Can Home Security Cameras Be Hacked? Here’s What You Need to Know

Home security cameras have become a popular way to protect homes and loved ones. With technological advancements, many homeowners rely on smart cameras for remote monitoring and added security. However, as these devices connect to the internet, they also come with risks. 

Can home security cameras be hacked? 

Let’s explore how security cameras get hacked, real-world examples, and the best ways to keep your system secure.  

Are Home Security Cameras Vulnerable to Hacking?

Home security cameras are often hacked, especially if they are connected to the internet. Since most modern cameras offer remote access, hackers can try to break into them if proper security measures aren’t in place. 

Here are several ways cybercriminals can compromise home security cameras.

• Many security cameras come with factory-set usernames and passwords. If users don’t change them, hackers can easily guess them or find them in online databases.

• Using simple or repeated passwords across multiple devices increases the risk of hacking. Cybercriminals use brute force attacks to guess weak passwords.

• If your home Wi-Fi network is not properly secured, hackers can infiltrate it and gain access to connected devices, including security cameras.

• Manufacturers release security updates to fix vulnerabilities. If your camera software is outdated, it may have known security flaws that hackers can exploit.

• Without an extra layer of security, anyone with your credentials can log in and access your camera feed.

Examples of Security Camera Hacks and How They Happened

Here are some real-world examples of security camera hacks and how they happened.

1. Verkada Security Breach (2021)

In 2021, hackers gained access to the security system of a large surveillance company, exposing live footage from nearly 150,000 cameras. These cameras were installed in hospitals, police stations, prisons, and major corporations. The breach raised serious concerns about how easily security cameras can be compromised.

This hack happened because the attackers found login credentials online and used them to enter the company’s system. Once inside, they were able to view live feeds, control the cameras, and access sensitive areas. 

2. TRENDnet Camera Exposure (2012)

A major vulnerability in TRENDnet’s security cameras was discovered in 2012, allowing anyone to watch live video feeds without needing a password. Around 700 cameras were affected, exposing private footage from homes and businesses.

The issue occurred because of a flaw in the camera’s software. The manufacturer had not properly secured the video feeds, making them accessible to anyone who knew the correct web link. This case highlighted the risks of poorly designed security systems and the importance of regularly updating camera software.

3. Ecovacs Deebot Robot Vacuum Hijacking (2024)

In 2024, several owners of the Ecovacs Deebot X2 robot vacuum were shocked when their devices started speaking offensive language and making inappropriate comments on their own. These smart vacuums were hijacked by hackers who took full control of the devices. Some users even reported that the vacuums moved unpredictably around their homes as if being controlled remotely.

The root cause of this security breach was the use of weak, four-digit PIN codes for device access. Hackers exploited this by using brute-force attacks, repeatedly guessing PIN combinations until they gained entry. Once inside, they could control the vacuum’s camera, microphone, and movement, turning an everyday household device into a privacy threat.

This case highlighted the growing risks of smart home devices being hacked and the importance of stronger security measures.

How to Secure Your Security Cameras

Here’s how to keep your cameras safe from cyber threats.

Use Cameras with Strong Encryption 

Many low-cost security cameras don’t encrypt your video feeds, which makes it easier for hackers to intercept them. To prevent unauthorized access, choose cameras that offer end-to-end encryption (E2EE). This means even if someone intercepts your footage, they won’t be able to view it.

Here’s how to implement it.

• Buy security cameras from reputable brands that clearly state they use encryption.
• Check if your camera offers AES-256 encryption (a military-grade encryption standard).
• If cloud storage is used, ensure it encrypts data both during transmission and when stored.

Set Up a Separate Wi-Fi Network for Your Cameras (IoT Network)

Most people connect their security cameras to the same Wi-Fi network they use for their phones, laptops, and smart TVs. This is risky because if one device gets hacked, all devices on the network could be compromised.

Here’s how to implement it.

• Create a separate guest Wi-Fi network for your security cameras and other smart devices.
• Use a router with VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) support to isolate your cameras from personal devices.
• Name the network something generic and unidentifiable (e.g., avoid names like “HomeSecurityWiFi”).

Disable Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) and Port Forwarding

Many security cameras automatically open ports on your router using a feature called Universal Plug and Play (UPnP). While UPnP makes setup easier, it also makes it easier for hackers to find your camera on the internet.

Here’s how to implement it. 

• Log into your router settings and disable UPnP.
• Avoid using port forwarding, which can expose your camera to the public internet.
• Instead, use a secure VPN or cloud-based access for remote viewing.

Use a Firewall to Block Unwanted Traffic

Your home router acts as the first line of defense. But it can be made even stronger by enabling a firewall to block unauthorized traffic from reaching your security cameras.

Here’s how to implement it. 

• Log into your router’s admin panel and turn on the built-in firewall.
• If available, enable intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) to block malicious traffic.
• If your camera has remote access enabled, set firewall rules to only allow access from specific IP addresses (e.g., your phone).

Regularly Review Access Logs and IP Whitelisting

Most high-quality security cameras keep logs of login attempts and show which devices accessed them. Checking these logs regularly can help you detect unauthorized access before it becomes a serious threat.

Here’s how to implement it. 

• Log into your camera’s admin panel at least once a week to review access history.
• Look for suspicious logins from unknown locations—this could mean someone is trying to hack your camera.
• If available, use IP whitelisting, which limits access to only trusted devices or networks.

Wrapping Up

Security cameras are meant to keep us safe. But if they’re not properly secured, they can do more harm than good. Hackers are always looking for ways to break into weak systems, and once they gain access, they can spy on you, steal personal data, or even take control of your devices.

But if you want real security, set up a separate Wi-Fi network for your cameras, turn off risky features like UPnP, and use a VPN for remote access instead of relying on public cloud services.

A little effort now can prevent major problems later. So take the time to secure your cameras properly, and rest easy knowing your home and privacy are truly protected.

FAQs

How can I tell if my security camera has been hacked?

Signs of a hacked security camera include unusual movements, strange noises, or unfamiliar login activity. If you notice your camera moving on its own, settings being changed, or unknown devices accessing your account, it may be compromised. Also, check for increased data usage, as hackers may be streaming footage.

Can wired security cameras be hacked?

Yes, but wired cameras are generally harder to hack than wireless ones because they don’t rely on Wi-Fi. However, if they are connected to an online network or cloud storage, they can still be vulnerable to cyberattacks. Keeping the software updated and securing login credentials helps minimize risks.

Are cloud-stored security camera recordings safe?

Cloud storage is secure if the provider offers strong encryption and cybersecurity measures. However, data breaches can happen, so choose a trusted cloud service, enable two-factor authentication, and regularly review account activity to ensure your recordings stay private.

What should I do if my security camera is hacked?

Immediately disconnect the camera from the internet, change all passwords, and update the firmware. Check for unknown devices connected to your account and remove them. If needed, reset the camera to factory settings and contact the manufacturer for further guidance on securing your system.

What type of security camera is the safest?

Security cameras with local storage, strong encryption, and no remote access options are the safest. Wired cameras tend to be more secure than wireless ones, and those with two-factor authentication and regular software updates offer better protection against hacking attempts.