Can Home Security Cameras and Systems Be Hacked?

Security cameras are meant to offer protection, so the last thing you want is someone hacking your feeds. Keep reading to learn how security cameras can be hacked and what you can do to secure your system.

Key Takeaways

• If the system network or your account isn’t secured, your cameras can be hacked
• Hackers typically use leaked or stolen login info to hack your system
• Use our three tips to secure your account against hackers

Can home WiFi cameras be hacked?

Unfortunately, yes. If your system is connected to the internet, it may be vulnerable to hackers. And, though they are more secure than wireless cameras, even wired systems and cameras can be hacked. 

Is it hard to hack security cameras?

Depending on the way your security company has created your system and network, hackers may struggle to gain access to it. It’s always important to do your research and make sure the company invests in strong encryption and security.

Your security cameras might be also easier to hack if you haven’t chosen a strong password or if your account information has been leaked. 

How do security cameras get hacked?

There are several ways hackers can gain access to your camera feeds, including:

• Gaining account information – If your account information is leaked or you are using the same password that was leaked from another source, hackers can find this info online and use it to break into your account. 
• Guessing the password – Unfortunately, many people use weak passwords that hackers can easily guess. Others forget to change the generic factory password on their devices, leaving themselves vulnerable.
• Sending phishing messages – The hacker may find your email or phone number and send a fake message asking you to log into your account. Once you enter your information on the fake website, the hacker has your info.

Once logged into your account, hackers can view camera feeds, adjust camera angles, change your security settings, and possibly even speak through the device. To protect your home and your family, use the tips below to strengthen your security system.

How to keep your home security cameras safe

1. Use a secure password

This is the first and most important thing to do to keep your system secure. A good password should be:

• Unique to this account – Don’t reuse passwords that you have used for other accounts or devices, even if you’ve changed or added a few characters.
• Long and hard to guess – Create a password with a variety of characters, numbers, symbols, and both upper and lower case letters.
• Free of personal info – Hackers can find information such as birthdates, names, and other personal details online. If you are afraid you won’t remember the password, use a password manager or write it down somewhere safe.

If you haven’t yet, you should also make sure none of your devices use the default factory password.

2. Keep your system updated

Companies often release new updates that fix security issues, so keep your system up to date.

3. Choose your provider wisely

Some companies don’t invest in security, putting you at risk. Always choose a provider that makes security a priority, such as ADT, Vivint, or Frontpoint.