Consumers urged to secure internet connected cameras

With the continuing growth in popularity of these smart devices, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has produced security guidance for users of this technology to help ensure it is used safely.

The move is supported by consumer group Which?, which has previously raised concerns about security flaws in connected cameras.

Though the risk is very low, live feeds or images from smart cameras have the potential to be accessed by unauthorised users. The NCSC, a part of Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ), has published guidance including three steps consumers can follow to help keep their devices safe:

• If your camera 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.
• 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.

Dr Ian Levy, NCSC technical director, said: “Smart technology such as cameras and baby monitors are fantastic innovations with real benefits for people, but without the right security measures in place they can be vulnerable to cyber attackers.

“We want people to continue using these devices safely, which is why we have produced new guidance setting out steps for people to take such as changing passwords.

“These are practical measures which we can all take to help us get the most out of our home-based technology in a safe way.”

Digital Infrastructure Minister Matt Warman said: “We are working hard to make the UK the safest place to be online and want everyone to have confidence in their connected devices. 

“I recently announced new laws to improve the security standards of internet-connected household products which will hold companies manufacturing and selling these devices to account.

"I urge everyone who owns a smart product to follow the NCSC guidance to make sure their device is secure.”

In future, new laws will ensure consumer smart devices sold in the UK adhere to three rigorous security requirements. These are:

a. Device passwords must be unique and not resettable to any universal factory setting;
b. Manufacturers must provide a public point of contact so anyone can report a vulnerability, and
c. Manufacturers & retailers must state the minimum length of time for which the device will receive security updates.

The drive to improve the security of internet-connected consumer products is part of the Government’s five year National Cyber Security Strategy, which is backed with £1.9 billion investment and aims to make the UK the safest place to live and work online.