Device Registered to Someone Else Message During Setup

**Device Ownership Transfer** If you get a message that your Doorbell or Security Camera is registered to someone else during setup, follow the prompts in the Ring app to **Learn More About Device Transfers** . You can request a transfer from the original/registered owner. If you do not see prompts in the Ring app to initiate a device transfer on your own, [make sure you have the latest version of the Ring app.](https://support.ring.com/hc/en-us/articles/204384784-Downloading-and-Updating-the-Ring-App) If you update the app and still do not have the feature available, you will need to contact [Ring Support](https://support.ring.com/hc/en-us/articles/213608406). Deleting the Ring app, cancelling a subscription plan, or physically uninstalling a Ring device does not automatically release ownership. If you have a way to contact the original/registered owner, you can send them a link to this page with step-by-step instructions on removing the device from their account. ***While you navigate this article, click on sentences with arrows to uncover more useful tips!*** [details="How to Remove a Ring Device from your Account and Release Ownership"] Open the Ring app: * Tap the three lines on the top left * Tap **Devices** * Tap the device that you want to release * Tap **Device Settings** * Tap **General Settings** * Tap **Remove this Device** on the bottom of the screen * Once you remove the device, all of your data and any videos will be removed * If you need to download videos before you remove a device, you can get [step-by-step instructions using this link](https://support.ring.com/hc/en-us/articles/115001834066-Sharing-and-Downloading-Your-Ring-Videos) [/details] **After you Request a Device Ownership Transfer** The original/registered owner will get email messages from Ring asking them to remove the device from their account if they authorize the transfer. The device ownership transfer process can take 15 days or more starting from the initial request date. Once you initiate the process in the Ring app, you’ll receive email messages with status updates. If you re-attempt a set up before the device has been released from the previous owner, you’ll get a message saying the transfer has not been completed. **Note** : Ring Community Support cannot expedite requests to release devices from original/registered owners. [details="Purchased from a Retailer - Registered to Someone Else"] If you purchased the device from a retailer, and get the message that it's registered to someone else, please return it and ask for a replacement. [/details] [details="Device Cannot be Transferred Message"] If you get a message that the device cannot be transferred because it was reported stolen or can’t be transferred for another reason, such as the previous owner is deceased, please contact [Ring Support.](https://support.ring.com/hc/en-us/articles/360036196372-Get-in-Touch) [/details]