Can Night Owl Security Systems be Hacked?

By Trae Jacobs,

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The Night Owl security system is the fastest growing manufacturer of security DVRs, NVR’s, and cameras, according to their website. They have pride in their ability to design and engineer products that are high quality, user-friendly, and affordable, but how reliable is the product?

Can Night Owl Security System Be Hacked? Nearly any camera can be hacked with enough effort, especially a camera online. It’s critical to know:

You should change your default password immediately
How security systems are being hacked
The signs if your system has been hacked
How to secure your home security system

The first action you should take is identifying the different ways your cameras could already be hacked. Once you’re in the clear, you should take preventative steps for the future. Hackers (and even thieves) will avoid tougher prey and move on.

How Are Security Systems Being Hacked

Security systems are used to make us feel safer and more secure in our homes, and research shows that by the end of 2016, 1 in 9 people owned security systems.

Night vision security systems can be hacked, leaking footage, or manipulating data by using infrared signals which are sent from hundreds of meters away.

Most home security systems are operating using apps, which can easily be hacked when users fail to update the default password.

Another way hackers gain access to your security cameras is through the cloud server, which is intended to keep footage safe. This causes the owner of the devices to be out of control and it is the manufacturer’s responsibility for the protection of their customers’ data.

It has been discovered that security cameras sold by Night Owl and other companies contained a flaw, allowing hackers to gain access to the owner’s username and password.

Signs Your Security System Has Been Hacked

There are a few ways to recognize that your security system has been hacked. One of these is if you notice your camera is moving without your control. If this happens, chances are someone has hacked into your camera(s) and is controlling the angle it covers.

You may notice a noise coming from your device or the LED light blinking. If this happens, you should check the settings and related network traffic.

If you start to notice any of these signs or anything that you find alarming, it’s essential to take action.

Securing Your Home Security System

Do Your Research Before You Purchase

Before you purchase a new security device, do your research on the company. It’s important to purchase devices you know are safe so you know your home is covered. You can further your research about Night Owl devices here.

Install a Reliable Antivirus Software

It’s important to create a strong password for your account to protect your home network. Any vulnerabilities on your account allow for easier access to your account and cameras. Your security software should create a barrier against anyone attempting to hack into your security system.

The Stronger the Password, the Better

Default passwords are never a safe option for your security system. Your password should contain at least 14 characters, including upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Do not include personal information that can be easy to discover.

Install a Password Manager

Oftentimes, people use the same password for multiple accounts. This makes it easier to guess your password and hack into your security system. By installing a password manager, you can lose the stress of creating a strong, trustworthy password.

WiFi Home Security Cameras Safety

WiFi home security devices were created to lower the chances of hackers. Before you can feel completely comfortable with your wireless security system, you need to discover how secure your WiFi cameras are.

How Are They Hacked?

Oftentimes, security systems are hacked due to default passwords or lack of protection passwords. Devices that fail to support SSLT/LS encryption, allow hackers easier access into your cameras and essentially your home.

Many hackers use a technique called “clickjacking” to gain access to your WiFi camera(s). By using HTML and CSS codes, they can create a source on your files without you even noticing. This causes the word “allow” or a play button to appear, and when you choose to click on either, you are giving someone access to all of your linked cameras.

Tips For Protecting Your WiFi Cameras

Lots of cameras that use WiFi support remote viewing. This allows you to monitor your home at any time, even when you are away. It is possible for an app or website to log in to your account and security cameras, exposing you to hackers.

Be cautious of password recovery emails. This is available for most services that require a password to access your account and information. Password recovery emails can be a target for cybercriminals. One of the best ways to remain safe from this is to use complex email addresses, which are used for a specific purpose.