With video surveillance systems becoming ubiquitous, IP-connected security cameras provide an extra set of eyes on your home, business, and loved ones. However, as with any device linked to the internet, internet protocol (IP) cameras are vulnerable to hacking. A compromised security camera could expose your private activities or jeopardize your family‘s safety and privacy.
Fortunately, there are usually signs indicating your camera may have been hacked. Recognizing these signs allows you to take prompt action to secure your devices and networks from intruders.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover:
- How hackers gain access to IP security cameras
- The telltale signs your camera has been breached
- Expert tips to prevent security camera hacks
- Steps to take if you suspect your camera was compromised
- FAQs on security camera cyber attacks
As a cloud data security expert with over a decade of experience, I‘ve consulted with both homes and businesses to help them protect their networks. This guide provides my professional insight into properly securing your video surveillance systems.
Contents
How Hackers Infiltrate IP Security Cameras
Hackers use a variety of techniques to access IP camera video feeds without authorization. Here are some of the most common methods cybercriminals employ:
Guessing Weak Default Passwords
The easiest way for an attacker to compromise a security camera is by using the default password set by the manufacturer. A shocking study by security firm Bitdefender found 90% of internet-connected security cameras use easy-to-crack default passwords like "admin", "123456", or "password".
With access to admin credentials, a hacker can fully control your cameras. They can view and record footage, track your activities, or even swivel the camera to film private areas.
Exploiting Known Software Vulnerabilities
Like any software, IP camera firmware contains bugs and security flaws hackers can exploit. Manufacturers issue patches and firmware updates to address discovered vulnerabilities.
But many users fail to properly update camera software, leaving them open to attacks. The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) maintains a public list of hundreds of known vulnerabilities across major security camera brands like Axis, Dahua, and Hikvision.
Intercepting Unencrypted Video Feeds
On unsecured networks, video streams can be intercepted as they travel between the camera and your viewing device. Without encryption, a hacker nearby can view footage as it crosses the airwaves.
Wi-Fi networks are especially vulnerable to these "man-in-the-middle" attacks. Using encryption prevents outsiders from accessing your video feeds.
Phishing for Login Credentials
Through phishing emails and fake login pages, hackers trick users into revealing their account usernames and passwords. Avoid entering credentials anywhere besides your camera provider‘s official mobile app or website.
A 2022 study by Barracuda Networks found 77% of spear phishing attacks targeted account credentials stored in people‘s video surveillance systems.
Gaining Physical Access to the Camera
With hands-on access to your cameras, an intruder can manually reconfigure them or insert hacking devices that intercept video footage before it reaches your networked recorder or app.
Brute Force Password Cracking Attacks
Hackers can launch programs that systematically try thousands of username and password combinations until one works. Using strong passwords significantly impedes these brute force cracking attempts.
Per the 2021 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report, brute force tactics accounted for 85% of security camera breaches.
6 Signs Your IP Camera May Be Hacked
While you may not notice right away, there are signs that can indicate your camera has been compromised:
1. Camera Moves Unexpectedly
If your stationary camera suddenly pans, tilts or zooms without you controlling it, this aberrant motion likely signifies someone else accessed and is controlling your camera.
2. Status Light Activates Randomly
Many IP cameras have LED status lights that illuminate when active. If the light turns on unexpectedly, an unauthorized viewer may be surveilling through your camera.
3. Strange Noises From the Camera
Some hackers take advantage of cameras with two-way audio to harass homeowners. Unexplained sounds like voices, music or interference coming from your camera may indicate a breach.
4. Unknown Users in Login History
Legitimate access to your camera shows up in your account‘s login history. Unrecognized users in the log likely indicate outsider access.
5. Correct Password Stops Working
If your proper camera password suddenly fails, the system settings, including account passwords, may have been altered by hackers.
6. Sudden Spike in Data Usage
A compromised camera can consume immense amounts of data streaming unauthorized video feeds. Unusual surges in data usage, network delays or cellular data overages likely signify trouble.
Expert Tips to Prevent Your Camera From Being Hacked
While no system is completely immune from hacking, you can minimize the likelihood of a camera intrusion by layering security:
Use Long, Complex Unique Passwords
Avoid common, guessable passwords. Create a unique 12+ character password with upper and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols for every internet-connected device.
Tip: Use a password manager app to generate and store strong passwords.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Adding secondary login requirements like one-time codes or security questions blocks access with stolen credentials alone.
Over 90% of successful security camera breaches involved compromised passwords without 2FA enabled, per a Comparitech study.
Frequently Update Firmware
Manufacturers issue firmware patches to fix vulnerabilities. Set cameras to auto-update or manually check for new firmware every 1-2 months.
Unpatched firmware that is months out of date is an open invitation for attackers.
Limit Remote Access to Your Cameras
Configure your camera‘s settings to only allow connections from your specific IP address, trusted devices, or within your home network boundary.
Connect Cameras to Encrypted Networks Only
Keep cameras on WPA2 encrypted Wi-Fi networks to control access. Never connect cameras or security systems directly to public networks.
Use a virtual private network (VPN) for an added layer of encryption if accessing your camera over the internet.
Physically Secure and Position Cameras
Place cameras high up and out of reach to prevent tampering. Avoid aiming cameras at public spaces where feeds can be intercepted.
What to Do If Your Camera Gets Hacked
If you confirm your camera has been compromised, prompt action is required:
Step 1: Unplug Camera and Disable Accounts
Physically unplug the camera to sever the hacker‘s connection. Temporarily disable your camera accounts to block further unauthorized access.
Step 2: Reset All Passwords
Change passwords for camera accounts, Wi-Fi network, related apps and any other devices on the same network. Use new strong unique passwords for each.
Step 3: Update Firmware to Latest Version
Download and install the newest camera firmware update to close any vulnerabilities that were exploited.
Step 4: Check Network for Malware
Scan all computers, devices and apps on your network for malware or viruses that may have been introduced during the breach.
Step 5: Strengthen Network Security
On your home router or business firewall, enable the strongest protocols like WPA2 or WPA3 wireless encryption, activate the firewall, disable remote administrative access, and turn on advanced threat monitoring.
Step 6: Contact the Camera Manufacturer
Your camera vendor may provide tools to detect malware, investigate the breach and prevent future hacks. Follow their guidance to fully remove hackers and restore security.
Step 7: Monitor Accounts Closely
Watch vigilantly for suspicious login attempts, apps accessing your camera or any other shady activity. Reset passwords immediately if unauthorized access recurs.
Security Camera Hack Statistics, Data and Trends
- The number of hacked security cameras rose by 50% between 2018 and 2019, according to research by CCTV Camera Pros
- 90% of security cameras still use default passwords that are publicly available online, found by Bitdefender in 2019
- Verizon‘s 2021 forensic analysis found 85% of security camera breaches involved brute force password attacks
- Barracuda Networks detected 77% of spear phishing attacks in 2022 targeted video surveillance credentials
- Comparitech estimates over 90% of security camera breaches would have been stopped by enabling two-factor authentication
The risk of consumers having their security cameras and smart home devices hacked will only increase as internet-connected gadgets proliferate. But following cybersecurity best practices substantially reduces your chances of being victimized.
FAQs About Compromised Security Cameras
Can outdoor security cameras be hacked?
Yes, outdoor security cameras remain vulnerable to hacking, particularly through their wireless connectivity. Use strong unique Wi-Fi passwords, limit your network‘s range, and keep firmware patched.
How often do security camera hacks happen?
As consumer security camera usage grows exponentially, related hacks are also increasing. However, basic security precautions like using 2FA and avoiding default passwords make you an unattractive target.
What are signs your security camera was hacked?
Indicators like unexplained camera motion, flashing status lights, unknown user logins, sudden data usage spikes or password failures may mean your camera was compromised. But breaches can be subtle, so precautions are key.
Can my phone‘s camera be hacked?
It is highly unlikely for hackers to access your smartphone‘s camera unless you click on a malicious link. Keep phones updated, avoid sketchy apps, use two-factor authentication and cover the lens when not in use.
Can hackers watch you through hacked security cameras?
If hackers infiltrate your wired or wireless home security cameras, they could potentially view and record footage from the cameras. Proper network security minimizes this threat dramatically.
Conclusion
While security camera hacks may make headlines, they remain relatively rare with proper safeguards in place. There are usually signs when your video feeds have been breached, so stay alert to any suspicious camera activity. Taking steps to properly configure and update your devices while securing your Wi-Fi network provides peace of mind your home and family are kept private.
