How to Use Ring's Control Center for Better Privacy and Security

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Security

Ring’s popular security products come with privacy concerns, especially related to law enforcement partnerships and account vulnerabilities. The Ring Control Center is a dashboard within the Ring app that lets you enhance security, manage account settings, and protect your privacy. Here's how to make the most of it:

1. Account Verification Settings

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
Mandatory for all users; ensures you’ll need a secondary code sent via text or an authenticator app to log in.
Set Your Preference:
Update the method (SMS or authenticator app) and ensure codes go to the right device.
Generate Verification Codes:
For Customer Support assistance if needed.

2. Review Authorized Client Devices

Check Logged-In Devices:
See all smartphones, tablets, or computers accessing your account.
Revoke Suspicious Devices:
Remove unknown or unused devices individually or wipe all devices to reset access.
Bonus Tip:
If resetting devices, update your password for added security.

3. Manage Linked Accounts

Third-Party Smart Devices:
Check for integrations with smart locks or hubs.
Remove Unused Accounts:
Revoke access for old or unrecognized linked accounts to prevent unauthorized viewing of live feeds.

4. Review Shared Users

Manage Access:
See who has access to your Ring devices via shared accounts.
Remove Unnecessary Users:
Revoke access by selecting the email address and tapping the red trash icon.

5. Set Video Management Preferences

Control Video Storage Time:
Shorten storage duration from the default 180 days to options as short as 1 day to limit exposure.
Unshare Videos:
Review shared videos and revoke access to outdated ones.

6. Enable End-to-End Encryption

Enhanced Security:
Encrypt videos so only your enrolled devices can access them.
Limitations:
Disables features like shared accounts and Alexa voice commands.
Availability:
Works only with select Ring models.

7. Video Request and Neighbors Settings

Opt Out of Law Enforcement Video Requests:
Disable notifications for video sharing requests from law enforcement.
Turn Off Neighbors Network Feed:
Disable posts from neighbors or law enforcement to reduce exposure to potentially harmful profiling.

8. Opt Out of Amazon Sidewalk

What It Does:
Creates a shared network using select Ring devices and Amazon Echo products.
Disable It:
Tap Amazon Sidewalk in Control Center, then toggle it off to prevent your internet connection from being shared.

9. Disable Third-Party Service Providers

Stop Tracking:
Opt out of web and app analytics as well as personalized advertising.
Steps:
Go to Third-Party Service Providers in the Control Center, toggle off settings, and confirm.

Why These Settings Matter

Protect Your Privacy: Limit access to your data, videos, and device integrations.
Enhance Security: Block unauthorized access by reviewing devices and linked accounts.
Stay in Control: Regularly check for updates or suspicious activities.

Making these adjustments ensures that your Ring devices provide security for your home—without compromising your digital privacy.