Ring Camera Hack Controversy: Amazon's Denial vs. User Concerns

TL;DR

• Ring camera users recently reported unauthorized logins, raising concerns about potential hacks.
• Amazon denies any breach, attributing the issue to a display bug, but users remain skeptical.
• This article delves into the controversy, Amazon’s response, and provides steps for users to safeguard their Ring cameras.

Main Content

In recent weeks, numerous Amazon Ring users across platforms like TikTok, Reddit, and X have voiced concerns about potential hacks of their Ring cameras starting May 28. Users have shared screenshots showing multiple unauthorized device logins, making these claims difficult to dismiss¹.

Forbes investigated the issue, with even the journalist discovering several unauthorized logins on their own device. However, on July 18, Ring released a statement attributing the issue to a minor bug causing incorrect login date displays².

Ring’s Official Statement

Ring acknowledged a bug that incorrectly displayed prior login dates as May 28, 2025. The company’s status page currently displays the following message:

“We are aware of an issue where information is displaying inaccurately in Control Center. This is the result of a backend update, and we’re working to resolve this. We have no reason to believe this is the result of unauthorized access to customer accounts.”

As of July 21, one user reported being unable to log in through the website but could access their account via the app, with no May 28 logins visible.

User Skepticism and Evidence

Despite Ring’s explanation, users remain skeptical. Ring later clarified that a backend update caused the inaccurate display of login dates and device names. However, many users have shared screenshots showing device names, contradicting Ring’s claim of missing device names³.

The Ring software release notes show no updates around May 28, suggesting the issue stems from a backend update. Additionally, on July 17, Ring founder and CEO Jamie Siminoff announced significant changes, including reinstating Ring’s original mission statement, “Make neighborhoods safer,” hinting at a return to its crime prevention roots⁴.

Potential Connection to Recent Changes

Before Siminoff’s return, Ring had shifted towards a more community-focused brand, distancing itself from its surveillance tool image. Last year, Ring discontinued the “Request for Assistance” feature, which allowed law enforcement to request camera footage. However, in April, Ring partnered with Axon, effectively reintroducing video sharing with law enforcement⁵.

This shift suggests that the recent issues might be related to backend updates required for the new functionality.

Amazon’s Recent Security Warnings

This incident follows Amazon’s recent warning to over 200 million Prime customers about potential attacks on their accounts⁶.

Worried Your Ring Camera Has Been Hacked?

While Ring maintains that no hack occurred, users can take several steps to protect their devices:

• Monitor Updates: Keep an eye on Ring’s official updates regarding this issue.
• Check Authorized Devices: In the Ring app’s Control Center, review and remove any unfamiliar devices.
• Temporarily Disable: If concerned, temporarily disable your Ring doorbell and cameras until more information is available.
• Reset Password: Use a strong, unique password and enable two-step verification.
• Beware of Scams: Be cautious of phishing attempts and verify any messages claiming to be from Ring.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding the potential hack of Ring cameras highlights the ongoing debate between corporate denials and user experiences. As the situation unfolds, users are advised to take proactive measures to safeguard their devices. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in the face of potential cybersecurity threats.

Additional Resources

For further insights, check:

• Malwarebytes Blog
• Forbes Article on Ring Doorbell Hacking Claims
• Ring Software Release Notes

References

1. “Ring Doorbell Hacking Claims Go Viral” Forbes. Forbes. Retrieved 2025-07-21. ↩︎

2. “Ring Status Update” Ring. Ring. Retrieved 2025-07-21. ↩︎

3. “Ring Users Report Suspicious May 28 Logins” TikTok. TikTok. Retrieved 2025-07-21. ↩︎

4. “Ring Founder Jamie Siminoff Announces Changes” Business Insider. Business Insider. Retrieved 2025-07-21. ↩︎

5. “Ring Partners with Axon” Ring. Ring. Retrieved 2025-07-21. ↩︎

6. “Amazon Warns Prime Customers” Malwarebytes. Malwarebytes. Retrieved 2025-07-21. ↩︎