The Smart Camera That Watched Back
In 2020, a Mississippi family woke up to a chilling surprise. Their eight-year-old daughter heard a man’s voice coming from her bedroom camera, taunting her, playing music, and calling her by name. The family had reused an old password from a previous breach, allowing hackers to log in.
That story went viral, but it’s far from unique. As connected devices flood homes and small businesses, smart cameras have become one of the most common and risky pieces of everyday technology.
According to Kaspersky’s 2025 IoT Threat Report, attacks targeting connected cameras and IoT devices surged by over 35% in the first half of the year. Most intrusions exploited default passwords or outdated firmware. Issues users can easily prevent but often overlook.
Smart cameras offer convenience and security, letting business owners monitor entryways or check inventory remotely. Yet that same connectivity can open an invisible door for attackers if the setup isn’t handled correctly.
Not all cameras follow the same security standards. Cheaper models often skip essential protections, and even reputable brands rely on users to secure them properly. Here’s how hackers typically gain access:
Default credentials: Many devices ship with simple logins like “admin/admin.” Attackers use automated tools to find these quickly.
Outdated firmware: Vulnerabilities stay open when updates aren’t applied.
Weak Wi-Fi networks: Unsecured routers make all connected devices easy targets.
Cloud leaks: Unencrypted video streams can be intercepted or stolen from poorly protected servers.
And it’s not just about privacy. Once inside, attackers can use a compromised camera as a pivot point. A foothold into your larger network that leads to customer data, accounting systems, or cloud applications.
When selecting a smart camera for your business or home, prioritize security over price. Look for these essentials:
Regular firmware updates from a reputable manufacturer.
Encryption for both data storage and transmission.
Two-factor authentication (2FA) for account access.
Local storage options alongside cloud backups.
Transparency: brands that publish vulnerability policies and update logs.
If a brand doesn’t clearly state how it protects your data, that’s a red flag.
Even the best device can be unsafe if installed incorrectly. Follow these steps:
Change default usernames and passwords immediately.
Enable automatic firmware updates whenever possible.
Segment your Wi-Fi to keep cameras and IoT gadgets separate from workstations or business servers.
Disable remote viewing features you don’t use.
Strengthen your router’s security with WPA3 encryption and regular updates.
These steps block the most common attack paths without requiring advanced expertise.
Smart doorbells, thermostats, printers, and voice assistants all connect to the same ecosystem. A single weak link can expose your entire business network.
In early 2025, Cisco Talos researchers found that a wave of new malware nicknamed WarmIoT, was spreading through unpatched smart plugs and cameras, giving criminals remote control of entire office networks.
For small businesses, a breach like that can mean data theft, downtime, and reputational damage.
Connected devices can absolutely improve safety, but they need the same attention you’d give to any business-critical system.
Audit every device that connects to your network.
Establish policies for password management and update schedules.
Work with your MSP to monitor device traffic and isolate suspicious activity.
Security isn’t about paranoia; it’s about preparation.
At KairosIT, we help businesses in Florida and California secure every device on their network, from workstations to smart cameras.
Schedule your free discovery call today and make sure your smart devices aren’t working against you.