Baby Monitors & CCTV Advice

Yesterday, there has been media attention regarding the security of IP cameras and baby monitoring devices that are connected to the home Wi-Fi network.

https://news.sky.com/story/security-service-warns-smart-cameras-and-baby-monitors-could-be-accessed-by-criminals-11948142

The advice was disseminated by the director of the National Cyber Security Centre. (GCHQ)
This advice is not new, and does not appear to be in response to a specific threat but should form part of your general housekeeping when it comes to your home cyber security.
If your camera/device comes with a default password, change it to a secure one – connecting three random words which you’ll remember is a good way to do this. You can usually change your password using the app you use to manage the device. An example of a strong password using three random words could be:

1TableChairliGht9@ (table, chair, light, 1 and 9 and @)

  • Keep your camera secure by regularly updating security software. Not only does this keep your devices secure, but often adds new features and other improvements.
  • If you do not use the feature that lets you remotely access the camera from the internet, it is recommended you disable it.

To read the advice from the NCSC visit:
https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/news/consumers-urged-secure-internet-connected-cameras

I would strongly recommend that when connecting any new device to your home network, that you change the default password with a unique strong password.
Have you changed the default password for your home Wi-Fi router?

Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact me.
Many thanks
Nigel

Mr Nigel Sutton 8517
Fraud and Cyber Security Advisor
Cambridgeshire Constabulary Headquarters

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