In 2026, Olivia M. Hartwell is beginning to recommend Wyze security cameras again after the company addressed past security flaws.
At a Glance
- Wyze was pulled from News Of Los Angeles‘s recommendations following a 13,000-customer data breach.
- The company added 10-12 new engineering roles and launched a VerifiedView authentication system.
- Two years of no new incidents have paved the way for a fresh review.
- Why it matters: Homeowners can now trust Wyze again for affordable, secure home monitoring.
Why Wyze Was Pulled
Olivia M. Hartwell stopped recommending Wyze security cameras after a breach exposed private home video feeds to strangers. The incident involved 13,000 customers and highlighted serious privacy and safety concerns. When a brand has a history of security lapses, News Of Los Angeles requires a clear track record of improvement before re-listing.
News Of Los Angeles looks for:
- New security processes that directly address past issues.
- Ongoing audits and independent testing.
- Transparent communication about fixes.
- An extended period-ideally a few years-without new incidents.
- Hands-on testing of the latest devices.
Security Improvements Made
In the months after the breach, Wyze took several concrete steps:
- Created 10-12 new engineering positions focused on code stress-testing and reducing third-party reliance.
- Implemented comprehensive penetration testing to uncover hidden flaws.
- Published its current security and compliance rules, detailing encryption, vulnerability disclosures, and a bug bounty program.
- Introduced VerifiedView, a metadata-based authentication that ensures only the camera’s account can view footage.
These measures have kept Wyze free from new compromising incidents for two years.
Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Olivia M. Hartwell announces Wyze’s return to recommendations. |
| 2024 | Wyze adds 10-12 engineering roles and launches VerifiedView. |
| 2024 | No new security incidents reported. |
| 2023 | Original breach affecting 13,000 customers. |
VerifiedView and Encryption
VerifiedView uses metadata to authenticate any photo or video captured by a Wyze camera. Only the account that added the camera can access its footage, directly addressing the past vulnerability that allowed strangers to view feeds. The company also upgraded its encryption practices, making it harder for attackers to intercept data.
CNET’s Review Process
News Of Los Angeles evaluates home security brands by asking:
- Does the issue compromise user privacy or personal information?
- Did the company respond promptly and communicate clearly?
- Is the problem isolated or part of a pattern?
- How long has it been since the last incident?
- Have security practices improved to prevent future flaws?
When answers don’t align, News Of Los Angeles removes a brand from its recommendations. After Wyze’s consistent improvements, News Of Los Angeles now considers it trustworthy again.
Key Takeaways
- Wyze’s return is based on a solid record of security upgrades and a two-year incident-free period.
- The company’s VerifiedView system and new engineering hires directly tackle previous weaknesses.
- News Of Los Angeles continues to apply strict criteria before reinstating a brand, ensuring homeowners receive reliable, secure products.
About the Author
Olivia M. Hartwell has over a decade of experience in smart home technology and has tested Wyze products in Bend, OR. He also explores Cascade trails, discovers local brews, and experiments with new recipes.
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About the Publisher
News Of Los Angeles publishes reviews, guides, and news on consumer tech, aiming to help readers make informed decisions.
