Like many people these days, you likely have a doorbell camera installed on your front door. You know, the feature that lets you see who's at your doorstep, even if they're miles away.
There's no doubt that it can be very useful for enhancing security, and it definitely feels safer to have it running 24/7, but this is what we heard. It turns out that some doorbell cameras have serious security flaws.
A recent survey by Consumer Reports reveals a troubling scenario.
Certain doorbell cameras that are supposed to keep your home safe have been found to have serious security flaws. This shocking discovery highlights the potential risks you could face if you already have a doorbell camera or are thinking about incorporating one of these devices into your home.
Click to receive Kurt's free CYBERGUY newsletter with security alerts, quick video tips, tech reviews, and easy ways to make you smarter.
Security flaws exposed by researchers
Researchers have identified key vulnerabilities in video doorbells manufactured by Chinese company Eken Group Ltd. The devices, sold under the Eken and Tuck brand names among others, are available on major online retail platforms including Amazon, Walmart, Sears, and Shein. And Temu.
This flaw could allow unauthorized access to view footage or even take complete control of the device.
Dog caught on doorbell camera stealing packages from neighbor's front porch
Technical defects discovered
The crux of the problem lies in the doorbell's dependence on an app called Aiwit, run by Eken Group. Scammers can exploit this by connecting an unsecured doorbell to a device, giving them the ability to view or capture images and block the legitimate owner.
Additionally, the lack of a registration code mandated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) raises additional questions about the legality of these devices in the United States.
Additional Information: Are Doorbell Cameras Vulnerable to Jamming or Interference?
Retailer response to survey
After an investigation, retailers like Temu removed the suspicious doorbells from their listings. Walmart acknowledged the problem with the third-party seller and issued a refund.
However, despite giving these products the “Amazon's Choice” badge, Amazon did not respond to CyberGuy's inquiry at the time of publication. Critics argue that e-commerce giants like Amazon should be held more accountable for the products sold on their platforms.
See more: The Best Choices for Enhancing Home Security
Industry and regulatory issues
The research highlights a complex ecosystem of brands and manufacturers, often operating under multiple names and offering similar products. This complicates the task of regulating and ensuring the safety of products sold online. Despite contacting manufacturers and online retailers, Consumer Reports found that most of the problematic products were still being sold.
More Information: How to Detect Hackers Spying on Your Doorbell Camera
What You Can Do to Protect Yourself
For your part, we recommend that you exercise caution and do your due diligence before installing these doorbell cameras in your home. Here are 12 things you can do to stay protected.
One. View all home video doorbell and security camera manufacturers. Research the manufacturer. Check their reputation, read reviews, and see if they have a track record of maintaining security. Not all doorbell cameras are created equal.
2. Disconnect and unplug any cameras identified as unsafe or a security risk. Consumer Reports has done the work for you. If you own one of the flagged doorbell cameras, unplug it, disconnect it from Wi-Fi, and consider purchasing a more secure camera like the ones listed here below. The best video doorbell.
three. Access the camera app or web interface. Most modern doorbell cameras are managed through a smartphone app or web interface. Start by logging into your account.
Get FOX Business on the go by clicking here
Here's what you can do to protect your privacy in Ring apps:
- Run ring app
- Tap the three-line menu at the top left.
- Check out these three areas in Control Center: Account Verification – Change to text instead of email authentication client device – Look through this list and make sure all of these devices belong to you or someone else you have authorized as a shared user. Shared Users – Review each person listed to ensure that only people you give them access can see.
- Account verification – change to text instead of email
- Authorized Client Devices – Look through this list and make sure all of these devices are owned by you or someone else you have approved as a shared user.
- Shared Users – Review each person listed to ensure that only people you give them access can see.
4. Firmware and software updates: For security purposes, it is important to regularly update your device's firmware and related apps. Manufacturers often release updates to patch vulnerabilities. Look for the ‘Updates’ or ‘Check for updates’ option in the Settings menu.
5. Review your account security settings. Keep your account safe with a strong, unique password. Consider using password manager Create and save complex passwords.
Also activate two-factor authentication If possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification.
6. Check your camera privacy settings. Find settings that control who can see your camera feed and when it records. Some devices allow you to set up privacy zones, which are areas that the camera ignores when recording.
7. Manage data storage and sharing settings: Understand how and for how long your video recordings are stored on your local device, in the cloud, or both. In particular, review your options regarding sharing your data with third parties.
8. Enable encryption: Make sure your camera supports end-to-end encryption to keep your video feeds and recordings safe. This makes it much more difficult for unauthorized individuals to access your data.
9. Protect your Wi-Fi network. Since your doorbell camera connects to your home Wi-Fi network, make sure your router is protected with WPA3 encryption if possible. also guest network For your smart home devices.
10. Please familiarize yourself with our privacy policy: Please review the manufacturer's privacy policy to understand how your data is used, shared and protected.
11. Access log monitoring: If your device or app provides access logs, check them regularly for unauthorized access.
12. Please contact support for advanced settings. If you're unsure about some settings or their meaning, don't hesitate to contact the manufacturer's customer support center.
The specific steps and available settings can vary greatly depending on your doorbell camera brand and model. We recommend that you always refer to the user manual or support article for your specific device for detailed instructions.
More: Privacy Triumph: Amazon Restricts Police Access to Ring Cameras
Kurt’s Key Takeaways
The shocking revelations from Consumer Reports highlight the urgent need for tighter security measures and stricter oversight of the smart device industry. Technology offers the promise of making our homes smarter and safer, but it also introduces new vulnerabilities that can be exploited. So, follow the three recommendations above to protect yourself and your family from monsters and scammers trying to invade your privacy.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
How concerned are you about security flaws in doorbell cameras, and what steps would you take to mitigate these risks? Please let us know by sending a letter to: Cyberguy.com/Contact Us
Subscribe to the free CyberGuy Report newsletter for more tech tips and security alerts. Cyberguy.com/Newsletter
Ask Kurt a question or let him know what story you'd like us to cover.
Answers to CyberGuy's most frequently asked questions:
Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.