What to Know About Webcam Hackers

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by Nicole Vincent Fleming

Consumer Education Specialist, FTC

Have you seen news reports about foreign websites showing live feeds from unsecured wireless cameras — like nanny cams, baby monitors, and security cameras — in the U.S. and around the world?

It’s creepy stuff, but there are steps you can take to protect your camera from prying eyes.

If you’re shopping for an internet protocol (IP) camera, look for security features that will help protect your privacy. You want a camera that encrypts the data it sends. Make sure both the camera and your home wireless network use security protocols. WPA2 is the strongest.

Once you’ve bought your IP camera, check its security settings and keep its software up-to-date. If you bought a camera that encrypts data — and I hope you did — turn this feature on.

Hackers are familiar with common passwords, so be sure to change the IP camera’s default password to a password that’s hard to guess. And check to make sure the login page for your camera has a URL that begins with https.

Finally, review the FTC’s article for more tips about using webcams safely.