October 20, 2025
In 2020, a family in Mississippi faced a terrifying invasion of privacy. Their eight-year-old daughter heard a strange man's voice coming from her bedroom's Ring camera — but it wasn't their father. A hacker had infiltrated their Ring account, using the device to taunt her and play music, forcing the parents to hurriedly unplug the camera. Ring later disclosed that the breach occurred because the family reused an old password that had been exposed in a previous data breach.
Incidents like these highlight the risks that come with smart cameras and other connected gadgets, which have surged in popularity among homeowners and small business owners alike. For small businesses, smart cameras offer an affordable security boost — whether monitoring entrances, overseeing inventory, or checking things after hours. However, these benefits come with significant vulnerabilities if the devices aren't secured properly.
Not every camera on the market delivers the same level of security. Budget-friendly options often lack critical protections such as encryption and timely software updates. Even reputable brands can fall prey to breaches if users fail to change default settings. Cybercriminals frequently exploit weaknesses like factory default passwords, outdated firmware, or insecure WiFi networks. In some cases, attackers have hijacked cameras to spy on footage or penetrate deeper into networks.
If you're shopping for new cameras or auditing your current setup, prioritize devices from trusted brands that offer consistent security patches. Opt for cameras that encrypt video before uploading it to the cloud, support two-factor authentication for account access, and provide options for local storage alongside cloud backups.
Equally important is how you configure these devices. Change all default usernames and passwords at the start, and regularly update firmware and apps to close off known vulnerabilities. Enabling automatic updates is the safest choice. Plus, consider isolating smart devices on a separate network segment, so they don't share WiFi with your core business systems. This limits a hacker's ability to spread if one device is compromised. Don't overlook your router's security either—ensure it's set with the strongest settings to keep unauthorized users out.
While security cameras often steal the spotlight, remember that other smart devices like doorbells, thermostats, and voice assistants also connect to your business network. If left unsecured, they can serve as backdoors into critical information. For small businesses, a breach could expose client data, financial documents, or other sensitive materials. As you increase the number of connected gadgets, managing their security becomes even more essential.
Smart technology can significantly enhance convenience and safety in your home or workplace—but only if security is prioritized. Taking a few essential precautions now will protect your smart devices from becoming easy targets for hackers.
Want expert help securing your business technology? Don't wait for an attack to reveal vulnerabilities. Click here or give us a call at 817-277-1001 to schedule a free 15-Minute Discovery Call today, and we'll help you review your setup before hackers do it for you.
