Are Your Smart Cameras Spying On You? What You Need to Know Before You Plug In
15 Oct 2025In 2020, a family in Mississippi had a terrifying experience. Their eight-year-old daughter heard a man’s voice coming from her bedroom—but it wasn’t her father. A hacker had accessed their Ring camera, speaking to her through the device, taunting her and playing music until the parents rushed in to unplug it. Ring later confirmed the account had been compromised because the family was reusing an old, breached password.
Stories like this are unsettling, but they’re not uncommon. Smart cameras and other connected devices are now popular in homes and small businesses alike. For small businesses, they’re an affordable way to add an extra layer of protection—whether it’s monitoring the front door, keeping an eye on an inventory room, or checking in after hours. But while these devices bring peace of mind, they can also create serious risks if they’re not properly secured.
Not All Cameras Are Created Equal
Low-cost models often cut corners on security, skipping safeguards like encryption or regular software updates. Even well-known brands can be vulnerable if default settings are left unchanged. Hackers target weak spots such as default passwords, outdated firmware, or unsecured WiFi connections. In some cases, compromised cameras have been used to view footage or gain deeper access to networks.
Choosing the Right Device
When buying a new camera or reviewing the ones you already have, stick with reputable brands that provide regular security updates. Look for:
Encryption for footage before it’s sent to the cloud
Two-factor authentication for logins
Options for local storage in addition to cloud backups
Setting Up Devices Safely
How you configure your devices is just as important as which ones you choose.
Change default usernames and passwords immediately Keep firmware and apps up to date; enable automatic updates where possible Segment your network so smart devices aren’t on the same WiFi as business systems Secure your router with the strongest settings available
Other Smart Devices Matter Too
It’s not just cameras. Doorbells, thermostats, and voice assistants also connect to your network. If they’re not properly secured, they can become back doors into your business. For small businesses, this could mean exposure of client information, financial records, or other sensitive data. The more devices you connect, the more important it is to manage them carefully.
Make Your Smart Devices Work for You—Not Hackers
Smart devices can make your life easier and your workplace safer, but only when security is a priority. A few proactive steps now can prevent your “smart” gadgets from becoming easy targets for hackers.
Call us today on 08 8922 0050 to review your business devices and make sure they’re properly secured before someone else does it for you.
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