Home security cameras are becoming increasingly popular as people seek to protect their homes and loved ones. However, recent reports have shown that these cameras are not immune to cyber attacks. In Singapore, at least 50,000 home security cameras have been hacked, and personal footage has been stolen and shared online, including on pornographic websites[1][3][4][5]. This is a concerning issue as it not only violates people's privacy but also puts their safety at risk. In this blog, we will discuss the ways in which home security cameras can be hacked, the signs that your camera has been hacked, and the steps you can take to prevent your camera from being hacked.
### How can home security cameras be hacked?
Hackers can gain access to home security cameras in several ways. One of the most common ways is through weak passwords. Many people do not change the default password of their cameras, which makes it easy for hackers to guess the password and gain access to the camera[1][3]. Another way is through phishing emails. Hackers can send emails that appear to be from the camera manufacturer, asking users to click on a link and enter their login credentials. Once the user enters their credentials, the hacker can gain access to the camera[1]. Additionally, some cameras have vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers. For example, in 2019, it was reported that Ring home security cameras had a vulnerability that allowed hackers to gain access to the camera[2].
### Signs that your security camera has been hacked
It can be difficult to tell if your security camera has been hacked, but there are some signs to look out for[6]:
Strange sounds or unfamiliar voices coming from the camera.
The camera is moving strangely, panning or rotating without any input from the user.
The camera's LED light is blinking or flashing when it shouldn't be.
The camera is not responding to commands or is responding slowly.
The camera's settings have been changed without the user's knowledge.
If you notice any of these signs, it is possible that your camera has been hacked.
### Steps to prevent your security camera from being hacked
There are several steps you can take to prevent your security camera from being hacked[1][3][6]:
Change the default password of the camera to a strong and unique one.
Keep the camera's firmware up to date.
Disable remote access to the camera if it is not needed.
Use a strong Wi-Fi password and enable WPA2 encryption.
Use a virtual private network (VPN) to access the camera remotely.
Regularly check the camera's logs for any suspicious activity.
It is also important to avoid pointing the camera towards private rooms and to keep it pointed towards entryways. This can help prevent any potential invasion of privacy.
## Conclusion
Home security cameras are a useful tool for protecting your home and loved ones, but they are not immune to cyber attacks. Hackers can gain access to cameras through weak passwords, phishing emails, and vulnerabilities in the camera's software. It is important to take steps to prevent your camera from being hacked, such as changing the default password, keeping the firmware up to date, and disabling remote access if it is not needed. If you suspect that your camera has been hacked, look out for signs such as strange sounds or movements, and take action immediately. By taking these steps, you can help protect your privacy and ensure the safety of your home and loved ones.
Citations:
[1] https://mothership.sg/2020/10/security-camera-hack-protection-explainer/
[2] https://www.nytimes.com/2019/12/15/us/Hacked-ring-home-security-cameras.html
[4] https://cisomag.com/50000-singapore-home-cams-hacked/amp/
[5] https://theindependent.sg/stolen-footage-from-50000-hacked-spore-home-cameras-sold-on-porn-sites/
[6] https://www.komando.com/safety-security-reviews/signs-your-security-camera-was-hacked/843951/