Cybersecurity Tips for Smart Cameras

There's a certain irony in having your security camera become a security vulnerability. Yet every year, stories emerge of hackers accessing home cameras, viewing private footage, or even speaking through camera speakers to frighten homeowners. These incidents, while relatively rare, highlight an important truth: the devices meant to protect your home need protection themselves.

The good news is that securing your cameras doesn't require technical expertise. By following some fundamental cybersecurity practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of your security system being compromised.

Understanding the Risks

Before diving into solutions, it helps to understand how camera systems get compromised. The most common attack vectors include:

• Weak or default passwords: Many breaches occur because users never change factory-set passwords
• Outdated firmware: Unpatched vulnerabilities in camera software
• Insecure networks: Cameras on poorly protected WiFi networks
• Credential reuse: Using the same password across multiple accounts
• Phishing attacks: Tricking users into revealing login details

Most attacks target low-hanging fruit: cameras with default credentials or obvious passwords. Taking basic precautions puts you ahead of the majority of potential victims.

Creating Strong Passwords

Change Default Credentials Immediately

The first thing you should do with any new camera is change the default username and password. Default credentials are published in product manuals that are freely available online. Hackers have automated tools that scan for devices still using factory settings.

Password Best Practices

Create strong, unique passwords for each security account:

• Length matters: Use at least 12 characters; longer is better
• Mix character types: Combine uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols
• Avoid obvious choices: Don't use family names, birthdays, or common words
• Use unique passwords: Never reuse passwords across different accounts or cameras
• Consider passphrases: A string of random words can be both secure and memorable

Password Management

With multiple cameras and accounts to manage, a password manager becomes invaluable. These tools generate and store complex passwords securely, requiring you to remember only one master password. Popular options include LastPass, 1Password, and Bitwarden. Most integrate with smartphones for convenient access when setting up cameras.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a second verification step when logging in. Even if someone obtains your password, they can't access your account without the second factor; typically a code sent to your phone or generated by an authenticator app.

Most major camera manufacturers now offer 2FA. Enable it on:

• Your camera manufacturer's app/account
• Any associated cloud storage accounts
• Your email account (used for password resets)
• Smart home platforms (Alexa, Google Home, etc.)

While 2FA adds a minor inconvenience when logging in from new devices, the security benefit far outweighs this small effort.

Keep Firmware Updated

Why Updates Matter

Camera manufacturers regularly discover and patch security vulnerabilities in their software. These updates are your defence against newly discovered attack methods. A camera running outdated firmware is vulnerable to every exploit discovered since its last update.

Update Best Practices

• Enable automatic updates: Most cameras offer this option; turn it on
• Check manually monthly: Even with auto-update, verify cameras are current
• Update router firmware too: Your network is only as secure as its weakest device
• Don't ignore update notifications: They exist for good reason

Secure Your Network

WiFi Security

Your cameras are only as secure as the network they connect to. Ensure your WiFi is properly protected:

• Use WPA3 or WPA2 encryption: Never use older, vulnerable protocols like WEP
• Set a strong WiFi password: Apply the same password principles to your network
• Change default router credentials: Router admin panels are a prime target
• Keep router firmware updated: Routers need security patches too

Network Segmentation

For enhanced security, consider placing cameras on a separate network from your primary devices. Many modern routers support guest networks or VLANs that can isolate IoT devices. This way, even if a camera is compromised, attackers can't easily reach your computers or phones.

Disable Remote Access When Not Needed

Some cameras allow direct access from the internet without going through the manufacturer's cloud service. Unless you specifically need this feature and understand how to secure it, leave it disabled. Cloud-based access through manufacturer apps is generally more secure than direct connections.

Choose Reputable Brands

Not all camera manufacturers prioritise security equally. When purchasing cameras, consider:

• Established brands: Companies with reputations to protect invest more in security
• Regular update history: Check if the manufacturer actively maintains their products
• Privacy policies: Understand how your data is collected, stored, and used
• Security certifications: Some products undergo third-party security audits

Extremely cheap cameras from unknown brands may seem attractive but often cut corners on security. The savings aren't worth the risk of having your home surveillance compromised.

Physical Security Considerations

Cybersecurity isn't only about digital protections. Consider physical aspects as well:

• Mount cameras out of easy reach: Prevents physical tampering or theft
• Protect local storage devices: If using NVR or local recording, secure the hardware
• Be mindful of visible passwords: Don't write WiFi passwords where cameras can see them

Monitoring for Compromise

Stay alert to signs that your cameras may have been compromised:

• Cameras moving or adjusting without your input (for PTZ cameras)
• Unfamiliar voices or sounds from camera speakers
• LED indicators behaving unexpectedly
• Unable to access cameras or account lockouts
• Unusual network traffic from camera IP addresses
• Settings changed without your knowledge

If you suspect a breach, immediately change all passwords, check for unauthorised account access, update firmware, and consider factory resetting affected cameras.

Privacy-Focused Alternatives

For those particularly concerned about cloud security, consider cameras that offer:

• Local-only storage: No cloud upload means no cloud vulnerability
• End-to-end encryption: Even the manufacturer can't access your footage
• HomeKit Secure Video: Apple's privacy-focused approach with local processing
• Self-hosted solutions: For technically inclined users, running your own server

Balancing convenience with privacy is a personal choice. More privacy-focused options often require more technical management, but they reduce your exposure to cloud-based attacks.

By implementing these practices, you transform your security cameras from potential vulnerabilities into the protective tools they're meant to be. Cybersecurity requires ongoing attention, but the effort invested protects both your home and your privacy.