Home security cameras are a great asset if you’re big on keeping your home and properties safe from burglars and vandals. Wireless security cameras have another edge over analog security cameras. Their footage can be streamed real-time remotely, and video recordings are backed up in the cloud. However, like every other cloud-connected device, they are still prone to malicious attacks and can be compromised with malicious intent.
In this post, we discuss some simple tips you can use to safeguard your security cameras from hackers. This will prevent your footage and live feeds from getting leaked and used by unauthorized faceless cyber criminals.
Buy Cameras from Reputable Manufacturers
It’s essential that you only buy your Wi-Fi cameras and other security gadgets from certified companies that adhere to established international standards. In addition to that, reputable manufacturers of Wi-Fi cameras employ safe practices to prevent hackers from accessing the footage stored on their servers. Whenever you go hunting for home security cameras to buy, take time to read through customer reviews available for the product. This will guide you through the pros and cons of that product before you reach for your wallet.
Use Strong Passwords
A basic step to protecting your home security cameras is to safeguard them with strong passwords. If your cameras come with default passwords, you should change them. You mustn’t reuse passwords. Rather, use unique, strong passwords for your cameras and Wi-Fi routers. This reduces the risk of hacking, denial of service attacks, and other forms of attacks that cloud-based products are vulnerable to.
Update Your Cameras’ Firmware
Firmware is the built-in software that runs your cameras and other similar devices. Just like smartphones and computers, your security cameras come with firmware, a pre-programmed software that enables them to function. Manufacturers release new updates and security patches periodically to enhance your camera’s functionalities and correct vulnerabilities. It’s possible that your camera may not be able to automatically download and install updates, therefore, it’s essential that you manually check for firmware updates by checking the “Settings” option of your camera menu.
Set Up Two-Factor Authentication
Also called two-step verification, two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your password or PIN to verify your identity. 2FA usually involves some additional particular (such as a one-time generated code delivered via a text message, phone call, or email) on a separate device to authenticate your identity before you sign-in to your account. Essentially, activating 2FA helps to protect your account from unauthorized access even if someone guesses your password or obtains it without your consent. A very useful tool that can help handle your two-factor authentication is the Google Authenticator App.
Use Firewall and Geofencing
While each type of security camera has its peculiar vulnerability, the truth remains that all types of security cameras are vulnerable to attacks. To prevent your camera from hacking, activate its built-in firewall, which monitors and controls its data exchange. Another safety measure to protect your Wi-Fi security cameras is to only connect them to routers with Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) or Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) security. This technology helps to encrypt your data and prevents unauthorized parties from intercepting the communication.
For your professional security solutions in Nigeria, contact Trivest Technologies on +234-802-230-6494 or forward a mail to contact@trivest-group.com
