Security experts warn of a growing trend where thieves use inexpensive 'deauther' devices to disable Wi-Fi-connected video doorbells like those from Amazon's Ring. These watch-like gadgets, available online for around £22, can disconnect smart home cameras from a network with the press of a button, preventing them from recording crimes.
Victims report mysterious gaps in their doorbell footage following package thefts, with the cameras failing to capture incidents that occur right in front of them. The devices work by sending a deauthentication signal that severs the connection between the doorbell and the home Wi-Fi. While legal to sell, using them to disrupt another person's network without permission is not.
Cybersecurity professionals note a significant increase in such incidents, estimating useful doorbell footage is now available in only about half of reported thefts, down from 70% a year ago. Criminals are reportedly discussing and acquiring these tools on messaging platforms.
Protection methods include upgrading to a WPA3 router, which can ignore deauth requests, or using ethernet-connected cameras that don't rely on Wi-Fi. However, many existing doorbells are not compatible with the latest security standards. Manufacturers are urged to build more resilient devices, while police advise users to employ strong passwords and two-factor authentication.