Are Your Smart Cameras Spying On You? Here’s What to Know Before Plugging Them In

Because no one wants a hacker DJing in their kid’s bedroom.

In 2020, a family in Mississippi got a terrifying surprise: their 8-year-old daughter heard a strange man talking to her from the Ring camera in her room. He wasn’t just talking—he was taunting her and blasting music. The parents rushed in and yanked the plug. Turns out, a hacker had gotten in using an old, reused password. Yikes.

Unfortunately, this isn’t just a spooky one-off. Smart cameras—and other gadgets that connect to the internet—are everywhere these days. For small businesses, they’re an affordable way to keep an eye on things like the front door, stock rooms, or even just check in after hours.

But here’s the catch: if these gadgets aren’t set up right, they can turn from security devices into security risks.

Not All Smart Cameras Are... Well, Smart

Some low-cost camera models skip out on basic safety stuff—like encryption or software updates. Even the fancy brands can be risky if you never change the default settings.

Hackers love easy targets like:

• Default passwords (“admin123” isn’t exactly Fort Knox)
• Outdated software
• Weak WiFi settings

Once inside, they can do more than just snoop—they might gain access to your entire network.

Shopping For a Camera? Don’t Just Pick the Shiniest One

Before you buy, check for these features:

• Security updates – Regular ones. Not “whenever they feel like it.”
• Encrypted video – So no one can peek at your footage mid-transit.
• Two-factor authentication (2FA) – A second lock on the door.
• Local storage options – Just in case the cloud gets stormy.

Set It Up Like You Mean It

Even the best camera is only as smart as the way it’s set up. Here’s how to stay safe:

• Change default usernames and passwords immediately.
• Keep apps and firmware updated—better yet, turn on auto-updates.
• Separate your smart devices from your business network. That way, if one gets hacked, the rest don’t go down with it.
• Lock down your router—it’s the front gate to your entire network.

Cameras Aren’t the Only Smart Devices That Can Spy

Think beyond the lens: smart doorbells, thermostats, and voice assistants all connect to your network too. If they’re not secured properly, they can be back doors for hackers to snoop around.

For small businesses, that’s not just creepy—it could mean losing client data, financial info, or worse.

Smart Devices Need Smart Setup

Smart gadgets can totally make life easier and your workplace safer—but only if you give security the attention it deserves. A few small tweaks today can save you from a major headache tomorrow.

Want to make sure your business is locked down tight?
Let’s review your setup before the hackers do. Schedule your free discovery call today and keep your “smart” devices from turning into a horror show.