HOW TO TELL IF THERE’S A HACKER IN YOUR HOME SECURITY CAMERA

Let’s talk about a homeowner’s biggest fear when it comes to security cameras: hackers. News outlets frequently cover high-profile cases of security breaches, which include hacking into home security systems. This makes it an important concern at the front of homeowners’ minds, and today, we’re here to get to the bottom of it. How common is it to have someone hack into your home security camera, what are the signs that they’re there, and are you at risk? In this article, we’ll answer these questions, and provide you with advice on how to prevent unwelcome guests in your home security. 

How Do Hackers Get In A Security Camera?

In simple terms, home security camera hacking refers to unauthorized access to your security camera’s functions and data by malicious actors. This means that someone who shouldn’t have access to view or control your camera is able to do so, compromising your privacy and potentially your security as well. The likelihood of getting hacked depends on the quality of the camera and the preventative measures the user has or hasn’t taken to be secure. 

One of the most common exploits hackers will use when it comes to any piece of software is weak passwords. Login credentials serve as, for many softwares, the main line of defense. Some hackers use tools that will automatically generate and use multiple password combinations in a short period of time. This is especially deadly when a home security camera is still using the default username and password. Every model comes with default credentials that largely resemble each other in structure and format. You are meant to, and will likely be advised to, change these credentials once you begin using the camera. However, not everyone does. This makes it easy for hackers to narrow down the correct credentials. We recommend you change the default credentials as soon as possible and use a strong password for any home security camera that’s connected to Wi-Fi.  

It’s easier for a hacker to hack into a home security camera if the firmware is out of date and/or using a Wi-Fi connection. These cameras typically have a broader attack surface since Wi-Fi extends accessibility, making it easier for hackers to exploit vulnerabilities. Additionally, outdated firmware can give hackers access to known vulnerabilities that aren’t patched out on your camera. Cheaper home security cameras will have significantly less encryption measures, giving you no power to shield yourself from a hack.  

Signs That A Home Security Camera Is Hacked

Unusual Activity Indicators

• The home security camera’s LED comes on without anyone in the household accessing the camera. Many cameras have a light that turns on during remote access or live streaming, so unexpected activity might suggest unauthorized use.
• The camera is moving or panning without anyone in the household moving it physically or through app integration. 
• You hear sounds coming from the security camera’s mic. Strange noises such as clicks, beeps, or unfamiliar voices may indicate that someone else is listening or trying to communicate.

Login Alerts

• Many security camera systems offer notifications for new logins from different locations or devices. Unrecognized login alerts could indicate that someone is trying to access your camera.
• Receiving alerts for multiple failed login attempts can also be a red flag, suggesting that someone is attempting a brute force attack to guess your password.

Other Signs

• Most security cameras keep logs of access, including IP addresses that have connected to the camera. If your camera’s log has an unfamiliar IP address attached to it, that may be an indication that a hacker has entered the camera. 
• Data usage has, for seemingly no reason, spiked on your network. 
• Your camera’s settings have been altered despite no one with access to your security settings changing them. 

Risks Involved In A Home Security Camera Hack

Privacy Invasion

• Unauthorized Surveillance: Hackers can gain visual and auditory access to your private spaces, observing and listening to your daily activities without your consent.
• Recording and Sharing: Captured video footage and audio recordings can be stored, shared, or even live-streamed without your knowledge, potentially exposing sensitive moments.

Physical Security Threats

• Monitoring Your Habits: Hackers can observe your routines, learning when you are home or away, which can aid in planning burglaries or other criminal activities.
• Disabling Security Measures: They can potentially disable your cameras or other connected security devices, leaving your home unprotected.

Data Theft

• Personal Information: If your cameras are connected to other smart home devices, hackers can potentially access personal data, including address, phone numbers, and even financial information.
• Credentials: Hackers can steal login credentials for your camera and other smart home accounts, which can then be used for further attacks or sold on the dark web.

Identity Theft and Fraud

• Identity Exposure: Audio and video access can reveal personal details that can be used for identity theft, including conversations about personal information.
• Phishing and Scams: Information gained from surveillance can be used to craft convincing phishing emails or scams targeted at the inhabitants of the home.

Financial Losses

• Ransomware: Hackers could install ransomware on connected devices, blocking access until a ransom is paid.
• Repair and Replacement Costs: Recovering from a hack may involve significant expenses, including purchasing new devices, professional IT support, and upgrading security systems.

What Should You Do If Your Home Security Camera Has Been Hacked?

If you suspect or confirm that your home security camera has been hacked, act as quickly as you can to mitigate the damage and secure your system. Start by disconnecting your camera and disconnecting the camera from your Wi-Fi network. If you’re unsure about the extent of the breach or how to secure your network and devices, consider hiring a professional cybersecurity expert. They can provide a comprehensive security audit and recommend specific measures tailored to your situation.

Be advised that a security breach doesn’t mean you can no longer own or use a home security camera. There’s many avenues you can take to continue using security cameras as your trusted first line of protection. If you want to guarantee a security breach won’t happen again, the best action to take would be to switch to wired cameras and hire a professional security installation company. 

Transitioning To A Wired Home Security System With JR Security Solutions

Located in Fergus, Ontario, JR Security Solutions is a security installation company servicing homes and businesses across Kitchener, Guelph, and the surrounding area. We are registered dealers of a diverse selection of top-quality security equipment not available in the consumer market. 

Our team of trained security professionals are knowledgeable in the tactics hackers use to get into your camera. We use this knowledge to build a robust security system proven to prevent security breaches. We gain a thorough understanding of your needs, budget, and vulnerabilities, and use it to deliver a top-tier personalized security solution. The service doesn’t end there, we create a full camera placement strategy for our customers, made to cover blind spots and vulnerabilities on the property.

On the job, we’ll provide you with on-site technical support to help you become familiar with our fully-encrypted security technology. We’ll show you how to use our system to detect and address security vulnerabilities and act instantly. We’ll stay by your side to ensure every part of your security solution is fully prepared and ready to roll, and that means no leaving you with default login credentials. Additionally, you can feel free to bounce off any security-related questions and concerns on us for your knowledge and peace of mind.