A Consumer Reports (CR) investigation last week found that more than a dozen doorbell cameras sold by Walmart, Amazon and Tem had security flaws that allowed hackers to access them.
In its findings, CR said the defective security cameras were mainly categorized into two brands, Eken and Tuck, both manufactured by China-based Eken Group and operated through a mobile app named Aiwit. He claimed that he had done so. Hackers can access your device and view footage through the app.
According to the Washington Post, the remaining brands affected are:
- Ando.
- Fishbot.
- Geez.
- Luck Wolf.
- Lake blue.
Eken and Tuck products are primarily sold online, and both brands at one point earned the title of Amazon’s “Overall Pick,” according to CBS News.
So what does CR recommend for safe video camera doorbells, also available on Amazon? Here are some options they’ve tested and approved.
1. Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4
price: $119.99.
Aqara doorbell cameras received high scores from CR for:
- data security.
- Response time (how fast the live video feed loads while the alert is being sent).
- Smart features.
- Video quality.
As for smart features, the Amazon product listing says the doorbell is equipped with facial recognition and voice-altering software to “tell you who’s at your door” and can disguise itself to protect your privacy. There is.
Storage options: CR reports that Aqara has a 7-day free cloud storage option, but you can also use a 512GB (or smaller) microSD card to store footage.
- schedule: Get up to 10 days of storage through an Apple iCloud+ membership for $1/month for one camera, $3/month for up to 5 cameras, or $10/month for unlimited cameras.
2. Eufy Video Doorbell (Wired) S330
price: $129.98 (for a limited time only).
Eufy doorbell cameras received high scores from CR for:
- data security.
- reaction time.
- Video quality.
According to the Amazon product listing, it is equipped with two cameras, one facing the visitor and one facing the package, with high dynamic range for a clearer video preview. (HDR).
Storage options: According to CR, the device stores up to 8 gigabytes of internal memory, or about 90 days’ worth of video clips.
- schedule: Get up to 30 days of cloud storage for $3 per month for 1 camera or $10 per month for 10 cameras.
3. Logitech Circle View Doorbell
price: $177.00.
Logitech doorbell cameras received high scores from CR for:
- data security.
- reaction time.
- Video quality.
According to the Amazon listing, it’s only available for iPhone, but uses secure end-to-end encryption software and uses color night vision to illuminate 6 feet of pitch darkness.
Storage options: CR reports that there are no free storage options.
- schedule: Similar to the Aqara doorbell, an Apple iCloud+ membership includes up to 10 days of storage for $1/month for one camera, $3/month for up to 5 cameras, or $10/month for unlimited cameras. Masu.
4. Lorex LNWDB1 1080P WiFi Video Doorbell
price: $94.99.
Lorex doorbell cameras received high scores from CR for:
- data security.
- reaction time.
- Video quality.
The cheapest option on this list, the device features voice control with Google Assistant or Amazon’s Alexa, surveillance zones, geofencing, and, according to the Amazon listing, uses your phone’s location to keep you on the go. send an alert to.
Storage options: CR says it comes with a 16GB microSD card in the package, but you can use up to a 64GB microSD card instead.
- schedule: There are no premium plans or options available.
5. SimpliSafe Doorbell Pro SS3
price: $169.99.
SimpliSafe doorbell cameras received high scores from CR for:
- Data privacy.
- data security.
- Video quality.
Amazon’s listing for this doorbell claims it has “quick police response” and works in rain and snow. It was the highest rated model in the CR test.
Storage options: CR reports that there are no free storage options.
- schedule: 30 days of storage costs $10 per month for up to 5 cameras and $30 per month for up to 10 cameras.
