In a bold move to champion personal privacy, Amazon Ring announced major policy changes. Starting in February 2024, Ring will no longer accept requests for home security footage from police through his Neighbors app. This decision marks a pivotal shift in the balance between security and privacy.
Ring, a well-known company in the home security space, has come under fire for its past actions in sharing security videos with law enforcement without users’ consent. The company’s latest software updates are detailed in a recent article. blog post Eric Kuhn, head of the Neighbors platform, highlighted the removal of the “Request for Assistance” tool. The tool previously allowed law enforcement to request footage of users directly through the app.
Neighbors by Ring app (Ring) (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
Police and fire departments can still use the Neighbors app to share safety tips and updates, but they can no longer directly request or receive video content. According to Ring, this change more closely aligns with the company’s vision of empowering customers and fostering community connections.
View from the Ring doorbell camera (Ring) (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
In extreme cases like this, police may have access to
Despite this change, law enforcement has not been completely cut off from accessing Ring footage. Even in extreme cases, like life-threatening emergencies (think kidnapping or attempted murder), police can request footage directly from companies like Ring. However, such instances are rare and are subject to Ring’s sole discretion. In fact, Ring has responded to such emergency requests only a few times in recent months.
Furthermore, traditional legal avenues remain. Law enforcement agencies may obtain a warrant or subpoena to access video footage, subject to judicial oversight and certain time constraints.
Ring doorphone camera (Ring) (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
Read more: Recommended items to strengthen your home security
What should I do to restrict police use of Ring cameras?
For Ring users, this update requires little action. We recommend always updating your device and apps to receive the latest firmware changes. Ring isn’t just about stealing. We’re also adding new features like ‘Ring Moments’ and ‘Best of Ring’ video collections for sharing lighthearted videos, strengthening the community aspect of the platform.
The important thing here is that privacy is important. Security is paramount, but not at the expense of personal privacy. Ring’s decision reflects a growing awareness and respect for this balance after years of reporting on this little-known secret.
Mother and daughter at the front door with Ring doorbell camera (Ring) (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
Did you know that other Amazon devices, including Echo and Ring products, allow your neighbors to connect to your network without your permission unless you opt out? Amazon makes this an automatic feature. It is presumptuous to do so, so if you want to increase security, we recommend turning it off. Here’s how:
How to opt out of sidewalks on your Ring Video Doorbell or Ring device
Sidewalk is an Amazon feature that allows Ring devices to share a small portion of their internet bandwidth with nearby devices. If you’re new to this, you can opt out of Sidewalk by following these simple steps.
- launch Incoming call app
- Tap. 3 line menu in the upper left
- go to “Control Center” (towards the bottom of the navigation)
- click “Amazon Sidewalk”
- Sidewalk slider button left It says “off”
More information: How to detect a hacker spying on your doorbell camera
Non-cloud connected cameras offer higher privacy
If you are concerned about privacy, please consider Devices that offer local storage options. Unlike footage stored in the cloud, local storage allows for more control, making it harder for companies to share video without consent, but still subject to legal claims.
Security camera with local storage option (flashing) (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
Read more: Are doorbell cameras susceptible to jamming and interference?
Cart important points
Ring’s policy updates are an important step toward protecting individual privacy. This is a move to encourage users to stay informed and consider their options in the evolving landscape of home security and privacy rights. Now’s a good time to review your video doorbell’s privacy settings to make sure they’re appropriate. Check the names of people who have access and make sure your camera is only shared with people you know and trust.
What do you think about Ring’s decision to stop facilitating police requests for home security footage? Do you agree or disagree? Email us. Cyberguy.com/Contact.
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