October 20, 2025
In 2020, a family from Mississippi faced a terrifying invasion of their privacy when their eight-year-old daughter heard a strange man's voice coming from her bedroom—not her father. A hacker had breached their Ring camera and was taunting her through the device, playing music until the parents hurriedly unplugged it. Ring later confirmed the breach occurred due to the family reusing a previously compromised password.
While alarming, incidents like this have become increasingly common. Smart cameras and connected devices are rapidly gaining popularity among homeowners and small business owners alike. For small businesses, these tools offer an affordable way to enhance security—whether monitoring entrances, overseeing inventory rooms, or checking in after hours. However, without proper safeguards, these devices can open doors to significant cybersecurity threats.
Not all cameras offer the same level of protection. Many budget-friendly models neglect critical security features such as encryption and routine software updates. Even renowned brands can be vulnerable if users neglect to update default settings. Hackers frequently exploit weak points like factory-set passwords, outdated firmware, or unsecured WiFi networks. In extreme cases, attackers have even hijacked cameras to spy on live feeds or gain access to wider network systems.
If you're in the market for a new camera or assessing your current devices, prioritize those from trusted manufacturers that offer consistent security patches. Opt for models that encrypt video data before uploading to the cloud, support two-factor authentication for login security, and ideally provide options for local storage alongside cloud backups.
Installation and setup are just as crucial as device selection. Always replace default usernames and passwords immediately and stay up to date with the latest firmware and app releases to quickly address vulnerabilities. Enabling automatic updates is often the safest strategy. Additionally, consider segmenting your network so that smart devices are isolated from your core business systems. This containment reduces the risk that a compromised device could lead to exposure of your essential data. Don't overlook your router: ensure it is fortified with the highest security settings to block unauthorized access.
Remember, cameras aren't the only connected devices posing risks. Smart doorbells, thermostats, and voice assistants also connect to your network and can serve as entry points for hackers if not secured properly. For small businesses, this could mean much more than surveillance breaches—it may lead to client data leaks, financial information exposure, or disruption of critical operations. As you add more connected devices, diligent management becomes increasingly vital.
Smart technology can significantly streamline your operations and boost security—but only when configured with a strong focus on protection. Taking a few proactive measures now can keep your "smart" tools from becoming easy targets for cybercriminals.
Concerned about the security of your business devices? Don't leave your defenses to chance. Click here or call us at 801-997-8000 to book your complimentary 10-Minute Discovery Call. We'll help assess your system's vulnerabilities before hackers have a chance.
