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As the need for security has increased the usage of CCTVs in urban centers, problems like hackers exploiting these security systems also rise fast. Instead of protecting the house's privacy, these devices become tools for invasion of privacy by cybercriminals.
Various vulnerabilities can be exploited by technicians and become a considerable privacy risk for homeowners or businesses.
That's why you need to know how CCTV cameras can be compromised and how to protect yourself against such methods.
Here are 10 methods to protect your privacy from any security vulnerabilities:
1. Easy Access To Default Password
Many CCTV owners don't change the default password that the manufacturer provides. This mistake can result in your system getting easily hacked. So selecting a strong new password is the first step to protecting your CCTV systems.
Different events in the past also indicate that factory setting passwords are easy to obtain, and they can be dangerous for your privacy. Making a mistake like this can lead to easy access for hackers into your system. Hackers can activate the viruses at any given moment to take advantage of the vulnerabilities.
2. Using Unbranded Devices Can Invite Hackers
Most of the unbranded CCTV devices in the market are cheap, but these devices have many vulnerabilities which can be easily exploited during cyberattacks. Security cameras with a brand warranty have better security systems, and any problems can be fixed by calling the brand representatives (10 Secret Methods to Hack Security Cameras From Hackers).
But in the case of unbranded devices, the firmware updates don't exist, leading to more cyberattacks and hackings of unbranded CCTV devices. Finding branded systems can ensure the privacy and safety of the buyers.
3. Upgrading Firmware Is Important
Another critical aspect that CCTV owners underestimate is the vital importance of updating the firmware regularly. Hackers are always on the lookout for vulnerabilities and security flaws in the technology.
Most brands will regularly issue the latest firmware updates for the CCTV devices to protect the buyers. These updates can be crucial in providing the best security front with the latest hacking techniques. When buying any CCTV system, ensure that the manufacturer regularly includes firmware updates (Best Practices for Preventing IOT Security Camera Hacks).
4. Automated Hackings Increase Vulnerabilities
Hackers have also become more sophisticated with the latest technologies. Instead of working out everything themselves, many latest hacking methods involve automated software for conducting the hacking.
An example of this software is the Mirai software which attacks the systems and shuts them down. Such hackings increase the risk for CCTV owners as the cybercriminals can hack more designs in less time.
5. Similar Systems Have Made Attacks Easier
Many similar systems in the CCTV camera market have made hacking much more accessible. Hackers need to crack the code for one system and then get access to other systems as well.
Buying CCTV with the latest software and systems will provide better protection from any cyberattacks. Finding systems with other firewall systems can also be the solution for better security.
6. Documented Vulnerabilities Can Be A Threat
Hackers also work in communities, and many vulnerabilities are shared with other hackers. These documented vulnerabilities in any CCTV system can make it easier to be hacked.
Most cybersecurity experts suggest researching before buying CCTV equipment to be safe from any previous attacks. Any systems which have been attacked previously should be avoided for security reasons.
These flaws in the CCTV brands can otherwise be exploited easily by any hacker group.
7. Installer or Technician's Lack of Knowledge
A significant threat in CCTV camera installation can be the lack of knowledge about these aspects. Many technicians don't have the updated skills and expertise for protecting the privacy of your systems.
The wrong configuration can be a critical factor in future vulnerabilities of your system. Buyers can learn how to operate these systems and bring an added layer of protection.
DMZ configuration of the CCTV systems can be crucial for setting up your router. Only individuals with advanced knowledge of IP systems should use the DMZ configuration for their systems.
Remote viewing systems also include P2P systems, which require specific knowledge before configuring. Hiring a certified technician for installing your CCTV system will help you get the most out of your security system.
8. No Additional Security Features
Security of networks can be very crucial in CCTV camera systems. When buying a new security camera, network security should be the priority.
Hackers can easily find the code and command lines for various CCTV systems and exploit those vulnerabilities. Flaws in coding lead to the most hacks as they provide access to CCTV cameras.
Having additional security features for the CCTV network is the best way to avoid hacking incidents. Hackers can leverage any firmware problems and network access issues to hack the systems quickly.
9. Lack of Firewall and VPN Connection
Many CCTV cameras don't use VPN or firewall systems when connecting to the internet, so hackers can easily compromise them. Using a VPN connection or a firewall can help you protect against any network flaws and keep hackers at bay.
A firewall system can be a great measure to protect against the external threats affecting the CCTV systems connected online (Dzou, 2018).
These additional protection measures can help improve privacy safety when using CCTV systems.
10. Not Using Encryption
Encryption systems can be a great way to protect your remote devices and the CCTV camera from getting hacked. A robust encryption method can help protect your system from cyberattacks.
Customers who don't use a qualified end-to-end encryption system are at risk of hacking attacks and losing their privacy in any cyberattacks (Martin, 2021).
Security provided by the modern encryption methods can protect your CCTV system from cyberattacks for an extended period.
These were some of the ways hackers can exploit the vulnerabilities in the CCTV systems and what you can do to protect your privacy. Additional Security measures like firewalls, VPNs, and encryption can be a great way to avoid cyberattacks.
Using stronger passwords, better installation, and configuration can also be handy in protecting your CCTV systems.
References:
[10 secret methods] to hack security cameras from hackers. (n.d.). HighMark Security. Retrieved April 4, 2022, from https://highmarksecurity.com/how-to-hack-security-cameras/
Best Practices for preventing IOT Security Camera Hacks. (n.d.). Security Camera Warehouse. Retrieved April 4, 2022, from https://www.getscw.com/support/preventing-iot-hacks
Dzou, C. (2018, November 9). 3 Ways to Hack CCTV Cameras (and How to Prevent It from Happening to You). Verkada. Retrieved April 4, 2022, from https://www.verkada.com/blog/3-ways-to-hack-a-cctv-camera/
Martin, T. (2021, February 11). Are Your Home Security Cameras at Risk of Hacking? CNET. Retrieved April 4, 2022, from https://www.cnet.com/home/security/are-your-home-security-cameras-at-risk-of-hacking/