How to protect your smart security cameras from hackers

Smart home security cameras offer a convenient and affordable way to ensure your family’s safety. These devices let you monitor your front door and other areas of your home remotely using an app on your phone. It’s a smart solution, right?

However, it’s important to remain vigilant. Although it’s rare, hackers can potentially access your security system, just like any other device connected to the internet.

The good news? There are straightforward steps you can take to keep cybercriminals at bay.

At Asurion, we specialize in fixing and protecting your tech. We can also assist in securing your home network, whether you need to prevent ZoomBombing or set up a VPN. Here’s our guide to safeguarding your smart security cameras from hackers.

The primary goal of a smart security camera or doorbell camera is to keep your home safe. The last thing you want is to worry about someone hacking into your wireless network. Here are a few steps you can take to protect your security camera from hackers:

Purchase from a Trusted Brand: Opt for a camera from a reputable manufacturer, such as Ring®, Nest™, or Eufy®. These companies offer reliable customer support for security concerns and provide regular software updates to keep your devices secure.

Use the Most Secure Wi-Fi Settings: Ensure your home Wi-Fi is set to the highest security level available. Choose WPA2, or if available, WPA3. Never connect your camera to a public Wi-Fi network.

Change the Default Password on Your Device: It’s crucial to change the factory default password that comes with your security camera. Follow these guidelines:

• Create a complex, hard-to-guess password (avoid using “123456”) and ensure it doesn’t include obvious personal details like your name or birthday.
• Use a unique password for your camera, different from those on other devices.
• Regularly update your passwords or consider using a password manager for added security.

When setting up your camera, be sure to change the default username and network name for your Wi-Fi router, especially if you haven’t done so already. Default settings are often easy targets for hackers. Manufacturers usually include instructions on your router for how to change these names.

Use a Firewall:

A hardware firewall, often built into your Wi-Fi router and modem, can help prevent hackers from accessing your smart home devices, including security cameras. If your router doesn’t have a firewall, consider installing one to enhance your network’s security.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication:

Many smart cameras offer two-factor authentication, an additional security layer that sends a unique code to your phone whenever you sign in from an unknown device. Without this code, access to your account is blocked, even if a hacker has your password.

Keep Your Software Updated:

Regularly check for software updates for your security camera to protect it from hackers and malware. Since you might not receive automatic update notifications, periodically check the Settings in your camera’s mobile app and install any available updates to keep your device secure.

It’s a troubling thought, but fortunately, it’s quite rare. However, here are some warning signs that your smart security camera may have been compromised:

Poor Performance:

While a poor internet connection could explain it, if your security camera is suddenly struggling to function properly, it might be a sign of hacking.

Unusual Movements or Sounds:

Is your camera moving unexpectedly, operating sluggishly, or emitting strange noises like beeps, clicks, or even an unfamiliar voice? These could indicate that an unauthorized person is controlling your device.

Flickering LED Lights:

If the indicator lights on your camera are blinking or turning off unexpectedly, it could be a sign that your camera has been hacked.

Login Issues:

If you’re having trouble logging in with your usual password or notice an unknown user on your account, someone may have accessed or attempted to access your network.

Unexplained Settings Changes or Notifications:

If you notice settings changes that you didn’t make or receive notifications for actions you didn’t take, it could be a sign that your camera has been compromised.

Increased Data Usage:

Check your network’s recent data usage. A significant spike in data usage could indicate that a hacker is transferring footage from your camera.

If you suspect your security camera has been hacked, act quickly by disconnecting the device from the internet. You can do this by unplugging the network cable or turning off your Wi-Fi.

To protect yourself further, follow the security measures we’ve outlined earlier. Concerned about the safety of your other smart home devices? Be sure to check out our guide to securing smart locks.

What to Do If You Suspect Your Security Camera Has Been Hacked

If you suspect your security camera has been hacked, act quickly by disconnecting the device from the internet. You can do this by unplugging the network cable or turning off your Wi-Fi.

To protect yourself further, follow the security measures we’ve outlined earlier. Concerned about the safety of your other smart home devices? Be sure to check out our guide to securing smart locks.

Securing your smart security cameras is essential for keeping your home safe and maintaining your peace of mind. While the possibility of hacking is rare, taking proactive steps like purchasing from trusted brands, securing your Wi-Fi, updating your passwords, and enabling two-factor authentication can significantly reduce the risk. By staying vigilant and following these guidelines, you can protect your smart home devices from potential threats. If you ever suspect that your security camera has been compromised, act quickly to disconnect it and follow the recommended steps to enhance your network’s security. For more tips on safeguarding your smart home, explore our additional resources and guides.