End-to-end encryption, or E2EE, is becoming more widely supported by home security company Ring, which is also releasing a new data transfer capability. Although it's a nice security upgrade, it also makes certain helpful Ring features inactive.
E2EE was formerly restricted to wired gadgets like the Floodlight Cam and Ring Video Doorbell Pro. Currently, Ring's wireless cameras and doorbells are receiving support. It's unclear, though, whether everyone in the lineup will receive it. There is no mention of whether or not E2EE will be supported by all wireless devices in the announcement, despite reports(opens in new tab) to the contrary. We contacted the business to see if it could clarify this misunderstanding. If we hear back, we'll update this story.
Deactivated Device State refers to the new data transfer tool. It enables users to upload old Ring device recordings to their accounts. You can avoid having to manually download each video one at a time this way. To use this tool, users must continue to be Ring subscribers, though. Otherwise, before the corporation deletes the films, they must download everything to their own computer.
Ring's website has instructions on how to save recordings and turn off devices (opens in new tab). To keep events, it will be necessary to update the Ring mobile app and access the device's personal settings.
Encryption from end to end
In any case, we advise updating the mobile app if you do have a wireless Ring camera or doorbell to determine if the E2EE is accessible. End-to-end encryption setup instructions are provided by the company on its website(opens in new tab). You'll need to update the app and access the Control Center, just like with Deactivated Device State. The next step is to activate E2EE, make a passphrase, and then add any devices you like.
Enabling E2EE is worthwhile because it, quite plainly, enhances Ring Device security. Ring cameras upload videos to the company's cloud storage, which turns out to not be the most secure. The business has a history of security issues, including the exposure of 1,500 passwords on the dark web and the potential for providing hackers access to residential Wi-Fi.
The data in your recordings is secure and unreadable thanks to end-to-end encryption. Your encrypted films cannot be viewed by anyone, including the government, hackers, Ring, Amazon, or hackers. They will only receive a disorganised mix of info. Recorded videos can only be viewed by the Ring user and any linked devices.
But having this level of security comes with a price. End-to-end encryption actually disables a number of capabilities on Ring devices, including, to mention a few, Bird's Eye View, Virtual Security Guard, Event Timeline, and Alexa Greetings. On the corporate website, you may find a complete list of functions that have been disabled (opens in new tab). Users will ultimately need to decide for themselves whether the convenience loss outweighs the improved security.
Given Ring's past, choosing security would be preferable.
Unfinished business
Even though the new data transfer capability and the increased E2EE support are fantastic additions, Ring still needs work. The Ring Android app has a vulnerability that, according to cybersecurity research firm Checkmarx, "threat actors could steal identity data including geolocation and camera recordings." In addition, it may be possible to upload malware to an Android phone through this vulnerability and steal even more sensitive information, such as addresses.
Furthermore, the fact that the Ring Android app has received over 10 million downloads is alarming. Given that the majority of RIng's products now support end-to-end encryption, it might be time for the business to plug security gaps and avoid leaks from happening.
Check out TechRadar's ranking of the top home security systems for 2022 if you're looking to improve your home security.
