Can Wireless Security Cameras Be Hacked?
When you are ready to install your wireless security cameras, consider Jay360. We will use our many years of experience with security camera system installation in Ontario to help you set up your security system the right way.
Wireless security cameras come with many conveniences and benefits. They are easy to install and are cheaper than wired security cameras. This has made security surveillance accessible to the home and small business markets. But are they a foolproof technology?
Wireless security cameras are susceptible to hacking if not protected
While wireless surveillance cameras have brought many conveniences, concerns about their vulnerability never go away. Property owners are anxious about the possibility their video feeds getting intercepted by hackers and criminals, which comprises their security and privacy.
The internet connectivity of wireless security cameras is one of their most attractive features. It allows remote monitoring, two-way audio, and enable camera manufacturers to update software remotely among a host of other benefits.
It is the same remote access capability that hackers can exploit to gain access to your security camera system. Once they get your login information, they can hijack your whole security system, discreetly monitor your property, and even sell it to criminals. Thankfully, you can prevent this through simple measures and precautions.
How to prevent your wireless security cameras from being hacked
Sadly hackers property owners are not as vigilant about their digital security as they should be. And the fact that modern homes and businesses have several connected devices running at the same time compounds the problem.
Keeping on top of all the passwords you have to is not always easy, which is what hackers are counting on and often exploit.
Here are a few ways to protect your security cameras from hackers:
Change your security camera system's default passwords and usernames
If you use a router to connect your wireless security cameras to the wifi network you use for internet connection, make sure to change the default password and username.
Router passwords are often neglected, which makes them an attractive target for hackers. The best way to secure them and the connected devices that run through them is by setting up strong passwords. Replace the router and wireless cameras’ default passwords with strong ones.
For the best passwords, use a combination of lower and uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Make your passwords as complex as you can. Avoid using personal details like your name and date of birth. We now publish such information publicly on social media platforms where they are easy to obtain.
Just as importantly, do not use the same password across different accounts. Create a unique one for each account so that a breach on one account doesn’t expose all your other accounts.
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Update firmware
To keep your connected security cameras protected and to throw off hackers, security camera manufacturers are constantly updating their software. To benefit from this protection, you have to stay up to date with firmware updates.
The best way to make sure you never miss any software updates is to turn on ‘automatic updates’ if your system allows it.
Turn off router features that expose your system to hacks
Features such as remote access come standard on some security cameras and routers. Turning this off will close a potential loophole on your security system. Remote access, also known as Remote Administration or Remote Management is turned on as default on some security systems.
If your wireless security camera system has a remote monitoring feature and you do not use it, turn it off. Leaving it on when you are not using it will mean you will not monitor it as much, which opens a vulnerability that hackers can exploit.
A feature you will want to turn on if the router you use with your wireless security cameras support it is WPA3 encryption. WEP encryption is now outdated and will not protect your system. If that is the only encryption your router supports, upgrade to WPA3.
Opt into two-factor authentification if your wireless security cameras offer it
Many connected devices now offer two-step authentification that adds another layer of protection onto your username and password. Use it if your wireless security camera supports offer it.
Two-factor authentification ensures your system remains protected if your passwords fall into the wrong hands. The more popular type sends an SMS with a code you must input after your password has been accepted. This means the hacker will also need to have control of your mobile phone to complete the login.
Enjoy the convenience of wireless security cameras without exposing yourself to hackers
Interception of the video footage your wireless security cameras transmit or theft of personal information you share through them poses a serious potential security threat. But you can easily protect yourself with the precautions and measures we have shared.
When you are ready to install your wireless security cameras, consider Jay360.
We will use our many years of experience with security camera system installation in Ontario to help you set up your security system the right way.
