In today’s connected world, baby monitors provide convenience but also pose cyber risks. While they allow parents to watch over their children from afar, unsecured devices can put families at risk.
The UAE’s Cyber Security Council has alerted residents that weak passwords, outdated software, and unencrypted connections can create vulnerabilities for cybercriminals.
A report from Kaspersky in 2024 indicated an increase in baby monitor hacks. Cybercriminals can gain remote access to these devices, enabling them to speak to children, spy on them, or even record footage.
So, how do these breaches occur? Weak security makes baby monitors susceptible:
- Weak passwords are easily cracked.
- Unencrypted connections let hackers intercept video feeds.
- Outdated software leaves monitors exposed.
As incidents rise, it’s crucial to take steps to safeguard your family’s privacy. Here are some recommendations:
- Change Default Passwords: Always update the default username and password to a strong, unique combination of letters, numbers, and special characters.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: If your device supports it, activate two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security, which requires a second form of verification.
- Update Software Regularly: Ensure your device’s firmware is up to date to fix any security vulnerabilities. Check for updates frequently.
- Use Strong Wi-Fi Security: Protect your home Wi-Fi with WPA3 encryption (or WPA2 if WPA3 isn’t available) and create a strong password.
- Disable Unnecessary Features: Turn off any unused features, such as remote access or cloud storage, to minimize vulnerabilities.
- Secure the Network: Consider setting up a separate network for smart devices to keep them isolated from your main devices.
- Monitor Device Access: Regularly review the list of devices connected to your network and investigate any unfamiliar ones.
- Limit Public Exposure: Avoid sharing details about your baby monitor on social media or online forums to reduce risk.
- Review Privacy Settings: Familiarize yourself with and adjust your baby monitor’s privacy settings for enhanced security.
- Turn Off the Monitor When Not in Use: Switch off the monitor if it’s not needed.
