A $10K Bounty Awaits Anyone Who Can Hack Ring Cameras to Stop Sharing Data With Amazon

Wired

by Boone Ashworth

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A nonprofit organization called the Fulu Foundation has offered a $10,000 bounty to anyone who can hack into Ring cameras and stop them from sharing data with Amazon. This initiative comes in response to growing concerns over privacy after Ring's controversial "Search Party" feature was showcased in a Super Bowl ad. The feature uses a network of Ring cameras to locate lost dogs, but critics fear it could evolve into broader neighborhood surveillance. The Fulu Foundation, known for addressing user-hostile tech features, aims to empower individuals by giving them control over their devices and data. The backlash against Ring's partnership with AI surveillance company Flock and its new feature has been significant. Many users have destroyed their cameras in protest, while others are seeking technical solutions to regain control of their data. The foundation’s challenge requires participants to modify Ring cameras so they no longer send data to Amazon without breaking the hardware. The modified devices must still function properly, retaining features like motion detection and color night vision. The solution must be achievable with basic tools and instructions accessible to a moderately tech-savvy user. The Fulu Foundation emphasizes that the winner of the bounty can choose whether to release their findings publicly, acknowledging potential legal risks under Section 1201 of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act. Kevin O’Reilly, cofounder of Fulu, sees this as an opportunity for individuals to take back control of their devices and data, ensuring privacy without compromising security features. For tech enthusiasts, this challenge highlights the ongoing tension between innovation and privacy in smart home devices. The $10,000 bounty not only addresses immediate concerns about Ring cameras but also underscores broader issues of data ownership and corporate surveillance. As interest in DIY tech solutions grows, initiatives like these encourage users to advocate for their digital rights, fostering a more informed and empowered community.

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Originally published on Wired on 2/20/2026