Reolink

Reolink Camera Hacked? 5 Steps to Secure Your Device Now

Your Reolink camera may have been hacked — here's how to secure it. Follow brand-specific steps to check logs, reset devices, and update firmware. Trusted by UK homeowners.

Is this your issue?

Camera shows unexpected recordings or motion alerts
Unfamiliar users appear in the Reolink App
Settings have been altered without user input
Camera disconnects frequently or shows poor signal strength
Motion detection zones are incorrect or unresponsive
Camera is unresponsive to commands in the app

Sound familiar? The guide below will help you fix it.

Your Reolink Camera Shows Signs of Being Hacked — Here’s What to Do

If you suspect your Reolink camera has been compromised, act quickly to secure your device and protect your privacy. Signs of a hacked camera include unexpected recordings, unauthorized users appearing in the app, or settings being altered without your input. The solution requires a combination of immediate steps, brand-specific troubleshooting, and long-term prevention. This guide will walk you through the process using Reolink-specific tools, models, and app features to restore your camera’s security.

Quick Fixes to Try First

Before diving into complex troubleshooting, try these quick checks that can resolve the issue in under 30 seconds:

Check the LED status: Look for unusual blinking patterns or constant red lights, which may indicate a firmware issue or unauthorized access.
Verify app login: Ensure you’re logged into the correct account and that no unfamiliar devices are paired.
Restart the Reolink App: Force-close the app and reopen it to refresh the connection.
Check battery level: For battery-powered models like the Argus Track, ensure the battery is above 20% to avoid connectivity lapses.
Inspect the Wi-Fi settings: Confirm the camera is connected to the correct network and that 2.4GHz mode is enabled for better signal stability.

These steps address the most common causes of a hacked camera and can often resolve the issue without advanced troubleshooting.

Step-by-Step: Secure Your Reolink Camera

Check Your Reolink Camera’s Wi-Fi Band Settings

Reolink cameras support both 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi bands, but 5GHz networks are more prone to interference and may be less secure. To switch to 2.4GHz mode:

Open the Reolink App and navigate to Device Settings → Wi-Fi Settings.
Select your network and choose 2.4GHz mode if available.
Save the changes and restart the camera to apply the update.

This step ensures your camera uses a more stable and secure network, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

Update Your Reolink Camera’s Firmware

Outdated firmware can leave your camera vulnerable to exploits. To check for updates:

Open the Reolink App and go to Device Info → Firmware Update Check.
If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
After the update completes, restart the camera and verify the changes.

Firmware updates often include critical security patches, so this step is essential for protecting your device.

Review and Remove Unauthorized Users

If unauthorized users are present in your Reolink account, they could be accessing your camera remotely. To check:

Open the Reolink App and go to Device Health → Shared Users.
Review the list of users and remove any unfamiliar accounts.
Ensure 2-factor authentication is enabled in Account Settings to prevent future unauthorized access.

This step helps eliminate immediate threats and strengthens your account’s security.

Factory Reset Your Reolink Camera

If the camera is unresponsive or shows persistent signs of being hacked, a factory reset may be necessary. The process varies by model:

For Argus Track (battery-powered): Press and hold the Reset button for more than 5 seconds until the LED flashes.
For Reolink Video Doorbell (PoE): Use a paperclip to press the reset button until you hear a short music tone.
For RLC-1212A (PoE): Hold the Reset button for 10 seconds until the LED turns red.

After resetting, re-pair the camera in the Reolink App and change your account password immediately. This ensures the camera is restored to a secure state.

Diagnose Network and Connectivity Issues

A compromised camera may be connected to a network with weak security. To diagnose:

Open the Reolink App and go to Network Status → Signal Strength.
Check the RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) value. A reading below -70dBm indicates poor connectivity, which may increase the risk of hacking.
If signal strength is weak, move the camera closer to the router or switch to 2.4GHz mode for better coverage.

For PoE models, ensure the Ethernet cable is securely connected and the PoE switch is functioning properly.

Advanced Troubleshooting: Persistent Issues

Access Diagnostic Logs

Reolink cameras store diagnostic logs that can help identify the cause of a hack. To access them:

Open the Reolink App and go to Device Info → Diagnostic Logs.
Review the logs for unusual activity, such as unexpected firmware changes or unauthorized access attempts.
If logs are unavailable or incomplete, contact Reolink support for further assistance.

These logs provide valuable insights into the camera’s behavior and can help pinpoint the source of the issue.

Contact Reolink Support

If basic troubleshooting fails, contact Reolink support at https://support.reolink.com/hc/en-us/. Provide the following details:

Camera model and firmware version
Steps you’ve taken so far
Any error messages or unusual activity observed

Reolink support can guide you through advanced diagnostics or arrange a replacement if hardware failure is suspected.

Understanding the Root Cause

A hacked Reolink camera is often the result of outdated firmware, weak Wi-Fi security, or unauthorized access to your account. UK-specific challenges, such as interference from construction materials or poor broadband coverage, can exacerbate these issues. However, Reolink cameras are designed with robust security features, and following the steps outlined in this guide can significantly reduce the risk of future compromises.

Prevention and Long-Term Care

To keep your Reolink camera secure long-term:

Enable 2-factor authentication in your Reolink account settings.
Regularly update firmware using the Firmware Update Check option in the app.
Review shared users in the Device Health section and remove any unfamiliar accounts.
Switch to 2.4GHz mode for better signal stability and security.
Monitor battery levels for battery-powered models like the Argus Track.

Full disclosure: we built scOS to address exactly this — the frustration of cameras that depend on Wi-Fi to function. scOS uses permanently powered cameras connected via Ethernet, eliminating the risk of signal lapses or firmware vulnerabilities.

When to Replace Your Reolink Camera

Most Reolink cameras last 3–5 years for battery-powered models and 5–8 years for wired models. Signs that replacement is needed include:

Persistent firmware issues despite updates
Unresolvable connectivity problems
Physical damage to the camera or housing

Under the UK’s Consumer Rights Act 2015, you have up to 6 years to claim faulty goods. If your camera is beyond repair, consider upgrading to a newer model with enhanced security features.

Final Tips for Reolink Camera Users

Always use strong, unique passwords for your Reolink account.
Avoid sharing your camera’s Wi-Fi network with untrusted devices.
Regularly back up your camera’s settings and configurations.
For PoE models, ensure the PoE switch is configured correctly and the Ethernet cable is intact.
If you’re unsure about any step, refer to Reolink’s official support resources.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure your Reolink camera remains secure and functional for years to come.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A hacked Reolink camera typically shows signs like unexpected recordings, altered settings, or unauthorized users in the app. First, check the **Device Health** section in the Reolink App for unusual activity. If you spot unknown users, remove them immediately. Next, enable **2.4GHz mode** in the Wi-Fi settings, as 5GHz networks are more vulnerable to interference. Finally, update your camera's firmware via the **Firmware Update Check** option in the app. If issues persist, contact Reolink support at https://support.reolink.com/hc/en-us/. For battery-powered models like the **Argus Track**, ensure the **Battery Level** is above 20% to avoid connectivity lapses. Always re-pair the camera post-reset and change your account password.

To reset a Reolink camera, the process varies by model. For **Argus Track** (battery-powered), press and hold the **Reset button** for more than 5 seconds. For **Reolink Video Doorbell** (PoE), use a paperclip to press the reset button until you hear a short music tone. For **RLC-1211A** (PoE), hold the **Reset button** for 10 seconds. After resetting, re-pair the camera in the Reolink App and change your account password immediately. Always ensure your firmware is up to date post-reset. For PoE models, verify the **Ethernet cable** is securely connected and the **PoE switch** is functioning. If the camera is on a 5GHz network, switch to **2.4GHz mode** for better signal stability and security.

To prevent future hacks, enable **2-factor authentication** in your Reolink account settings and change default passwords. In the app, navigate to **Device Info** → **Account Settings** → **2FA**. Regularly review shared users in the **Device Health** section. For battery-powered models like the **Argus Track**, ensure the **Battery Level** is above 20% to avoid connectivity lapses. If your camera is on a 5GHz network, switch to **2.4GHz mode** in the Wi-Fi settings for better signal stability and security. Additionally, update firmware regularly via the **Firmware Update Check** option in the app. For PoE models, ensure the **Ethernet cable** is properly connected and the **PoE switch** is configured correctly.

If your Reolink camera is displaying incorrect motion zones or showing activity in areas you’ve never set up, check the **Motion Detection** settings in the app. Navigate to **Device Settings** → **Motion Detection** → **Zone Customisation**. Ensure zones are correctly configured and that **Smart Detection** is enabled. If zones appear altered, factory reset the camera and re-pair it. For **Argus Track** models, this involves pressing the **Reset button** for 5 seconds. Always update firmware post-reset. For **RLC-1212A** models, ensure the **PoE switch** is functioning properly and the **Ethernet cable** is securely connected. If the camera is on a 5GHz network, switch to **2.4GHz mode** for better signal stability and security.

If your Reolink camera is not detecting motion despite being set up, first check the **Motion Detection** settings in the app. Navigate to **Device Settings** → **Motion Detection** → **Zone Customisation**. Ensure zones are correctly configured and that **Smart Detection** is enabled. If the camera is on a 5GHz network, switch to **2.4GHz mode** for better signal stability. For **Argus Track** models, ensure the **Battery Level** is above 20% to avoid connectivity lapses. For **RLC-1212A** models, verify the **Ethernet cable** is securely connected and the **PoE switch** is functioning. If issues persist, factory reset the camera and re-pair it in the app.

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