October 20, 2025
In 2020, a family from Mississippi faced a terrifying experience 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, speaking and playing music through it until the parents quickly unplugged the device. Ring later confirmed the breach occurred due to the family using a reused, compromised password.
While such incidents are alarming, they are unfortunately common. Smart cameras and connected devices have surged in popularity for homes and small businesses alike. For small businesses, these devices offer an affordable means to enhance security—whether monitoring entrances, overseeing inventory, or checking premises after hours. However, without proper safeguards, these very devices can open your business doors to serious cyber threats.
Not all security cameras offer the same level of protection. Many budget models save costs by skipping critical security features like encryption and regular updates. Even leading brands can be vulnerable if default settings remain unchanged. Hackers frequently target weak points like default passwords, outdated firmware, or insecure WiFi networks. In some alarming cases, attackers have commandeered cameras to access footage or infiltrate broader networks.
When selecting new cameras or reviewing existing ones, prioritize trusted brands that deliver consistent security updates. Ensure your devices encrypt video data before cloud transmission, offer two-factor authentication for account logins, and, if possible, include options for local storage alongside cloud backups.
Equally important is how you set up your smart devices. Immediately change default usernames and passwords, and maintain up-to-date firmware and app versions to patch known vulnerabilities. Enabling automatic updates is the safest bet. Also consider segmenting your network so smart devices operate on separate WiFi from your business systems. This limits hacker access if one device gets breached. Don't forget your router—configure it with the strongest security settings to keep intruders out.
Cameras aren't the only smart devices requiring your attention. Doorbells, thermostats, and voice assistants also connect to your network. Without proper security, these can become unguarded entry points. For small businesses, this vulnerability risks exposure of client data, financial documents, and other sensitive information. The more devices you add, the more critical it becomes to manage security diligently. Properly overseeing your connected devices protects your entire operation.
Smart devices can dramatically simplify your life and strengthen workplace safety—but only when configured with robust security in mind. Taking proactive steps today can stop your "smart" technology from becoming hackers' easy targets.
Ready to lock down your business devices? Don't leave security to chance. Click here or call us at 920-818-0900 to schedule your free 15-Minute Discovery Call. Let us help you safeguard your setup before cybercriminals have a chance.
