October 17, 2025

In 2020, a family in Mississippi experienced a chilling breach: a hacker got into their Ring camera and spoke through it to their 8-year-old, taunting her until her parents unplugged it. The account had been compromised due to a reused, already-breached password. (This incident has been widely reported. See Time’s coverage.)

Stories like that are frightening—but they’re not rare. Smart cameras and connected devices have become staples for homes and small businesses. For a small business, they offer low-cost surveillance of entryways, inventory rooms, or after-hours activity. But those same devices can expose your network if not configured properly.

The Hidden Risk of “Smart” Security Cameras

As a Marine veteran turned IT leader, I believe every weak link matters. Many low-cost camera brands cut security corners: no encryption, no firmware updates, or default settings left untouched. Even trusted brands are vulnerable if users neglect configuration.

Attackers look for default credentials, unpatched firmware, or insecure WiFi networks. In several cases, hackers have hijacked cameras to view live video or gain deeper network access.

One recent example: users reported unauthorized device logins to their Ring accounts from unusual locations. Although Ring later clarified the issue was due to a backend bug showing inaccurate login dates (not an actual breach), it renewed concern about account security and exposure.

Another case: the FTC charged Ring with allowing employees and contractors to access customer video footage without safeguards. Ring agreed to a $5.8 million settlement.

How to Choose & Secure Smart Cameras (And All IoT Devices)

If you’re adding cameras or auditing existing ones, here are must-have security features:

  • Use reputable brands with a history of providing security updates
  • Require end-to-end encryption for video streams
  • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on device accounts
  • Prefer models that support both local and cloud storage

But choosing is only step one. How you set up these devices matters just as much:

  • Immediately change default usernames and passwords
  • Keep firmware and companion apps updated
  • Enable automatic updates where available
  • Segment smart devices’ network access so cameras don’t share the same WiFi subnet as business-critical systems
  • Harden your router settings and use strong encryption protocols

Other Smart Devices Aren’t Innocent Bystanders

It’s not just cameras. Doorbells, thermostats, smart speakers — they all connect to your network. Each new device is another potential doorway for attackers. For a small business, that’s not just creepy. It’s dangerous. Customer data, financial files, or critical systems can be exposed if one device goes rogue.

The more devices you add, the more intentional your security needs to be.

Stay Smart, Stay Secure

Smart devices can truly improve safety and workflow — if secured properly. A few smart steps now prevent your “smart” setup from becoming your biggest security vulnerability.

At Enlighten IT Solutions, we help small businesses secure their cameras, IoT devices, and network architecture. Let’s review your setup before hackers do it for you.

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👉 https://enlightenitsolutions.com/contact-us