October 20, 2025
In 2020, a Mississippi family faced a chilling intrusion when their eight-year-old daughter heard a male voice coming from her bedroom camera—it wasn't her father. A hacker had breached their Ring camera, taunting her and playing music through the device until her parents intervened and disconnected it. Ring confirmed the breach was due to the family reusing an old, compromised password.
Incidents like this may seem alarming, but they are far from uncommon. Smart cameras and other connected devices have surged in popularity for homes and small businesses alike. For small businesses, these affordable tools enhance security by monitoring entrances, stockrooms, or after-hours activity. However, while these devices increase peace of mind, they can become significant security liabilities if not properly protected.
Not every camera offers the same level of protection. Many budget options sacrifice critical security features such as encryption and timely software updates. Even well-established brands remain vulnerable when default settings go unchanged. Cybercriminals often exploit weak points like factory passwords, outdated software, or unsecured WiFi networks. Some attackers have hijacked cameras to access footage or penetrate deeper into networks.
When purchasing or evaluating cameras, prioritize trusted brands that provide ongoing security patches. Verify the device encrypts video before uploading to the cloud and supports two-factor authentication for logging in. Whenever possible, select models offering local storage options alongside cloud backups for added control.
Equally important is proper device configuration. Change default usernames and passwords immediately and keep firmware and associated apps up to date to quickly fix vulnerabilities. Enabling automatic updates is the safest choice. Additionally, it's advisable to separate your smart devices onto a different network than your core business systems. This limits the damage if one device is compromised, preventing hackers from gaining easy access to sensitive data. Don't overlook your router—configure it with the strongest security settings to block unauthorized access.
While cameras often grab attention, other smart devices like doorbells, thermostats, and voice assistants also connect to your network. Unsecured, these can serve as unexpected entry points for attackers, risking exposure of client data, financial records, or other critical business information. As the number of connected devices grows, diligent management becomes essential.
Smart technology can significantly simplify your life and enhance workplace security—but only when configured with robust protections. Taking a few proactive measures today can stop your "smart" gadgets from becoming easy targets for hackers.
Concerned about your business's device security? Don't leave your protection to chance. Click here or call us at 609-676-3597 to schedule your free 15-Minute Discovery Call. Let us help you strengthen your security before cybercriminals have the chance.
