How secure is Ring Doorbell - can it be hacked?
Ring Doorbell Security: How Safe Is It from Hacking?
Ring Doorbell security has improved significantly since early privacy concerns, but like any connected device, it's not immune to security risks. Understanding current protections and best practices is essential for safe use.
Current Security Measures
Encryption Standards: Ring devices use WPA2 encryption for WiFi communication and TLS encryption for data transmission to Ring servers, meeting current industry standards.
Mandatory Two-Factor Authentication: Ring now requires two-factor authentication for all accounts, significantly improving security over earlier implementations.
Regular Security Updates: Ring maintains a generally good track record of prompt firmware updates to address discovered vulnerabilities.
Historical Security Issues (Resolved)
Past Problems: Early Ring systems had weak password requirements, optional two-factor authentication, and concerning data sharing practices with law enforcement.
Current Improvements: Ring has implemented stronger password requirements, mandatory 2FA, and more transparent privacy controls with user opt-out options.
Common Vulnerability Sources
User Error (Most Common):
- Weak, reused passwords across multiple accounts
- Shared account credentials with family/friends
- Failure to enable all available security features
- Use of unsecured WiFi networks
Network Security: Using unsecured or poorly configured home WiFi networks creates vulnerability beyond Ring's control.
Privacy Controls Available
Data Sharing Management: Users can opt out of law enforcement data sharing and control video sharing settings.
Neighbors App: Participation is optional and can be disabled entirely.
Data Retention: Manage how long recordings are stored and when they're automatically deleted.
Physical Security Considerations
Device Theft: Ring doorbells can be stolen if not properly secured with included security screws and anti-theft mounting features.
Theft Protection: Stolen devices become useless as they're tied to your account and cannot be easily reset by unauthorized users.
Tamper Alerts: Ring devices can notify you if someone attempts to remove or tamper with the device.
Best Security Practices
Strong Account Security:
- Use unique, complex passwords (consider a password manager)
- Enable two-factor authentication
- Regularly review account access and linked devices
- Avoid sharing account credentials
Network Security:
- Secure your home WiFi with WPA3 or WPA2 encryption
- Use guest networks for IoT devices when possible
- Keep router firmware updated
- Consider network monitoring tools
Ongoing Maintenance
Keep Updated: Enable automatic firmware updates through the Ring app to ensure you receive security patches promptly.
Regular Reviews: Periodically review your privacy settings, linked accounts, and sharing preferences.
Monitor Activity: Check your Ring account for unusual activity or unauthorized access.
Risk Assessment
For most homeowners, Ring Doorbells provide reasonable security when properly configured with strong passwords and two-factor authentication enabled. The bigger security risks typically come from user practices rather than device vulnerabilities.
However, if you have extremely high security requirements or handle sensitive information, consider professional-grade security systems with additional layers of protection and local storage options.
📚More About Ring Video Doorbell (2020) - Satin Nickel
Where to Buy
Considering the Ring Video Doorbell (2020) - Satin Nickel?
Here's our "TLDR" Review
Download ShopSavvy App
Compare prices for anything in real-time, set price alerts, watch for deals by keyword, and much more
Install ShopSavvy Browser Extension
Compare and track prices automatically while you shop online at thousands of websites.
More Answers
If you're still curious about the Ring Video Doorbell (2020) - Satin Nickel, here are some other answers you might find interesting:
How hard is it to install the Ring doorbell myself, or do I need to hire an electrician?
The short answer: Ring made this doorbell specifically so you could install it yourself, and most people find it surprisingly easy.
I get why you'd wonder about this - nobody wants to start a home improvement project and get stuck halfway through. But Ring really thought through the installation process, and it shows.
If You're Going Battery-Only (The Easy Path)
This is honestly about as simple as hanging a picture frame. You:
- Hold the bracket up to your wall
- Mark two screw holes
- Drill and screw in the bracket
- Snap the Ring doorbell onto the bracket
- Connect it to your WiFi through the app
That's it. No electrical work, no wire stripping, no wondering if you're about to electrocute yourself. Most people finish in under 20 minutes.
If You're Hardwiring (Still Pretty Easy)
Even connecting to your existing doorbell wiring isn't scary. Ring only has two wires, and they're color-coded. Your old doorbell probably had two wires too. You just disconnect the old ones and connect the new ones.
The trickiest part is remembering to turn off the power first, but that's just flipping a breaker. Ring even throws in a voltage tester so you can double-check that the power's actually off.
When You Might Want Help
Look, some people just don't like messing with anything electrical, and that's totally fine. If the idea of touching wires makes you nervous, hire someone. It'll cost maybe -100 for an electrician to do it, and you'll have peace of mind.
You'd also want professional help if you need to run completely new wiring (like if your house has never had a doorbell).
The Reality Check
I've seen plenty of people who were convinced they'd need professional installation, but they tried it themselves and were done in 30 minutes. Ring's instructions are really clear, and there are tons of YouTube videos if you get stuck.
The tools you need are basic - just a drill, really. Ring includes the drill bit, screws, and even wall anchors for different surface types.
Bottom line: if you can hang shelves or install a TV mount, you can definitely handle a Ring doorbell installation.
Do I need existing doorbell wiring to install the Ring doorbell, or can I use it with just the battery?
Here's the great news: the Ring Video Doorbell (2020 release) works exactly how you need it to work, whether you have existing doorbell wiring or not.
No Wiring? No Problem!
If your home doesn't have doorbell wiring (maybe you're in an apartment or a newer house that skipped the traditional doorbell), you're all set. The Ring Video Doorbell comes with a built-in battery that lasts 6-12 months. Just mount it, connect to WiFi, and you're done.
This battery approach is actually pretty clever. You can:
- Install it anywhere that makes sense (not just where old wiring exists)
- Move it later if needed
- Set it up in about 20 minutes
- Never worry about finding an electrician
Got Existing Wiring? Even Better!
If you do have doorbell wiring, connecting to it gives you some nice perks. Your existing doorbell chime keeps working (so family members who don't have the app still hear visitors), and you never have to charge the battery.
The cool part is that Ring keeps the battery active even when hardwired. So if your power goes out, the doorbell keeps working. It's like having a backup generator for your front door.
Start Simple, Upgrade If You Want
Here's what I'd recommend: start with just the battery. Get it installed, see how you like the location, make sure everything works well. If you decide later that you want the convenience of hardwired power, you can always connect it to your existing wiring without buying anything new.
What About Older Homes?
Most houses built in the last 50 years have doorbell wiring that works fine with Ring. The device needs 8-24 volts, and pretty much every doorbell transformer provides that. Ring even includes a little voltage tester so you can check before connecting anything.
If your home is really old or the wiring is sketchy, just stick with battery power. You're not missing out on core functionality - the doorbell does everything it's supposed to do either way.
Do I need a Ring subscription for basic features?
Here's the reality about Ring doorbells that marketing doesn't emphasize: while you can use them without a subscription, you're missing most features that justify the purchase.
What Works Without Subscription
Without paying for Ring Protect, your doorbell functions as an expensive intercom system:
- Live video viewing when you open the app
- Motion notifications when movement is detected
- Two-way audio communication with visitors
- Basic settings adjustment for motion sensitivity
That's the complete free functionality. No recordings, no video history, no evidence collection.
Essential Features Requiring Subscription
All the security features you likely bought the doorbell for require monthly fees:
- Video recordings: No ability to capture or review footage
- Evidence collection: Package theft or suspicious activity generates alerts but no usable footage
- Smart detection: Cannot distinguish between people, packages, and animals
- Video sharing: No way to send clips to neighbors or authorities
- 180-day storage: No access to historical events
True Cost Analysis
Ring's actual ownership cost structure:
- Ring Video Doorbell 3:
- Basic Ring Protect: /year (essential for functionality)
- First-year total: Approximately
- Ongoing annual cost: for single device coverage
The Ring Protect Plus plan at /year covers unlimited devices and includes professional monitoring features.
Why Users Subscribe Within Days
Most Ring owners follow this pattern:
- Install doorbell and receive motion notifications
- Realize they cannot review what triggered alerts
- Subscribe within 1-2 weeks for actual security functionality
Without recordings, security alerts become frustratingly pointless - you know something happened but have no evidence or details.
Limited Use Cases for Free Operation
The live-only experience works for very specific scenarios:
- Remote door answering when home
- Real-time delivery monitoring during expected packages
- Basic deterrent effect from visible camera presence
However, 90% of users purchasing Ring doorbells for security purposes find free functionality inadequate.
Business Model Reality
Ring's strategy prioritizes recurring subscription revenue over hardware sales. The doorbell serves as an entry point to monthly billing rather than a complete one-time purchase.
Before buying, honestly evaluate whether you're comfortable with -100 annual ongoing costs for full functionality. If subscription fees concern you, consider alternatives with local storage capabilities or one-time payment models.
Ring doorbells provide excellent security features when fully subscribed, but don't expect complete functionality from the initial hardware investment alone.
🔥 Trending Deals
Loading trending deals...
Footer 1
Subscribe for Updates
Get the latest news, and updates on ShopSavvy. You'll be glad you did!