- Smart cameras bring additional risks to users in many ways including improper security settings that can leave it open to hackers.
- By regularly applying the relevant software updates, one can boost the security of their devices.
Security cameras now come in various forms ranging from smart cameras and baby monitors to other Internet of Things (IoT) products. That’s why it is imperative for users to take the right steps for the overall safety of the devices and avoid being hacked by notorious actors over the internet.
How smart cameras are a target?
IoT security cameras and other devices are gaining popularity in households and workplaces.
- Smart cameras pose additional risks to users due to improper security settings that leave it open to hackers.
- Using default or easy-to-guess passwords poses a big security risk.
- Hackers can use it as an entry point to infilitrate and snoop on people through connected devices in their homes.
How to protect yourself?
UK's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) released a new guidance paper that presents three simple steps to boost cybersecurity and make it more difficult for hackers to compromise smart camera devices.
Change default passwords
- Most of the IoT devices come set with default passwords that are either short and easy to guess. In some cases, the same default password is carried by all the devices.
- The NCSC recommends changing the password on connected devices which can be done through the associated mobile apps.
- As suggested by the NCSC, users should change the password to three random words and avoid using any passwords that feature in the list of the most commonly hacked passwords.
Updates software regularly
- Software updates provide patches for security bugs, add new features, and improve overall functionality. By regularly applying the relevant software updates, one can boost the security of their devices.
- As per NCSC guidance, users should set their devices to automatically install firmware updates so it is protected without requiring frequent manual intervention.
Disable remote view
Oftentimes, some security cameras provides features that allow users to remotely view their camera footage via the internet. However, the NCSC recommends disabling it. It could prevent hackers who attempt to infiltrate into the network through weakness or bugs in these systems. Hence, one can prevent unwanted actors from snooping on their premises.
Comments
Dr. Ian Levy, technical director at the NCSC said, "Smart technology such as cameras and baby monitors are fantastic innovations with real benefits for people, but without the right security measures in place they can be vulnerable to cyber attackers."
"These are practical measures which all can take to help us get the most out of our home-based technology in a safe way," Levy added.
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