Can Blink Cameras Be Hacked?

Modern security cameras are fundamental for those looking to improve their home security monitoring. However, since many security devices communicate wirelessly, they are vulnerable to a certain degree of hacking or unauthorized access. Knowing this, I wanted to find out if Blink cameras can be hacked.

Blink cameras, like most wireless technology, are susceptible to hacking. Fortunately, Amazon frequently releases firmware updates to keep your devices safe and secure from unauthorized use.

Though Blink cameras do have security vulnerabilities, there have not been any recent documented instances of hacking. Backed by Amazon, Blink security cameras are often updated with more secure firmware, specifically designed to prevent hacking. This article will examine how Blink protects your data and offer tips to keep your cameras safe and secure.

Blink Camera Security Protocols

Security is at the forefront of Amazon’s priorities, especially regarding their security monitoring devices. When it comes to wirelessly transmitting sensitive information, security and encryption are undeniably essential. Let’s look at some of the security features provided by Blink cameras:

• WPA2 Wi-Fi Encryption: All Blink devices use WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access II) encryption, which uses the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES). The AES is also used to secure government level information so you can rest assure your data is safe.
• Encrypted Video Footage: In addition to using WPA2 encryption, Blink cameras also encrypt recorded video footage to secure the information from prying eyes. The recordings are encrypted at the source, meaning if an unauthorized user were to access the footage, they would not be able to view the stolen information.

Additionally, Blink’s Cloud-based servers use “military-grade” encryption (in addition to WPA2 and AES wireless protocols), so not even employees would be able to access your data.

Can Blink Cameras Be Hacked?

Most recently, Tenable Inc., a “Cyber Exposure” company, revealed several security vulnerabilities with Blink cameras (specifically the XT2), potentially allowing unauthorized access. Almost immediately after the vulnerabilities were exposed, Amazon released security updates to users with the affected devices, thus quickly resolving the threat.

How Can the Cameras Be Hacked?

The most common way hackers can gain unauthorized access to your devices is by obtaining passwords and login information. With a user’s login information, hackers can not only access your wireless devices, but they can also change settings, effectively locking the intended user out.

Hackers typically obtain data through a process called “credential stuffing.” This method involves cyberattackers scanning for login information from other unrelated data breaches and using the stolen credentials to access your devices. Because of this, it is essential to maintain and update your passwords regularly.

Security Vulnerabilities

In addition to credential stuffing, Blink cameras have exploitable security vulnerabilities, allowing unauthorized users to access the devices directly. These security vulnerabilities would theoretically provide hackers the ability to remotely view your camera footage, as well as accessing the two-way audio feature on Blink devices.

A downside to having multiple smart devices connected to a single hub (like the Sync module) is that they are vulnerable to “lateral movements.” This means that if they can control a single camera, they could potentially access all your connected security devices (disable alarms, unlock smart locks, etc.).

Tips to Protect Your Blink Cameras

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to ensure that your Blink devices are consistently safe and protected. With the resources available to Amazon, you can rest assured that they are invested in your security as well.

Keep Firmware Up to Date

As we saw with Tenable Inc., Amazon moves quickly to resolve cyber threats when it comes to exploitable security vulnerabilities. They can reactively release firmware updates designed to keep your devices safe from unauthorized use. With this in mind, you must update your Blink devices frequently to ensure they are protected with the latest available security protocols.

Note: If you’re unsure of which firmware version your device is running, you can power-cycle the camera (remove and replace the batteries); this will automatically connect the device to Blink’s servers and update your camera to the latest firmware available (Source: Tom’s Guide).

Update Login Information

In addition to updating your firmware, it is vital to update your login information, especially if you think your device(s) have been compromised. Cybersecurity experts suggest changing your login information about every three months. If you’re unsure how to change your information, Blink Support offers a helpful article here.

Use Different Log-ins for Every Account

A common practice for many users is to have the same login information across all their accounts. However, this makes it easier for hackers to illegally obtain your information, especially knowing that most sensitive information is acquired through credential stuffing.

Ensure that you use unique login information for your devices, so they’re protected from unauthorized use.

In Summary

Blink cameras are vulnerable to the same types of unauthorized access as most wireless devices. When presented with a potential threat, Amazon quickly reacted by releasing a security update, resolving the issue. With this in mind, as long as you take the right precautions to secure your devices, Blink cameras are an excellent choice for users looking to monitor their homes safely and securely.