We’ve all seen the recent stories of pretty much any device or account being hacked for malicious means; phones, bank accounts, email accounts, Twitter, Facebook etc. etc.
But what about CCTV systems? There are more and more systems being connected online to allow remote viewing, but how safe are they from hackers?
Whilst we have been installing CheckMyCCTV on customers’ sites, it’s been astonishing just how many systems either use the manufacturers default password, or no password at all – 8 out of 10 CCTV systems were using the manufacturers default password.
If a CCTV system is connected to a broadband line and is using the default passwords it can be very easy for an unauthorised user to gain access and do some or all of the following:
- View and copy images from the CCTV system.
- Reboot or shutdown the system.
- Stop cameras from recording.
- Disable alarms or connection to a Remote Video Receiving Centre (RVRC).
- Delete or overwrite recordings.
- Lock out authorised users.
You wouldn’t install a lock and give a key to anyone who happens to knock on the door – which is exactly what you’re doing if you don’t change the default passwords.
Check with the manufacturer regarding how to change the passwords, and put it on your checklist to complete before signing the site off – The integrity of your customers’ CCTV system and your reputation may depend on it.