In 2020, a family in Mississippi faced a horrifying situation. Their eight-year-old daughter heard a man’s voice in her bedroom, and it wasn’t her father.
A hacker had accessed their camera and was speaking to her through it, taunting her and playing music until her parents rushed in to unplug the device. The camera company later confirmed that the account had been compromised because the family was using an old, breached password.
Stories like this are disturbing, but they are not uncommon. Smart cameras and other connected devices are now very popular in homes and small businesses. For small businesses, they provide an affordable way to enhance security, whether by monitoring the front door, keeping an eye on an inventory room, or checking in after hours. However, while these devices offer reassurance, they can also create serious risks if not secured properly.
Not all cameras are created equal
Many low-cost models compromise on safety by skipping important features like encryption or regular software updates. Even well-known brands can be at risk if users do not change default settings. Hackers often look for vulnerabilities like default passwords, outdated firmware, or unsecured WiFi connections. In some instances, attackers have taken over cameras to view footage or gain further access to networks.
How to Select a Secure Camera
If you want to buy a new security camera or examine your current ones, it’s important to know what to look for. Choose well-known brands that provide regular security updates. Make sure the device encrypts footage before sending it to the cloud. Choose a model that offers two-factor authentication for logins. Whenever possible, choose cameras that allow local storage along with cloud backups.
Secure Setup is Just as Important
Of course, how you set up these devices is just as important as which ones you buy. Change the default usernames and passwords right away, and keep the firmware and apps updated to fix any known vulnerabilities quickly.
Many devices let you turn on automatic updates, which is the safest option. It’s also smart to split your network so that smart devices don’t share the same WiFi as your business systems. This way, if one device gets hacked, it doesn’t give easy access to more sensitive information. And don’t forget your router; make sure it has the strongest security settings possible so outsiders can’t get in easily.
It’s not Just Cameras
While cameras often get attention, they aren’t the only smart devices to think about. Doorbells, thermostats, and even voice assistants connect to your network. If these devices aren’t secured properly, they can become entry points for hackers.
For small businesses, the risks extend beyond just a hacker watching a video feed. It could result in the exposure of client information, financial records, or other important data. The more devices you connect, the more important it is to manage them carefully.
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Smart devices can make your life easier and your workplace safer, but only if you set them up with security in mind. A few simple steps now can stop your “smart” gadgets from becoming easy targets for hackers.
Do you want to ensure your business devices are secure? Don’t take chances. Schedule a free discovery call today, and we’ll help you review your setup before hackers get the chance.
