How to protect your smart security cameras from hackers

Hackers are getting smarter and targeting everything from personal devices to home security systems. With smart CCTV security cameras becoming more popular to protect our homes and businesses, they’re also catching the eye of cybercriminals looking for weak spots to exploit. 

Since these cameras are connected to the internet, hackers can take advantage of things like weak passwords, outdated software, or unsecured networks to hijack them for spying, stealing data, or even launching attacks on your home network. If you want to keep your smart cameras safe and your privacy secure, this guide will walk you through the key steps to protect your devices from potential threats. 

Protecting your smart security cameras from hackers

Smart cameras are a great way to keep an eye on things, but just like any connected device, they can be vulnerable to hackers. If you’re not careful, cybercriminals can exploit weak spots to gain access to your camera feeds. To keep your devices and privacy secure, here are some essential steps to make sure your smart cameras stay safe from unwanted eyes. 

1. Use strong and unique passwords 

Start by setting a strong password for your camera. Avoid easy-to-guess options like “admin” or “123456,” and go for a complex mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.  

 Also don’t forget to enable two-factor authentication (2FA) when possible as this adds a second layer of protection that works in tandem with your password to keep unauthorised users out. 

2. Change default settings 

Most cameras come with default settings that are easy for hackers to exploit. Right after setting up your camera, change the default username and password to something stronger. Also, if you don’t need certain features like UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) or remote access, turn them off to reduce potential risks. 

ALSO READ: 5 best CCTV cameras for your homes and offices in India in 2024 

3. Secure your Wi-Fi network 

Your camera is only as secure as the network it’s connected to, so ensure your Wi-Fi is as safe as possible. Use WPA3 (or at least WPA2) encryption on your router, and choose a unique, strong password for it. This step goes hand in hand with your camera’s security since a strong network keeps hackers from accessing the camera even if they manage to bypass other defences. You might also want to set up a separate network just for your cameras, further isolating them from other devices. 

4. Disable remote access 

If you don’t need to access your cameras remotely, turn off the feature. The fewer ways hackers can get in, the better. However, if remote access is a must, make sure you’re using a secure VPN (Virtual Private Network) to protect your connection when you access your cameras from outside your home network. 

5. Enable encryption 

Encryption ensures that the video feed from your security cameras stays private and secure. Many smart cameras offer end-to-end encryption, which is a great way to protect your data from being intercepted. If you’re storing footage in the cloud, double-check that the service is also encrypting your data to keep it safe. 

ALSO READ: A guide to the different types of doorbell cameras 

6. Monitor device activity 

Check the devices connected to your cameras and network regularly. If anything looks unfamiliar or suspicious, take action immediately. Some cameras even offer alerts when someone logs in or tries to access them, so enable these notifications to stay on top of any potential threats. 

7. Be cautious with third-party integrations 

Smart cameras often work with other devices or services such as Alexa or Google Assistant. While convenient, these integrations can also expose your camera to more risk if the other service is insecure. Always use strong authentication methods for third-party services and disable any integrations you don’t actually need. 

8. Use privacy features and review camera permissions 

Many smart cameras offer privacy settings that allow you to turn off the camera or microphone when you’re home. Enable these settings to make sure your camera isn’t always active. Some cameras also let you set schedules for when the camera is on or off, which can help minimise the risk of a hack when you’re not around. 

ALSO READ: 5 best outdoor security cameras to install in your homes  

Furthermore, regularly check who has access to your camera’s feed. Review the devices, apps, and users that have permission to connect, and revoke access to any that look suspicious or unnecessary. 

9. Limit physical access 

Physical security is just as important as digital security. Make sure your camera is mounted in a location that’s hard to reach or hide, so it’s less likely to be tampered with. Some cameras let you disable reset buttons or other manual overrides to prevent someone from easily gaining access. 

10. Regularly update firmware and software 

Finally, keeping your camera’s firmware and software up to date is important. Manufacturers regularly release updates that fix security holes and patch vulnerabilities. Make sure your camera is set to update automatically whenever new firmware is released, so you never miss a critical fix.