October 20, 2025
In 2020, a Mississippi family experienced a terrifying intrusion. Their eight-year-old daughter heard a mans voice through her bedroom Ring camera, but it wasnt her father. A hacker had infiltrated their device, speaking to her, taunting, and playing music until the parents quickly unplugged it. Ring confirmed the breach was due to the family reusing an outdated, compromised password.
Incidents like this are alarming yet not uncommon. Smart cameras and connected devices are widely used in homes and small businesses as cost-effective security solutions. For small businesses, these gadgets help monitor entrances, safeguard inventory spaces, and check on premises after hours. However, while they offer convenience and peace of mind, they can also present significant cybersecurity threats if not properly protected.
Not all cameras offer the same level of security. Budget models often sacrifice essential protections like encryption or regular software updates. Even top brand devices can be vulnerable if default settings are left unchanged. Hackers typically exploit weak points such as default passwords, outdated firmware, or unsecured WiFi connections. Some attackers have commandeered cameras to access live footage or infiltrate networks.
If youre shopping for a new camera or reviewing your current setup, prioritize trusted brands known for frequent security patches. Ensure the device encrypts video before uploading it to the cloud, supports two-factor authentication, and offers local storage options alongside cloud backup whenever available.
Equally important is proper device configuration. Immediately replace default usernames and passwords, and regularly update firmware and apps to fix vulnerabilities. Enabling automatic updates is the safest choice. Additionally, consider segregating smart devices on their own network separate from core business systems to limit potential breaches. Dont overlook your routers security—use robust settings to keep hackers out.
Though cameras attract the most attention, other smart gadgets like doorbells, thermostats, and voice assistants also connect to your network and can become entry points if unsecured. For small businesses, this risk goes beyond simple video access; it can expose sensitive customer data, financial information, or critical business records. The more devices you integrate, the greater the need for vigilant management.
Smart devices can greatly enhance convenience and security—provided theyre set up with strong protection in mind. Taking a few proactive security measures today will help prevent your smart technology from becoming an easy target for cybercriminals.
Concerned about your business device security? Dont risk it. Click here or give us a call at 336-310-0277 to schedule a free Discovery Call today, and we'll help you review your setup before hackers do it for you.
