● Covered by 2 sources · 2 reportsMedium impact2 neutral
Ring Introduces New TAKE Encryption as Default for All Cameras
Key points
- Ring's new TAKE encryption is rolling out as the default for all cameras.
- TAKE limits Ring's ability to provide video to law enforcement.
- The new method allows for features like Smart Alerts and video search.
- Encryption keys are temporarily stored in the cloud and deleted within 24 hours.
- Rollout begins in September for all customers, regardless of subscription.
New Encryption Standard
Ring, an Amazon-owned company, has introduced a new encryption method named TAKE, which stands for Throw Away the Key Encryption. This method will become the default encryption for all Ring cameras, rolling out gradually starting in September for all customers, including those without a subscription.
Impact on Data Access
TAKE is designed to limit when and why Amazon's cloud can access user videos. According to Ring spokesperson Sam McGee, with TAKE, Ring will only be able to provide non-video information and encrypted video files in response to requests, including those from law enforcement. This change addresses privacy concerns related to cloud-based cameras and Ring's previous ties to law enforcement.
Maintaining Smart Features
Despite the increased privacy, TAKE allows Ring to continue offering smart features. These include AI-powered alerts for people and packages, AI-powered video search, and video descriptions. The standard works by using a rotating set of encryption keys that are temporarily stored in the cloud. These keys are used to temporarily decrypt and process videos for features like Smart Alerts, and are then deleted within 24 hours once the request is completed.
Addressing Privacy Concerns
The introduction of TAKE follows a period of scrutiny for Ring regarding its connections to law enforcement and the privacy implications of features like its AI-powered Search Party. Ring states that TAKE protects user videos without relying on traditional end-to-end encryption, which can restrict certain features.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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How outlets covered it
Ring is implementing a new encryption standard called TAKE (Throw Away the Key Encryption) as the default for video encryption and user control, which will roll out globally starting in September. This standard allows Ring to offer cloud-based features like Smart Alerts by temporarily decrypting videos, while users can still opt for end-to-end encryption.
Ring, an Amazon-owned company, has developed a new encryption method called TAKE (Throw Away the Key Encryption) that will become the default for all Ring cameras, limiting the company's ability to provide video footage to law enforcement. This change addresses privacy concerns related to cloud-based cameras and Ring's ties to police, while still allowing for smart features like AI-powered alerts and video search.