Security cameras give you peace of mind, so it’s natural to wonder whether someone else could be looking through them. Camera hacking does get news coverage, but the good news is that most cases come down to a few avoidable problems, such as default passwords and out-of-date firmware. In this article, we’ll explain how cameras get compromised, the signs to watch for, what to do if you’re worried, and how to keep your system secure.
How Do Hackers Get Into 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 software programs, the main line of defence. Some hackers use tools that will automatically generate and use multiple password combinations in a short period of time. This is especially risky 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It’s easier for a hacker to hack into a home security camera if the firmware is out of date and/or using a Wi-Fi connection.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 Additionally, outdated firmware can give hackers access to known vulnerabilities that aren’t patched out on your camera. Some consumer cameras get fewer security updates, so it’s worth checking how a brand handles firmware updates before you buy.
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.
- 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 to access other accounts.
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: Malware on connected devices can lock you out of your own system, which is why updates and strong passwords matter.
- 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 unplugging the camera and disconnecting it 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 are many avenues you can take to continue using security cameras as your trusted first line of protection. To greatly reduce the risk of it happening again, consider switching to wired cameras installed by a professional.
How to Keep Your Cameras Secure
- Change default usernames and passwords on every camera, recorder and app account, and use a strong, unique password.
- Turn on two-factor authentication in the camera app if it’s offered.
- Keep firmware up to date on cameras and the recorder.
- Prefer wired cameras. Cameras connected by cable to a network video recorder (NVR) aren’t exposed over Wi-Fi the way wireless cameras are.
- Secure your network. A properly configured router and a separate network for cameras and smart devices make a real difference. Our networking services cover this.
- Choose professional-grade equipment from a reputable supplier. See consumer vs. professional security cameras.
Secure, Professionally Installed Cameras From JR Security Solutions
JR Security Solutions is based in Fergus, Ontario, and installs security cameras for homes and businesses across Wellington County, Waterloo Region, Hamilton and surrounding communities, including Kitchener and Guelph. We’re an authorized Uniview (UNV) dealer, and our technicians are certified and trained on Uniview, so we know the common ways cameras get compromised and keep firmware up to date.
When we install a system, we plan camera placement to cover blind spots, use wired connections wherever possible, set strong unique credentials (never the defaults), and show you how to use the app and check who has access. If you have questions later, you can always call us.
Book a free on-site assessment or call (226) 400-2052. We’re open daily 9am–9pm.
