Some actions to take:
"Pick a doorbell that only records locally, or opt out of cloud video storage. Some devices have onboard storage, but a system that connects to an indoor DVR via Ethernet is more secure, as it makes the data harder to get at and bypasses Wi-Fi, which is relatively easy to scramble. That immediately rules out some of the best video doorbells I recommend, but that guide is based on how well they work. Luckily, there are some good local-recording video doorbell options.
Reolink’s doorbell supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), so you could record locally to a device inside. Wired doorbells are also generally more responsive and reliable than their wireless counterparts.
You might also consider doorbells from Eufy, such as the Eufy Video Doorbell E340 ($220), or maybe something from TP-Link’s Tapo range. I’ll be seeking out and reviewing more local storage options in the coming weeks.
Whatever doorbell you choose, check that you are not automatically enrolled in any footage-sharing programs. Sailor suggests combing the fine print on any freemium deal, not because people will be watching your videofeed, but rather because these tech companies will be using your data to train their AI and improve their devices. “They have algorithms that are learning from your behaviors.”
Using the cloud isn’t always a bad thing, Sailor tells me. It can build redundancy and greater security into your system, mitigating the risk of a determined intruder breaking in and stealing physical footage. Just make sure that you opt for cloud storage that is end-to-end encrypted, so only you can access your video.
Video Doorbell Privacy Tips
If you have a smart doorbell or you plan to install one, here are a few tips to preserve your privacy and the privacy of others.
• Where possible, position cameras to only point at your own property. Many doorbells and cameras also include the option to set activity zones in the app, so you can ensure that only movement within your property line will trigger a recording. Some devices go further and enable you to mask off areas or set exclusion zones.
• You may want to turn off audio completely, as it doesn’t add much value for most folks, but it does add significant privacy risk. Doorbells have sensitive microphones capable of capturing audio you didn’t even realize they could pick up. This usually won’t prevent you from having two-way conversations when someone rings the doorbell.
• If you’re worried about how footage may be used, consider setting your data storage capabilities to the minimum or turning them off entirely. Your footage can’t be used in unpredictable ways if it isn’t stored at all or auto-deletes after a few hours.
• Think carefully before you share any video. When you post a video online, you lose control of it completely, and that could have unpredictable ramifications, not just for the subject of the video, but for your own privacy as well.
• It’s best not to accept the default settings on your doorbell. Unpalatable features are often opt-out, requiring you to act to prevent the company from storing or using your data in ways you may prefer it didn’t."