Home security cameras have become the guardians of households, quietly watching over homes, deterring threats, and offering peace of mind. But what happens when the tools meant to protect us become the target?
As more people invest in residential home security systems, hackers see them as backdoors into our personal lives. Gaining access to camera footage is more than just a tech issue; it is a privacy breach and a reminder that digital security is now as important as locking your front door.
Why Hackers Are Targeting Home Security Cameras
To homeowners, security cameras allow them to monitor unusual activity and potential threats around their property. For hackers, cameras are the easiest way to peer into the lives of their victims.
Cybercriminals will target security cameras because they offer access to household information, including daily activities, locations of valuables, and when the residents are away. Burglars may use this to determine when to break into a home. Additionally, hackers might use the video feed for blackmailing, stalking, and identity theft.
Security cameras are also hacked for swatting, a form of criminal harassment where emergency services are deceived into sending police or SWAT to another person’s location. One such case is that of a Wisconsin man who went on a “swatting spree” after accessing home security door cameras and using them to livestream the events on social media.
Security Camera Attack Vectors
Home security cameras are designed to safeguard homes from intruders, but these systems often cannot protect themselves. The common ways cybercriminals hack into camera footage are as follows:
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Outdated Firmware
One of the main reasons why hackers target residential cameras is that many run on outdated firmware. Research found that 68.4 percent, or almost 7 out of 10, of cameras run on old firmware, making them easier for hackers to exploit.
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Authentication Weaknesses
Cameras connected to the Internet, or Internet of Things (IoT) cameras, are highly susceptible to cyberattacks due to insecure passwords. A whopping 60 percent of Americans reuse the same passwords, including in their home security in Nashville, which exposes systems to further vulnerabilities. It is estimated that 13 percent of IoT vulnerabilities were found in digital video recorders.
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Application Vulnerabilities
Hackers might use cross-site scripting (XSS) to inject malicious scripts into the application. They might also utilize cross-site request forgery (CSRF) to send unintended system requests. In some cases, hackers will brute force their way into the network by guessing passwords.
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Network Exposure
Hackers can use unencrypted communication, such as through the IP network, to access the video feed in transit. They may also exploit protocol vulnerabilities to access footage.
Securing Networks and Devices
Strengthening your home security camera system should be your top priority. The following are the best steps for keeping your security cameras safe and sound:
Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Using default admin passwords or simple codes will put your cameras at significant risk of a breach. Instead of settling with birthdays or 123456, use complex passwords for your Wi-Fi router and surveillance network. Combining lowercase and uppercase letters with numbers and special characters makes it more robust. You should also change your password every few months.
Secure Your Wi-Fi Network
Hackers will use your home’s Wi-Fi to access IoT cameras. To avoid this, secure your network with Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3) encryption, turn off Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS), and hide the Service Set Identifier (SSID). We also recommend creating a separate guest network for visitors on smart devices.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) adds another layer of protection to your residential security cameras. 2FA requires users to verify their identity before granting access, whether by sending a unique code or scanning biometrics. You can turn on 2FA in some systems through the app.
Keep Firmware Up-to-Date
Hackers are always looking for new loopholes around security systems, so it is best to stay updated on the latest patch notes. Manufacturers regularly release updates to fix security holes, so always check your devices and turn on automatic updates if possible.
Best Practices for Maximum Camera Security
Many security concerns for home security camera systems can be avoided. Most of the time, it all starts with the camera you picked and how you install and use it in your home. Consider doing the following:
Avoid Buying Knock-Off Cameras
Many stores are selling cheap, off-brand security cameras that claim to be as efficient for a reasonable price. Always remember that quality matters more than the price when purchasing security tools. Never obtain security cameras from unknown brands, blatant knock-offs, or banned electronic companies like ZTE and Huawei.
Opt for Professional Installation
Hackers are increasingly targeting residential surveillance systems, highlighting the importance of protective measures. A primary concern of modern security cameras is their constant internet connectivity, which exposes them to ongoing hacker attempts.
Working with a professional camera installer can minimize vulnerabilities. They have vast knowledge of various security systems and their software, the best steps for securing them, and how to deter hackers.
Limit Access and Monitor Activity
Be selective about who can view and access camera footage. Set up user accounts with specific permissions and regularly review access logs to spot suspicious activity. Unusual log-in times or unknown devices may be signs of a hacking attempt.
Be Aware of Threat and Educate the Family
From using phishing attempts to snatch passwords to spamming DDoS attacks, hackers will do anything to intrude on residential camera networks. Ensure you know how hackers break into security systems, and help your family stay well-informed of these threats and how to avoid them.
Smart Security Isn’t Smart Until It’s Secured
When protecting your home from threats, you should focus on the physical aspect and keep the doors locked on the digital side. The efficiency of your residential security is only as good as your ability to monitor and safeguard yourself from potential cyberattacks.
Don’t leave your home security system’s integrity to chance; allow us at Unlimited Security to help you find the right solution for your security needs. For residential security, we offer wireless options, technologically advanced units, two-way voice monitoring, latchkey services, and home alarm systems Nashville.
Our commitment to household safety is evident in our dedication to ensuring your residential cameras are functional and fortified against cyber threats. Discover why Unlimited Security is named one of the best local security companies by booking an appointment with us today!