October 20, 2025
In 2020, a Mississippi family experienced a terrifying breach when their eight-year-old daughter heard a stranger's voice coming through their Ring camera — a hacker had accessed the device and was taunting her until the parents hurriedly unplugged it. Ring later revealed the intruder gained entry because the family reused an old, compromised password.
Unfortunately, incidents like this are more common than you might think. Smart cameras and connected devices have surged in popularity among homeowners and small businesses, offering affordable security solutions—whether monitoring your front entrance, safeguarding inventory, or overseeing your premises after hours. However, while these gadgets provide reassurance, they can also expose you to significant risks if not properly protected.
Not all security cameras offer the same level of protection. Many budget-friendly options neglect essential safeguards such as encryption and timely software updates. Even well-known brands can leave users vulnerable if default settings remain unchanged. Hackers often exploit weak points like default passwords, outdated firmware, and unsecured Wi-Fi networks. In some alarming cases, attackers have commandeered cameras to spy on footage or infiltrate networks.
If you're shopping for a new camera or evaluating your current setup, prioritize trusted brands that offer ongoing security patches. Opt for devices that encrypt video data before uploading it to the cloud and support two-factor authentication for user accounts. Whenever possible, select models that provide local storage options alongside cloud backups.
Beyond choosing the right hardware, how you configure these devices is critical. Immediately reset default usernames and passwords, keep firmware and apps up to date to close known vulnerabilities, and enable automatic updates when available—this is by far the safest route. Consider isolating smart devices on a separate network from your main business systems to limit exposure if one device is compromised. Don't overlook your router—ensure it's secured with strong settings to block unauthorized entry.
Remember, cameras aren't the only smart tech that warrants attention. Doorbells, thermostats, and voice assistants also connect through your network and can serve as entry points for cyber intrusions if unprotected. For small businesses, this risk extends beyond video feeds—it could jeopardize client data, financial information, or company secrets. As you add more connected devices, managing their security becomes essential.
Smart technology can streamline operations and enhance safety, but only when configured with robust security in mind. Taking these proactive steps now will defend your devices from becoming easy targets for hackers.
Want to ensure your business technology is fully protected? Don't leave your security to chance. Click here or call us at 608-416-2400 to arrange a free 10-Minute Discovery Call. We'll help you assess and secure your setup before cybercriminals attempt to breach it.
