Tips to Prevent Your Security System from Being Hacked
The Risky Business of Ring’s Vulnerable Security and other DIY security systems can leave your home as a potential target for hackers or thieves. When you are investing in a security system, you are hoping for peace of mind, and you are trusting this technology with your safety and property.
Have I Been Hacked?
A hacker may send you ransomware messages or request money in exchange for your information. In unfortunate and scary cases, hackers may make sounds or speak via two-way communication features of a system.
In more covert cases, there may be subtle signs that your security system has been targeted in an attack. Cameras often have small LED lights or signals that tell you when a camera is being accessed remotely. If you are not actively watching a camera but the light is on, it could be a sign that your security system has been compromised.
Similarly, if your camera moves without your control, take immediate note.
Increases in your login activity on your security system or significant increases in your streaming or download activity can also be a red flag.
Paying attention to your accounts and activity in your home is a way to make sure that your security system is doing what it was meant to do.
How to Avoid Being Hacked
As with any online accounts or services, updating your passwords with strong, unique passwords or passphrases is key to avoiding online hacking. This is true for everything from your Alarm.com account to your banking, so we recommend changing your online password regularly.
Securing your Wi-Fi network also keeps the information and your online activity safe as well. If your cameras are attached to your Wi-Fi system, anyone who gains access to it will be able to hack into your camera feeds very easily.
For someone to hack into your security system, they first need to know that you have one. By hiding your cameras, you can keep them private. We have a blog of ideas for where to hide your cameras so that you can keep an eye on your property, without burglars or potential hackers being able to see them.
Tech and software companies are constantly updating their services to counter new threats or to fix security bugs. By maintaining the most recent updates and software, you can ensure that you are protected by the latest additions to their security.
Some security systems include apps that allow you to access your system remotely. Having biometric security and other passcodes on your phone can help you protect your mobile information. Additionally, most experts recommend adding two factor authentication to your accounts, such as a phone number, email, or security question that is prompted when someone tries to access the account.
Hardware is frequently improved to increase security. Pay attention to the news from the company that manufactures your hardware to see if there are ever recalls or security concerns.
One of the biggest keys to deterring a potential hacker is to work with an expert security team, like the one at FSS Technologies. We are always paying attention to the latest technology and focus on keeping our customers safe. When there are updates or improvements, we make sure our clients are the first to know.
Moreover, with monitoring solutions, we can be there when you can’t. Our monitoring team can respond to emergencies for you, no matter what.
Explore Our Other Blogs
Fire Safety for Multistory Buildings
While it can seem similar to homes or businesses, multistory properties have unique demands for fire safety. Whether your property includes a mid-rise condo and business building or multiple low-rise apartment locations, it requires additional care and consideration when evaluating the protection of inhabitants from fire hazards. If a fire breaks out in one…
Where Should Fire Alarm Pull Stations Be Located?
While they generally go unnoticed until a moment of need, fire alarm pull stations are an integral part of a business or large residential building’s commercial fire system. What is a fire alarm pull station? As opposed to a smoke detector or sensor, human intervention activates a manual pull station and is the catalyst for setting…
Why Emergency and Exit Lighting Matter
Emergency lighting and exit lighting are vital components of life safety systems. They’re a standard part of any commercial structure and not as noticeable on a normal day. When power fails or a disaster happens, these lights guide people to safety, helping prevent panic and ensuring clear evacuation routes for everyone in a building. Whether…
Addressable vs. Conventional Fire Alarms
When determining what type of fire alarm systems are best for your business, it boils down to your choice between a conventional and addressable alarm system. The combination of smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide detectors work together with your control panel to keep your business safe. Additionally, you will need to determine what kind of automatic…
What are BDA Systems?
As technology continues to evolve and building codes grow more stringent, bi-directional amplifier (BDA) systems are no longer just a luxury—they’re a critical component in ensuring your building’s safety and compliance. Whether you’re a property owner, facilities manager, or contractor, understanding BDA systems is essential, and choosing the right partner for installation makes all the difference….
Hard-Wired vs Wireless Security Systems
The chicken or the egg. Not asking which came first in this case, just which one you like better. In the world of security systems, which came first between wired and wireless was answered long ago. But the question of which is better remains. Let’s start with a quick overview of how each of these…
Will CCTV Work Without Internet?
Closed-circuit television (CCTV) is a TV system where the signal isn’t publicly broadcast but is watched and monitored, usually for surveillance and security purposes. From city streets and highways to retail stores and banks, CCTV cameras are placed in most places to protect property and deter crime. Learn whether a commercial CCTV system can work…
What Causes False Alarms on Home Security Systems
False alarms on home security systems are not only an annoyance for homeowners, but they take up the valuable time and resources of our local law enforcement officials. In fact, many cities and towns now charge homeowners a fee for false alarms. In order to save you the frustration and potential financial hit, let’s look…
Emergency Egress 101 for Commercial Buildings
When people think about emergency egress, they usually picture exit signs and the nearest door. In reality, egress is the entire route occupants rely on to get out quickly and safely—often under heightened stress, reduced visibility, and crowded conditions. When a means of egress isn’t clear or usable, even a minor emergency can turn into…
Smart Home Security & How to Implement
Home Security Paired with Home Automation Security vs. home automation is the friendliest rivalry around. Why? Because they play so well together. Security systems used to have a singular focus—keeping unwanted people out of a house. But as technology evolves, security equipment placement throughout the home for protection performs a dual purpose: Helping homeowners with…