Home webcam users reminded to secure them against hackers

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http://www.todayonline.com/singapore/surveillance-camera-users-reminded-secure-them-against-hackers

While installing surveillance cameras in homes and on business premises has become increasingly common, consumers may not be aware of the need to secure them. There are security risks involving such gadgets.

These cameras — usually simple webcams that are linked to one’s Internet Protocol (IP) address — typically stream on publicly accessible network ports.

Those who do not remember to change the default passwords are vulnerable to anyone looking to hack into such systems.

A website called insecam.com has displayed links to more than 73,000 webcam feeds around the world, including close to 800 from Singapore.

Most of the feeds belong to closed-circuit television and IP cameras, installed in homes, offices and car parks.

Mr Darric Hor, regional director of information technology security firm Check Point Software Technologies, told TODAY that it is very easy for mischief-makers to tap into an unsecured IP camera to give new users access to the IP camera in question.

In an advisory posted yesterday on SingCert, a website which provides updates on cybersecurity-related incidents, the Infocomm Development Authority urged webcam users to change their default passwords and select a strong password.