A lot of small businesses have no idea that their security cameras might be viewable on the internet by complete strangers. It sounds unbelievable, but it happens every day. Camera systems that are set up incorrectly, left on default settings, or connected to weak networks are easy targets. Hackers and even regular internet users can scan for exposed cameras and view live feeds without permission.
If your cameras aren’t properly secured, you’re not just risking your footage being seen. You’re risking your entire network. Here’s what you need to know.
Default Passwords Are a Huge Problem
One of the most common mistakes is leaving cameras on their default username and password. Most camera systems come with something like “admin / admin.” These defaults are publicly available online for every camera brand. Hackers don’t guess them — they already know them. If your installer never changed the login credentials, anyone can access your cameras.
Port Forwarding Makes Cameras Even More Exposed
A lot of older camera systems need port forwarding so you can view them remotely. The problem is, open ports make your network vulnerable. Attackers scan these ports and can find your camera system within seconds. Once they’re in, they can view footage, steal credentials, or use the camera as a backdoor into your network.
Modern systems should avoid open ports completely and use secure, encrypted methods for remote access.
Cheap Cloud Cameras Aren’t Always Secure
Many small businesses buy inexpensive cloud cameras because they’re easy to set up. But some of these cameras send footage to servers overseas or use weak encryption. Others don’t get proper security updates, which leaves your business exposed. If a camera brand doesn’t offer strong security or transparency, it shouldn’t be used in a business environment.
Your Wi-Fi Network Might Be the Weak Point
Even if your cameras are secure, your Wi-Fi might not be. If your cameras are on the same network as guest devices or employee phones, one infected device can compromise the whole system. Cameras should always be on their own network—separate from everything else. This prevents cross-access and protects your footage.
Old Firmware Leaves Cameras Vulnerable
Just like routers and computers, cameras need updates. Manufacturers release firmware updates to fix vulnerabilities, improve encryption, and patch security holes. If your cameras haven’t been updated in years, they might be running with known weaknesses that hackers can easily exploit. Keeping cameras updated is crucial.
How to Tell if Your Cameras Are Exposed
Here are a few signs your camera system might be publicly viewable or insecure:
• You can access your cameras without logging in
• Your installer used port forwarding
• Your username is still “admin”
• You haven’t updated the system in years
• Your cameras are on Wi-Fi instead of wired
• Your network has no firewall or guest separation
• You can view cameras through an IP address with no encryption
If any of these sound familiar, your cameras may already be exposed.
Why It Matters
If someone gets access to your business cameras, they can see:
• Customer interactions
• Cash register activity
• Employee actions
• Inventory rooms
• Sensitive documents
• Opening and closing routines
Worse, many hacks start through a vulnerable camera. Attackers get into the camera, then into your network, then into your computers or POS systems. One weak device can compromise the entire business.
How to Fix It
Securing your cameras is usually straightforward:
• Change all default passwords
• Put cameras on their own isolated network
• Disable port forwarding
• Turn off UPnP
• Update firmware
• Use encrypted remote access
• Use a business-grade NVR or secure cloud platform
• Replace outdated or insecure cameras
A proper setup makes it almost impossible for someone to access your cameras without permission.
Final Thoughts
Your business cameras are supposed to protect you, not expose you. With cyberattacks increasing and cheap camera systems flooding the market, securing your surveillance system is more important than ever. A few changes can lock down your cameras and keep your business safe.
If you want your camera system checked or upgraded to a secure setup, I can take a look and tell you exactly what needs to be fixed.
Evan Fisher
480-529-2120
evan@arizonatechpros.com
