Ring is introducing a new video encryption system called TAKE, or Throw Away the Key Encryption, which the company says will establish a new standard for default video encryption and customer control in home security.

TAKE is rolling out to Ring customers in phases starting in September and will become the default encryption for all Ring customers worldwide once fully rolled out.

Ring said its videos are already encrypted while traveling to the cloud and when stored at rest. With TAKE, videos are protected using unique, rotating encryption keys. A copy of the keys is temporarily held inside a secure enclave within the cloud, which Ring describes as a sealed vault that provides access to the key only under strict and limited conditions.

Ring can access the keys to power intelligent features that customers have activated on their accounts. Afterward, Ring throws away and deletes the keys. The customer then retains the keys to their videos on enrolled devices such as a phone, tablet or computer. Customers can also enable trusted Shared Users to retain access to their keys.

According to Ring, the system is designed to maintain features such as Smart Alerts while giving customers greater control over their videos and encryption keys.

E2EE Remains Available

Ring will continue offering end-to-end encryption (E2EE) as an option for customers who want the highest level of control available.

The company introduced video E2EE in 2021. With E2EE enabled, only enrolled devices have access to encryption keys. Because access is limited by design, Shared Users and cloud-based features are unavailable. Core functions including live view, playback and video sharing remain available.

Customers can manage their encryption settings through the Ring app on a per-device basis and switch between TAKE and E2EE as they choose.

Ring said TAKE reflects its ongoing focus on privacy and security and its efforts to develop products based on customer needs.