So the lesson here is to not overlook the small details. In the case of the Hikvision hack, it was known to be “12345” with a username of “admin.”Ĭhanging default passwords for a new security camera system should be a no-brainer in this day and age. In theory, this should be difficult and IP security should protect network data, but the shocking reality is that these passwords are often identical to the default factory settings provided by the manufacturer. By using engines such as or shadon.io, they can obtain that signature information and begin trying passwords that will grant access to the wireless camera itself or, if a router is attacked, entire security systems. Hack Method #1: Default Password AccessĪnyone looking to break into CCTV cameras can start by simply looking for its IP address online and logging in. To better prepare, all enterprises should understand the following three methods that are among the most commonly used by criminals to gain unauthorized access to CCTV cameras. Department of Homeland Security, characterized the vulnerability as “remotely exploitable” with a “ low skill level to exploit.”ĭespite this incident raising overall awareness, many organizations are still woefully behind when it comes to safeguarding their camera systems. The problem created embarrassing headlines (the hashtag #hakvision circulated on social channels). TThe entire industry received a wake-up call to this reality following the revelation in 2017 that more than half a dozen Hikvision brand wifi cameras were being accessed through a backdoor password reset flaw. So, these vulnerabilities largely defeat the purpose of investing in a surveillance system. Raising the bar on security is the whole point of installing CCTV cameras in the first place. Once inside, they can use remote access to watch the world through your cameras-or potentially even take control of them. Though their methods may vary, talented hackers can make their way into your home security or enterprise surveillance network. Some use very simple exploits (that take mere minutes), while others prefer more sophisticated intrusions (that infiltrate even hardened systems). Malicious actors have developed a wide range of techniques to circumvent security protocols and gain access to video surveillance systems.

Though advances have been made in recent years, many CCTV cameras remain troublingly vulnerable to attack.

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