Learn how to make Ring Doorbell not able to be stolen with practical, step-by-step solutions including anti-theft mounts, security screws, and smart placement. Protect your investment and keep your home safe with these expert-backed strategies.
Key Takeaways
- Use an anti-theft mount: A specialized bracket prevents quick removal and deters thieves from stealing your Ring Doorbell.
- Install security screws: Tamper-resistant screws require special tools, making it harder for thieves to unscrew and remove the device.
- Choose the right location: Mount your Ring Doorbell high and out of easy reach, reducing the chance of grab-and-go theft.
- Add a Ring Chime or indoor alarm: An audible alert can scare off intruders and notify you immediately if someone tampers with the doorbell.
- Enable motion alerts and live view: Real-time notifications let you respond quickly if someone approaches your doorbell.
- Use a Ring Protect Plan: Cloud storage ensures you keep video evidence even if the device is stolen.
- Consider a secondary security camera: A nearby camera can capture footage of anyone attempting to steal your Ring Doorbell.
How to Make Ring Doorbell Not Able to Be Stolen: A Complete Guide
So you’ve installed your Ring Doorbell—great choice! It’s a smart, convenient way to monitor your front door, see who’s visiting, and even talk to delivery drivers from your phone. But here’s the thing: because it’s visible, valuable, and mounted right on your wall, it can also be a target for thieves. Yes, even doorbells get stolen. And when they do, you lose not just the device, but potentially important video footage too.
The good news? There are several effective, affordable, and easy-to-implement ways to make your Ring Doorbell not able to be stolen. In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical steps—from hardware upgrades to smart settings—so you can protect your investment and keep your home secure. Whether you have a Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Doorbell 2, Ring Doorbell 3, Ring Doorbell Pro, or Ring Doorbell Elite, these tips apply to all models.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to deter theft, respond quickly if someone tries to tamper with your doorbell, and ensure your smart security system stays where it belongs—on your wall.
Why Ring Doorbells Get Stolen (And How to Stop It)
Before we dive into solutions, let’s understand why Ring Doorbells are attractive to thieves. First, they’re recognizable. The Ring brand is popular, and thieves know these devices can be resold online. Second, they’re easy to remove—especially if installed with standard screws. Third, they’re often placed at eye level or within arm’s reach, making them quick targets for grab-and-go theft.
Visual guide about How to Make Ring Doorbell Not Able to Be Stolen
Image source: justsmarter.net
But here’s the truth: most thefts happen because the doorbell wasn’t secured properly. With a few smart upgrades, you can make your Ring Doorbell a much harder target. The goal isn’t to make it impossible to steal (nothing is 100% theft-proof), but to make it so difficult and time-consuming that a thief moves on to an easier target.
Step 1: Use an Anti-Theft Mount or Bracket
One of the most effective ways to prevent theft is to install your Ring Doorbell using an anti-theft mount. These are specially designed brackets that lock the doorbell in place, preventing it from being pried off or unscrewed quickly.
What Is an Anti-Theft Mount?
An anti-theft mount is a metal or reinforced plastic bracket that attaches to your wall and holds your Ring Doorbell securely. Unlike the standard mounting plate that comes with your device, anti-theft mounts often require tools to remove and may include locking mechanisms.
Recommended Anti-Theft Mounts
- Ring Anti-Theft Mount: Designed specifically for Ring Doorbells, this official accessory uses a locking screw system. You’ll need a special tool (included) to remove the doorbell, which thieves won’t have.
- Zeadio Anti-Theft Mount: A third-party option compatible with most Ring models. It features a sturdy metal design and requires a hex key for removal.
- Eken Anti-Theft Bracket: Another popular choice with a sleek design and tamper-resistant screws.
How to Install an Anti-Theft Mount
- Turn off power to your doorbell at the breaker (for wired models).
- Remove your existing Ring Doorbell from the wall.
- Attach the anti-theft mount to the wall using the provided screws and anchors.
- Secure your Ring Doorbell to the mount using the locking mechanism.
- Test the fit—make sure it’s snug and doesn’t wobble.
Pro Tip: Even if you use an anti-theft mount, avoid placing your doorbell in a spot that’s easily accessible from the ground. Mount it at least 7–8 feet high if possible.
Step 2: Install Tamper-Resistant Security Screws
Standard screws are a thief’s best friend. They can be removed in seconds with a regular screwdriver. Security screws, on the other hand, require special tools—like a Torx or hex key—that most thieves won’t carry.
Types of Security Screws
- Torx Security Screws (with pin): These have a small pin in the center, preventing standard screwdrivers from fitting.
- Hex Socket Screws: Require an Allen wrench or hex key to tighten or loosen.
- One-Way Screws: Can only be tightened, not removed, with a special tool.
How to Replace Standard Screws
- Remove your Ring Doorbell from the wall.
- Unscrew the existing mounting screws.
- Replace them with security screws of the same size and length.
- Use the correct tool (usually included with the screws) to tighten them securely.
- Reattach your doorbell.
Where to Buy: You can find security screw kits at hardware stores like Home Depot or online at Amazon. Look for sets labeled “tamper-resistant” or “anti-theft.”
Bonus Tip: Use security screws not just on the mounting plate, but also on any covers or access panels on your Ring Doorbell (like the battery compartment on battery-powered models).
Step 3: Choose the Right Mounting Location
Where you install your Ring Doorbell matters—a lot. A poorly placed doorbell is an easy target. Here’s how to pick a spot that deters theft.
Mount High and Out of Reach
Thieves want quick access. If your doorbell is mounted at 6 feet or higher, it’s harder to grab without a ladder or stool. Aim for 7–8 feet if your doorframe allows it. This also improves the camera’s field of view.
Avoid Obvious or Hidden Spots
Don’t mount your doorbell in a dark corner or behind a bush—thieves love hidden spots. At the same time, avoid placing it directly under a bright porch light that creates glare. Find a balance: visible enough to be seen, but not so obvious that it invites tampering.
Use a Doorbell Extender or Angle Mount
If your doorframe is narrow or your door swings too close to the wall, consider using an extender or angle mount. These accessories let you position the doorbell slightly away from the wall, making it harder to pry off.
Example: The Ring Corner Kit allows you to mount your doorbell at a 30- or 45-degree angle, improving visibility and making it tougher to remove.
Step 4: Add a Ring Chime or Indoor Alarm
One of the simplest ways to scare off a thief is sound. If someone tries to tamper with your doorbell, an audible alert can draw attention and send them running.
How It Works
When motion is detected or the doorbell is pressed, the Ring Chime (a plug-in indoor alarm) plays a loud tone inside your home. You can customize the sound and volume. Some models even allow you to set different chimes for different events.
Why It Helps Prevent Theft
If a thief hears a loud noise coming from inside the house, they’re more likely to flee. Even if you’re not home, the sound might alert a neighbor or scare off the intruder before they can steal the device.
Setup Tips
- Place the Ring Chime in a central location, like a living room or hallway.
- Set the volume to high during nighttime or when you’re away.
- Pair it with your Ring app so you get notifications on your phone too.
Alternative: If you don’t want to buy a Chime, you can use a smart speaker like an Amazon Echo. Enable the “Announcements” feature so your Ring alerts play through your Echo device.
Step 5: Enable Motion Alerts and Live View
Your Ring Doorbell is more than a camera—it’s a real-time security system. Use its smart features to stay alert and respond quickly.
Turn On Motion Alerts
In the Ring app, go to your device settings and enable motion alerts. You can customize the sensitivity and set motion zones so you’re only notified when someone approaches the doorbell—not every time a car drives by.
Use Live View
If you get a motion alert, open the Ring app and tap “Live View” to see what’s happening in real time. If you spot someone tampering with your doorbell, you can speak through the two-way audio to scare them off.
Set Up Smart Alerts
Use the “People Only” mode to reduce false alarms. This feature uses AI to detect human movement, so you’re not alerted every time a squirrel runs past.
Pro Tip: Share access with a trusted neighbor. If you’re away and get an alert, they can check the live feed and call the police if needed.
Step 6: Use a Ring Protect Plan
Even if your Ring Doorbell is stolen, you can still access important footage—if you have a Ring Protect Plan.
What Is Ring Protect?
Ring Protect is a subscription service that stores your video recordings in the cloud. With it, you can review past events, save clips, and share them with authorities.
Why It Matters for Theft Prevention
If your doorbell is stolen, the thief might destroy it or wipe the data. But with Ring Protect, your videos are safely stored online. You can provide police with evidence, like the thief’s face or vehicle, increasing the chances of recovery.
Plans and Pricing
- Ring Protect Basic: $3.99/month per device. Includes 180 days of video history.
- Ring Protect Plus: $10/month for unlimited devices. Includes extended video history and 10% off Ring devices.
Tip: Even if you don’t plan to keep the plan long-term, consider subscribing for the first few months after installation. This ensures you have backup footage during the most vulnerable period.
Step 7: Add a Secondary Security Camera
Sometimes, the best defense is a good offense. Install a second camera nearby to monitor your Ring Doorbell.
Why It Works
A thief might disable your Ring Doorbell, but if there’s another camera recording from a different angle, you’ll still have evidence. Plus, the presence of multiple cameras acts as a strong deterrent.
Recommended Cameras
- Ring Stick Up Cam: Wireless, weather-resistant, and integrates with your Ring app.
- Ring Floodlight Cam: Combines a camera with bright lights and a siren—perfect for deterring nighttime theft.
- Arlo or Blink Cameras: Affordable, battery-powered options that work well as secondary devices.
Placement Tips
- Mount the secondary camera high on a wall or under an eave, pointing toward the front door.
- Angle it so it captures the side profile of anyone approaching the Ring Doorbell.
- Ensure it has a clear view and isn’t blocked by plants or decorations.
Step 8: Use a Doorbell Cage or Protective Cover
For extra protection, consider a doorbell cage or protective cover. These metal or polycarbonate shields surround your Ring Doorbell, making it harder to access or damage.
Benefits of a Cage
- Prevents prying or twisting.
- Protects against weather and vandalism.
- Still allows camera and microphone to function.
Popular Options
- Ring Doorbell Cage: Official accessory designed for Ring models. Easy to install and remove for maintenance.
- Generic Metal Covers: Available on Amazon, often cheaper but may require drilling.
Note: Make sure the cage doesn’t block the camera lens, microphone, or motion sensor. Test the live view after installation.
Step 9: Register Your Device and Keep Records
If your Ring Doorbell is stolen, having documentation can help with insurance claims or police reports.
What to Do
- Register your device on the Ring website.
- Keep the receipt and packaging.
- Take a photo of the serial number (usually on the back or in the app).
- Add it to your home inventory for insurance purposes.
Pro Tip: If your doorbell is stolen, report it to Ring support. They may be able to help track the device or provide a discount on a replacement.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: Anti-theft mount blocks the camera view
Solution: Adjust the angle of the mount or use a corner kit to reposition the doorbell. Test the live view to ensure full coverage.
Problem: Security screws are too tight or hard to remove
Solution: Use the correct tool and apply steady pressure. If needed, use a screwdriver with a comfortable grip or an electric driver on low torque.
Problem: Motion alerts are too frequent
Solution: Adjust motion zones in the app. Exclude areas like driveways or sidewalks, and enable “People Only” mode.
Problem: Ring Chime doesn’t sync with the doorbell
Solution: Make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. Restart the Chime and re-pair it in the Ring app.
Final Thoughts: Stay One Step Ahead
Making your Ring Doorbell theft-proof doesn’t require a fortress—just smart planning and a few key upgrades. By using an anti-theft mount, security screws, and strategic placement, you significantly reduce the risk of theft. Add in motion alerts, a Ring Protect Plan, and a secondary camera, and you’ve built a robust defense system.
Remember, the goal isn’t to make your doorbell impossible to steal, but to make it not worth the effort. Most thieves look for quick, easy targets. When they see a well-secured Ring Doorbell, they’ll likely move on.
Take action today. Pick one or two steps from this guide and implement them. Your peace of mind—and your investment—are worth it.