High-quality security coupled with constant vigilance is a powerful way to deter criminal activity in residential and commercial properties. Having a CCTV monitoring system installed is one of the most cost-effective methods to ensure that your home or business premises are monitored at all times.
Although there have been significant technological advances in recent years, CCTV surveillance remains vulnerable to attack.
In tandem with these advances, malicious hackers are constantly developing sophisticated techniques to circumvent security protocols in order to gain unlawful access to video surveillance security systems.
Also read: Top 5 Things to Consider Before Installing CCTV Cameras
Improving the level of security is the main reason for installing CCTV cameras and when the system is compromised the whole purpose of investing in an advanced surveillance system is largely defeated. Despite existing vulnerabilities, many security systems are woefully vulnerable to hacking.
To prepare better for such eventualities, you should understand the methods most commonly used by hackers to gain access to CCTV surveillance systems. Here are 3 tips you can use to prevent hackers from hacking their way into your home security or business surveillance network.
Change the Password from Default to Custom
Any potential hacker can easily gain access to your CCTV cameras by simply looking up your IP address and using engines such as shadon.io or angryip.org to obtain the specific signature information. This will allow them to try out passwords until they gain access to the entire security system.
Create a strong password using a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters – minimum 12 characters. Avoid using personal information like names or birthdates. Change passwords every 90 days for commercial installations.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Add a second verification layer to your system. Even if someone obtains your password, they’ll need a code sent to your mobile device to access your cameras. Enable this on your NVR, mobile app, and web interface.
Secure Your User ID
User ID is the next route hackers will look for. The account can be reset to grant full access to the security device including its hard drives and even full access to the entire wireless system. All they need are the email, phone number, and username used when the account was registered.
Use a unique email address specifically for your security system—not your general business email—and enable email two-factor authentication to prevent account takeover.
Once in, they can view the digital video recorder live feed, manipulate the DVR, and change personal user information, effectively locking out the user.
Secure Command Lines
Hackers can exploit the system’s ‘backdoor’ command line of code that will grant them admin-level access to the system. Many operators neglect to install the latest firmware, leaving known vulnerabilities exposed.
Enable automatic updates where available, or schedule quarterly manual checks through your NVR’s system settings menu.
Related post: 5 Reasons Why CCTV is a Must for Your Business
Keep Firmware Updated
Manufacturers regularly release security patches to fix vulnerabilities. Check for firmware updates quarterly on your cameras and NVR. Many professional systems can update automatically, eliminating this manual task.
Separate Your Camera Network
Place your security cameras on a separate network (VLAN) from your business computers and Wi-Fi. If a camera is compromised, hackers can’t reach your other systems. Professional installers configure this during setup.
Use Encrypted Connections
Ensure your system uses WPA3 for wireless cameras and HTTPS for remote viewing. Encryption prevents hackers from intercepting your video feeds. Check your router settings and camera specifications.
Warning Signs Your System May Be Hacked
Monitor for these indicators:
- Cameras moving or repositioning without your input
- LED lights flashing when you’re not accessing the system
- Unfamiliar login attempts or devices in your account
- Sudden spikes in network data usage
- Settings or passwords changed without authorisation
If you notice any of these signs, immediately change all passwords, disconnect affected cameras, and contact your security installer.
In order to protect your privacy and safety, you need to safeguard your security system by bolstering it with the critical components of security intelligence combined with constant surveillance.
Even though there is a hoard of indoor and outdoor CCTV cameras available online, it is always recommended to hire a professional security company for your CCTV camera Installation in Perth.
Contact Select Security to find out how we can help you select the best security system to ensure you are protected from potential crime and cyber threats.