes – security cameras can be stolen. In fact, they are often targeted by thieves who want to avoid being caught on camera themselves. This is especially true for outdoor cameras that may not have the same level of protection as indoor ones.

Having your security camera stolen can leave you feeling vulnerable and exposed. It’s important to take steps to protect your security cameras from theft. 

Suggested Readings

Why would someone steal a security camera? 4 Reasons

There are several reasons why someone would steal a security camera. Here are a few of them.

  • Firstly, thieves may want to remove any evidence of their criminal activity that the cameras might have captured. By stealing the cameras, they can ensure that there is no proof against them in case they get caught.
  • Secondly, some people may steal security cameras as a form of vandalism or revenge against the homeowner or business owner. They may view it as an invasion of privacy and seek to destroy the equipment out of anger.
  • Thirdly, security cameras can be expensive and valuable items themselves. Thieves could sell them for quick cash or use them for their own surveillance purposes.
  • Finally, some individuals with malicious intent might try to hack into the system and use the feed from stolen cameras for illegal activities such as stalking or blackmail.

Regardless of why someone would steal a security camera, it’s important to take measures to prevent theft and protect your property from potential intruders.

How to prevent your security cameras from being stolen – 12 Best Ways

To prevent your security cameras from being stolen, here are 12 best ways:

1. Mount the camera high and out of reach

This is the most basic and common tactic for preventing theft. If the camera is not accessible to thieves, they are less likely to want to steal it. Place your security camera out of reach, preferably at a height of 8-10 feet or more.

Place cameras at 8-10 feet height - can security cameras be stolen

Installing your security camera in a visible location can be an excellent deterrent for potential intruders. If they know their movements are being monitored, they are less likely to attempt any wrongdoing on your property.

2. Use a security camera system with multiple cameras

 If you have a single-camera system, it’s more likely that one camera will be stolen. Using a security camera system with multiple cameras makes it more difficult for thieves to steal individual cameras.

If one camera is stolen, the thief will likely be caught on camera. Additionally, multiple cameras make monitoring a wider area easier and detect suspicious activity. You can also use the video footage to identify potential suspects.

3. Use mounting brackets with screws & Use Motion Detectors

If your security camera is not mounted securely, thieves will likely steal it. To prevent theft, use mounting brackets that come with screws. This will make it harder for thieves to remove the camera without being noticed.

It can also be a good idea to use a security camera system with motion detection so that if the camera is moved, it will be automatically activated and recorded.

4. Use a secure camera housing

Some security cameras come with housings that are designed to be tamper-proof and weather resistant. These provide an extra layer of protection for your camera and can help to prevent theft or vandalism.

You can also use a security camera housing to conceal your camera, making it harder for thieves to find.

Housing of cameras - to prevent stealing

I am currently using a Swann wireless security camera with weatherproof housing, which provides excellent protection against the elements and any attempt to steal or vandalize it

5. Concealment is key

Disguise cameras as everyday household items like smoke detectors or clocks to make them less conspicuous.

You can also hide them behind objects like shelves or curtains to further conceal their presence. Outdoor cameras can be disguised as rocks, birdhouses or other landscape features.

Suggested Readings

6. Keep your cameras up-to-date

Ensure your camera runs the latest firmware, and check often for updates. Many manufacturers periodically release new features or security patches to protect their products from hackers. 

For instance, my Swann wireless security camera has a firmware update that improves performance and security.

7. Add warning signs and stickers

Make it clear that your property is under surveillance with visible signage around the perimeter and on doors and windows. Warning signs that explain the penalties for trespassing or loitering will also help to deter criminal activity.

With a camera system, you can also use stickers on windows and doors that tell potential criminals that your property is under surveillance. This is an easy, cheap way to ensure everyone knows your property is protected.

8. Install motion-activated lights

Bright lights will turn on when someone approaches the camera, which could deter potential thieves.

These motion-activated lights can be installed near the security camera and set to turn on when motion is detected. This will provide extra protection for your home and help deter potential thieves.

Bright lights shows that someone is approaching toward camera

9. Secure Wi-Fi networks and devices connected to them

Make sure all devices connected to your network have strong passwords. You should use WPA encryption for Wi-Fi connections instead of WEP. Change default usernames and passwords often and keep firmware updated regularly.

You should disable WPS and use a virtual private network (VPN) service for secure remote access to the network. Ensure to set up firewalls to block malicious traffic.

10. Utilize cloud storage services for the backup footage storage

Cloud storage services are a great way to store backup footage in a secure and easily accessible place. Services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and iCloud all offer cloud storage solutions to ensure your footage is safe and secure.

Additionally, these services often have security protocols in place that protect your data from unauthorized access.

Cloud storage services for security cameras to prevent stealing

11. Hire Professional installation

A professional installer can determine where cams should be placed while also ensuring they’re adequately installed so no one can walk away with them.

Professional installers are experienced and skilled in the installation process, so they can help you get the most value out of your security cameras.

12. Create a neighborhood watch group

Encourage neighbors living close by who may also feel threatened by crime activity in their area to band together and form a neighborhood watch group.

The group’s goal should be to protect each other and their property by alerting and reporting suspicious activity to the police or local authorities.

Ideally, the neighborhood watch should meet at least once a month to discuss issues, share resources, and plan activities that will help keep everyone safe.

It is important for members to be able to recognize any unusual behavior or signs of potential danger to alert appropriate authorities.

By following these simple steps, you can help ensure that your outdoor security cameras stay safe and provide continued protection for you and your family while keeping burglars at bay.

Suggested Readings

Vandalism Or Stealing Of Different Security Cameras

Vandalism or stealing of different security cameras is common in today’s world. Criminals often target these devices as they provide evidence against them, making it easier for law enforcement to apprehend them.

Here I will discuss the stealing of different security camera brands and how to prevent them.

1. Arlo’s Cameras – Can Arlo’s camera be stolen?

The answer is yes; Arlo cameras can be stolen just like any other valuable item. Thieves may target these devices because of their high resale value or to gain access to footage that could identify them in case they commit a crime.

How to secure Arlo’s camera from being stolen? Specific Method

So how can you prevent your Arlo camera from being stolen? Prevention methods are similar to those discussed above for cameras generally. However, here I will tell you some specific protection or prevention for Arlo’s Cameras.

  • It’s advisable to keep track of your Arlo’s serial number and register it online so that law enforcement will have more chances of recovering it if stolen.
  • Keep your Arlo app up-to-date with the latest firmware updates, as these often include security enhancements that will help protect against unauthorized access.
  • Ensure you have registered your device with Arlo so that if it gets stolen, you can report its loss immediately and prevent any unauthorized usage of your account or data stored on the device itself.

Does Arlo have theft protection?

Yes, the good news is that Arlo does offer some level of theft protection for their cameras. For instance, each camera comes with a unique serial number that can be used to track it if stolen.

Additionally, Arlo offers cloud-based storage, which means that even if someone steals your camera, you still have access to any footage recorded prior to the theft.

What happens if my Arlo camera is stolen?

If your Arlo camera is stolen, it can be a frustrating and stressful experience. You may feel violated that someone has taken something from you that was meant to keep you safe.

The Arlo Theft Replacement Program (ATR) is a security program that offers peace of mind to Arlo camera owners in case of theft or damage.

Arlo theft replacement program if it is stolen

With ATR, customers can rest easy knowing that they will receive a replacement Arlo camera in case of theft or damage caused by a criminal act. This program is a reliable and cost-effective solution to protect your home and valuables.

Are Arlo cameras easy to steal?

Yes, Arlo cameras are a popular target for theft due to their compact size and wireless design.

One of the reasons why Arlo cameras are easy to steal is that they can be easily removed from their mounting brackets without any tools or special skills. This makes them an attractive target for thieves who may want to resell or use them for personal surveillance.

Another factor contributing to the ease of stealing Arlo cameras is their portability. Since these devices run on batteries, they can be easily carried away by anyone with malicious intent, making it hard to track down the culprit once a theft has occurred.

While it’s true that Arlo cameras can be easy targets for thieves if left unsecured, taking some simple precautions can go a long way in deterring potential robbers and keeping your property safe.

Can a stolen Arlo camera be used?

Once an Arlo camera has been stolen, many wonder if it can be used by someone else.

The short answer is no; someone else cannot use a stolen Arlo camera. This is because each Arlo camera is tied to its owner’s account and cannot be accessed without their login information.

Even if a thief were to reset the camera or try to set it up as a new device, they would still need access to the original owner’s account for it to function properly.

However, just because a stolen Arlo camera cannot be used doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t take steps to prevent theft in the first place. 

2. Wyze Cameras – Can Wyze Camera be Stolen?

Unfortunately, the answer is yes – just like any other security camera, Wyze cameras can be stolen by burglars or vandals.

However, there are several steps you can take to prevent your Wyze camera from being stolen. 

How to prevent Wyze cameras from being stolen?

Here are some specific methods or tips to help prevent your Wyze camera from being stolen.

  • Invest in a Wyze Camera Housing Case designed specifically for outdoor use and provides extra protection against thefts and weather conditions such as rainwater accumulation on the lens surface.
  • Keep records of serial numbers or purchase receipts so you have proof if anything happens to your Wyze cameras at any point.
Suggested Readings

What happens if someone steals your WYZE camera?

If someone steals your WYZE camera, first and foremost, you should report the theft to the police as soon as possible. The sooner they know the crime, the better chance they have of catching the thief.

If you have a subscription to WYZE’s cloud service, you can access footage from their servers even if your camera is stolen. This means that if any video evidence of the theft or identifying information about the thief was captured on your camera before it was taken, it will still be available for review.

Unfortunately, recording may not be available if you do not subscribe to their cloud service or did not have an SD card installed in your camera at the time of the theft. In this case, recovering your stolen property or any potential evidence would be extremely difficult.

3. Blink Cameras – Can Blink cameras get stolen?

Yes, Blink cameras can be stolen. However, all of their products are designed to deter theft and have features that make it harder for thieves to steal them, such as tamper detection and motion activation alerts.

Additionally, they offer optional mounting accessories like wall mounts or mounting plates so you can secure your camera more effectively.

Are blink cameras easy to steal?

No, Blink cameras are not easy to steal. They come with multiple layers of security and tamper detection, making it difficult for a potential thief to remove them from their mounting location or gain access to the camera’s data.

Additionally, they feature a unique ID code that must be entered in order to pair the camera with its associated app and account.

How to prevent Blink cameras from being stolen?

Following are some ways to prevent blink cameras from being stolen:

  • Register your Blink camera with the manufacturer and keep track of its serial number for identification if it is stolen. 
  • Place the Blink camera in an inaccessible area, such as on a ceiling or high shelf, where it would be harder for thieves to reach without being noticed.
  • Install motion-sensing lights or alarms around the area where you place your Blink camera as a further deterrent to theft attempts.
  • Use security cable locks to secure your Blink cameras’ power source and mountings so that they cannot easily be removed by someone trying to steal them.
  • Consider using two-factor authentication when setting up remote access for your Blink cameras in order to add an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access and potential theft attempts over the internet or through Wi-Fi connections.

4. Can light bulb security cameras be stolen?

Yes, a light bulb security camera can be stolen. It is important to take the necessary precautions to help prevent theft, such as mounting the camera securely and using tamper-proof screws or other locking mechanisms.

Additionally, consider installing motion sensors and/or alarms that will alert you when someone attempts to access your security system.

Suggested Readings

Frequently Asked Questions FAQs

How To Protect Security Camera From Vandalism?

Following are some ways to protect security cameras from vandalism.
1. Place your security camera in a secure and hidden location, such as behind shrubs or up high on the wall, so it is difficult to access or destroy.
2. Install vandal-resistant cameras with sturdy housings and cages to protect them from physical damage.
3. Use tamper detection alarms that are triggered when someone attempts to move or disable the camera.
4. Utilize 24/7 monitoring services that can alert you if any suspicious activity is detected around your security cameras or other property on your premises.

How to protect CCTV cameras from theft?

You can protect CCTV cameras from theft by installing the CCTV cameras in locations with limited access points, such as high walls or fences. Make sure that the cameras are securely fastened to a solid surface, such as brickwork or concrete.

Securely lock any cables leading from the camera to other components like power supplies and monitors so they cannot be cut or tampered with easily.

Use tamper-proof screws when mounting your cameras; these have special designs that make it difficult to remove them without using specialized tools designed specifically for this purpose.

Cover all exposed wiring with protective material like conduit tubing, which prevents thieves from accessing them quickly and cutting wires on-site during a theft attempt.

Consider investing in motion sensors that will detect movement around your CCTV cameras and trigger an alarm if someone is tampering with them (or simply coming too close).

Do thieves steal cameras?

Yes, thieves do steal cameras. Cameras are expensive electronic items that can be sold for a profit, which makes them an attractive target for thieves.

Additionally, cameras are small and easily portable, making them easy to steal and difficult to track down. Therefore it is important for camera owners to take measures such as locking up their equipment or using security devices in order to protect their property from theft.

How Do I Find My Stolen Security Camera?

Unfortunately, it may be difficult to find a stolen security camera. However, there are some steps you can take to try and locate it: 
1. Check with police in your area – if the camera was stolen recently, law enforcement may have already located it or might have leads on who took it. 
2. Contact security companies in your area – they might know of any recent thefts that could help track down your camera. 
3. Monitor online marketplaces like eBay and Craigslist for listings of similar cameras – while this isn’t a guarantee that yours is listed, you might get lucky! 
4. Try using GPS-tracking technology, if available, with the camera’s model – this would require access to the original account associated with the device as well as special software or programs to enable tracking capabilities within the right range (if available).

Do security cameras attract thieves?

No, security cameras are an effective deterrent to theft. Security cameras make potential thieves aware that their activities may be monitored and recorded. This can often discourage criminal activity from occurring in the first place or lead to the identification of any perpetrators.

Furthermore, even if a thief does decide to take the risk and steal something, having video footage makes it easier for authorities to identify them and bring them to justice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, security cameras can be stolen, but some measures can be taken to prevent theft and ensure the safety of your property. Proper installation, regular maintenance, and strategic placement can all help deter potential thieves.

Invest in high-quality cameras with advanced features like motion detection and remote access to enhance your security system.

Don’t wait until it’s too late; take action now to protect your property and loved ones. Install security cameras today and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re always one step ahead of potential intruders.

Additional Readings

Is It Illegal To Tamper With Security Cameras?

Do You Need A License To Install Security Cameras?

Answering the question - how do you clean security cameras

Leave a Comment