How to Keep Your Home Security Cameras Safe

One of the best and the most common solutions to improve your home security is installing CCTV cameras throughout your premises. CCTV cameras usually connect to the internet via Wi-Fi. So, you can receive alerts, record footage and watch a camera feed anytime anywhere.

Ironically these security cameras may be a source of potential damage as unauthorized users can access your CCTV feed, putting your home security and privacy at risk. Any device, including a Wi-Fi security camera, connected to the internet is vulnerable and can be hacked.

It is worth noticing that wired cameras and cameras with local storage are less vulnerable than Wi-Fi security cameras with cloud-based storage. Nevertheless, all types of cameras can be hacked.

Here are some measures you can take to keep your security cameras safe:

Secure your Wi-Fi

Protect your WiFi-connected CCTV cameras and other devices by using WPA2 or WPA encryption. Moreover, you can also set a stronger password for your home router, update the default network name, and turn off guest networking.

Set strong passwords

It sounds obvious. Nonetheless, most people do not change the default password when setting up the security system. The more complex password you use, the better. Combine both upper and lower cases letters, numbers and symbols to create the safest password.

Consider using a password manager. It generates strong passwords, and you do not need to remember them as the manager stores them in an encrypted place.

Change passwords regularly

Another way to secure your connection is to change your passwords if you any of the following happens:

• security breach alert
• someone has attempted to use your account
• unauthorized software (malware) on your device
• you logged in using unsecured public Wi-Fi hotspot or a public computer

Isolate your CCTV cameras

Placing your surveillance cameras on their network means that a hacker will not be able to access any of your other devices in case the cameras are compromised.

Enable two-factor authentication

Two-step verification is a security measure. It helps verify your identity by using an additional security procedure (in addition to the password). It usually involves a one-time generated code sent to your mobile device. Then you have to enter this code to access your account. The advantage of two-factor authentication is that nobody will access your account even if they guessed or somehow obtained the password.

Turn off remote monitoring

Many CCTV cameras support remote monitoring. It allows viewing your home through an app when you are not at home. It is an appealing feature. However, the app or a website you use for remote access may expose your security system to hackers. If you are worried that it can happen, consider turning off remote viewing when you aren’t using it.

Update your camera’s firmware

Home security camera manufacturers regularly update the firmware to enhance product performance and fix bugs. Often these fixes can solve security flaws, so make sure to use the most recent update.

Purchase your cameras from a reliable seller

There are many security camera providers and vendors these days. Do your research beforehand to ensure you’ve chosen a trustworthy that suggests excellent customer service.

All CCTV cameras are vulnerable. However, you can take appropriate precautions to mitigate the risks following enhanced security measures discussed in this article.