Quote:Smart doorbell maker Ring is giving cybersecurity critics less to gripe about with the introduction of end-to-end encryption to many of its models. Ring products, which have been a juggernaut success with consumers, have faced a litany of harsh criticism from cybersecurity experts for what they say is a lack of attention to basic digital security.

After a much anticipated response to critics, Ring this week rolled out end-to-end encryption for many of its home security camera products. End-to-end encryption, according to Ring, can be added to less than 50 percent of its in-use products. Older model smart-doorbell products, such as its first and second-generation video doorbells, cannot be upgraded with the added protection.

The move was anticipated, but initiated later than planned.
 
Technical specifics by the Amazon-owned company Ring were made available on Wednesday (PDF) as part of a technical preview of the new security measures. Ring’s end-to-end encryption plans was first announced in September and originally slated to be introduced by the end of 2020.
 
The feature—which will be optional and free for customers—will allow only the device authorized and enrolled with the associated Ring account to accept and access the live Ring video stream. If third parties want to view a recording or stream on another device, they will need access to an encryption key stored on the mobile device authorized to view the stream.
 
It’s unclear how law enforcements’ access to Ring doorbell feeds might be impacted – if at all.