Once a niche gadget for the tech-obsessed, video doorbells like Ring, Google Nest, and Eufy have now become a common sight on streets across the UK. As smart home security grows in popularity, many homeowners are asking: do these devices truly protect our homes, or are we buying into a false sense of security?
Let’s unpack the reality behind video doorbells: the good, the bad, and what it all means for your peace of mind. And crucially, your insurance!
Why are video doorbells so popular?
Video doorbells are now one of the most common smart home devices in the UK. Convenience is a huge factor: they let you see who’s at your door when you’re at work, on holiday, or just too comfy on the sofa. During the pandemic, when doorstep deliveries skyrocketed, interest surged even further.
But beyond convenience, many people install them hoping to deter crime. The logic seems sound. After all, a visible camera feels like a modern-day moat around your castle.
Do they actually prevent crime?
There is some evidence to suggest visible doorbell cameras can deter opportunistic thieves. A would-be burglar might think twice if they know they’re being recorded. Some police forces even recommend smart doorbells in their neighbourhood crime prevention advice.
However, there’s a flip side: some criminologists argue that a smart doorbell signals you have tech-savvy, expensive gadgets worth stealing. In other words, while they might deter casual criminals, they could attract more calculated ones. It’s what’s known as an ‘affluence clue’.
That said, crime trends are rarely down to one factor. Good locks, neighbourhood vigilance, and smart use of your tech all play a role.
How video doorbells help your insurance
It’s a common belief that having a video doorbell lowers your home insurance premium. In reality, it depends on your insurer. Some providers recognise smart security as a deterrent and may offer a discount, but others don’t.
What smart doorbells do offer is valuable evidence in the event of a claim. If a theft or incident occurs, having video footage could help speed up your claim and improve your chances of recovering stolen goods. A smart doorbell is a great addition, but it should sit alongside strong locks, secure windows, and a suitable home insurance policy for your property.
Safety – or just surveillance anxiety?
One criticism of smart doorbells is that they fuel anxiety. If you’re constantly checking motion alerts, are you really feeling safer, or just more hyper-vigilant? For some people, these devices offer huge reassurance. For others, the constant notifications are a source of stress.
The key is to use the tech wisely: customise your motion zones, set do-not-disturb hours, and resist the urge to check every single alert.
How hackable are video doorbells?
While video doorbells are designed to improve security, they aren’t without vulnerabilities. Greater Manchester Police recently warned that some criminals are using inexpensive signal jammers — devices that can be disguised as something as ordinary as a digital watch — to disable these doorbells.
A GMP spokesman explained that these gadgets can cut the doorbell’s internet connection, stopping it from recording footage or sending alerts to your phone. In practice, this means your home could be left unmonitored at a crucial moment, leaving no evidence of who was at your door. These jammers have been linked to both burglaries and high-end vehicle thefts.
Perhaps most worrying is how cheap and accessible these devices are. According to a BBC Rip Off Britain investigation, the tech used to hack video doorbells can be bought online for as little as £30!
But it’s not all bad news. One key way to protect your doorbell is by hardwiring it directly to your internet router rather than relying on Wi-Fi alone. This makes it much harder for a criminal to knock it offline. Strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and keeping your device’s software up to date will also help keep you protected.
For most households, choosing a reputable brand and reading up on privacy policies will steer you right. It’s less about brand snobbery and more about what works for your home.
Is your home well-protected?
Video doorbells can offer both peace of mind and practical protection when used thoughtfully. But like any security measure, they’re not fool proof. They work best as part of a wider security setup, rather than a silver bullet solution.
If you’re upgrading your home security, it’s also a great time to review your home insurance cover. At Howden, we’ll help you make sure your policy reflects the true value of your home and its contents, smart gadgets and all.
Sources: BBC News, Greater Manchester Police, Farsight, TechRadar
You could also read:
- Hidden risks in your garden
- Can you be insured for ‘travel anxiety’?
- Home improvements that don’t need planning permission
- Are you a target for ‘crash for cash’ scammers?
- Cyberattacks: how to protect your data
This is a marketing blog by Howden Insurance.