For security, CCTV is used. But what to do if the video surveillance system is at risk of criminal activity? The technology has advanced enough to break into someone’s private property through a lens alone. It is child’s play for some mastermind criminals to access just any place, whether public or private. For this reason, we are discussing how to secure your cameras against security breaches and protect your business from loss of millions. We are exploring how to secure you 24/7 video monitoring service and keep your business intact.
How Are Cameras At Risk Of Cyberattacks
Cameras can be one of the easiest ways to gain access to a small business. Here, we take a look at how that is possible.
Weak Password
The one thing that puts surveillance systems at risk of cyberattacks or other criminal activity is not changing the default passwords. Since all defaults are the same, it is more important to change the password first when the installation leaves your door, and someone else enters your house through the camera.
Outdated Software And Firmware
Older versions of technologies can result in criminals accessing our cameras easily. There are possible bugs in the previous versions which the attackers can use to gain access to your cameras.
Camera Running On Public Network
If your cameras are connected to a public network, this makes them an easy target for attacks.
Malware Attacks
Vulnerable cameras can be a target of malware that forms botnets that are used for large-scale cyberattacks.
Physical Access To Building
Cyber attackers can gain access to the live camera streaming and to know about the open and unsecured entry physical entry points of the building, and to know about the valuables and their location in the building.
Insider Threats
Oftentimes, there is internal staff involved in thefts and cyberattacks. It can also be unintentional if the staff isn’t trained enough in security technology. This can result in physical damage to property or assets, causing a loss of large amounts to the business.
It can cause operational disruption, such as restocking, and orders can get delayed. which can cause delays in order fulfillment, resulting in damage to the reputation of the business.
Use Of Mechanized Resources
Cyber criminals can make use of mechanized technology to physically access premises that traditionally required pedestrian attempts. They can use drones to look for open entries to the physical premise with weak or no security. These mechanized resources can go unnoticed by the common public or even the security cameras.
The attackers also use heavy machinery or vehicles to ram into the fence or the boundary of the building, resulting in severe damage to the property and even individuals inside. This gives space for intrusion. This damage can pose a high cost in repairs.
This opens the way for further intrusion. Criminals can use this incident as a distraction to the public and the security to access the actual place, such as the areas where the assets and valuable goods are stored on the perimeter.
How to Secure Your Cameras: Tips For 2025
Change the Credentials
When you have your cameras installed, change the default username and password because all default credentials are the same. This is why cybercriminals are able to hack into security systems. Follow the password conventions.
Update Firmware
Outdated firmware is the biggest threat to surveillance systems. To keep it updated, visit the website of your camera’s company and look for any updates. For a better option, look for automatic updates in your camera system and switch on the option if there is one.
Do Not Allow Port Forwarding
Port forwarding is like an open door to your network. Do not allow it. If you have to, then encrypt the connections between devices. Use the app provided by the manufacturer and make sure to secure it with difficult passwords.
If you absolutely have to use port forwarding, then only allow the IP addresses that you recognise.
Use Two-Factor Authentication
Enable the 2-factor authentication, which includes verifying your log in via email. This reduces the risk of criminals intruding on your privacy.
Signing In Logs
Keep a regular check on the logs of your cameras being accessed. There are surveillance systems that record the login information, such as IP address, device type, and the number of times the cameras were accessed.
Conclusion
Cameras are built for security, but keeping the cameras secure requires taking security measures as well. There are many ways in which cyber criminals can hack into surveillance systems, as we saw in this blog post. Putting extra layers of security onto your surveillance system is just as necessary as putting up the video surveillance system.
FAQs
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Why Are Small Businesses A Common Target Of Security Breaches?
A: Because they cannot afford to apply advanced security measures, which makes it easy for cyber criminals to access them.
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How Are CCTV Systems At Risk Of Cyberattacks?
A: Weak passwords, outdated software or firmware, cameras connected to a public network for remote viewing, and insider involvement in attacks are some of the open doors through which cyber attackers can get into the surveillance systems.
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What Are The Concerns Related To CCTV?
A: Security breach and privacy-related concerns. Cyber attackers can gain access to a video surveillance system and learn about the place they want to target to commit crimes.
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Can I See My Cameras Remotely?
A: Yes, you can access your cameras remotely using the app given by the camera company you have installed.
