Pharming is a type of phishing attack where threat actors trick users into clicking on websites that have malicious links. When users open those links, a malware is released inside their system and it is used to steal all the sensitive information. Hackers then use that information to blackmail the victims into paying ransom in exchange for the stolen information. In such a scenario, hacked cameras are emerging as the new threat.
One of the reasons that hacking of surveillance cameras is so hard to tackle is that people are actually unaware that cameras can be hacked too. So, here’s what you should know before we can take you through the different ways in which you can protect your devices from hackers.
- Cameras and every other device that is connected to the router is hackable.
- All devices on the internet are computers.
- Cameras have software just like computers and laptops have an operating system.
- Every software has bugs.
- Bugs are the vulnerabilities that hackers exploit.
So, in other words, your cameras can be easily hacked. That said, let’s take you through some other specifics on how to protect them from cyber bullies.
- Install Updates
Always remember that installing software updates released by developers is the best way to debug. So, always use the updated version of the software.
- Use a Strong Password
By password we do not mean just the password of the camera but also the password of the router to which the camera is attached.
Here’s how the password can be made strong.
- When you change the default password, make sure the next one is long (12-15 characters).
- A random password – that’s a blend of symbols, letters in uppercase and lowercase, and numbers – is preferred.
Once you make such a password, here’s how you can protect it.
- Don’t use it for any other device. Every device should have its own unique password.
- Use a password management application to save the passwords.
- Secure the Router
Once you’ve made a strong backdoor password for the router, here’s how you can use it to further secure the surveillance systems.
- Limit the number of devices that are connected to the router.
- Give limited people the authentication rights to view and change the security settings of the cameras.
Last, not the least, keep patching the router.
All in all, we hope our guide will help you in learning how to secure your surveillance cameras.
