Smart cameras and connected devices have become a staple in modern offices and small businesses. From monitoring entryways to keeping tabs on inventory rooms, these tools offer convenience and peace of mind. But as their popularity grows, so do the risks—especially when security is overlooked.
In one chilling example, a family in Mississippi discovered their Ring camera had been hacked. An intruder accessed the device and spoke directly to their eight-year-old daughter through the camera, taunting her until the parents intervened. The breach occurred because the family reused a password that had already been exposed in a previous data leak.
While this incident happened in a home, the implications for businesses are just as serious. Smart cameras and other Internet of Things (IoT) devices can become entry points for cybercriminals if not properly secured. For professional services firms that handle sensitive client data, financial records, or legal documents, a compromised device could mean more than just a privacy violation—it could lead to a full-scale data breach.
Why Smart Devices Pose Real Risks to Businesses
Smart cameras are often marketed as affordable security solutions, but not all models are created equal. Many budget-friendly options cut corners on cybersecurity features, skipping essentials like encryption, secure firmware, or regular software updates.
Even well-known brands can be vulnerable if users leave default settings in place. Hackers actively scan for devices with:
- Default usernames and passwords
- Outdated firmware
- Unsecured WiFi connections
Once inside, attackers can hijack camera feeds, access internal networks, or use the device as a launchpad for broader attacks.
What to Look for When Choosing Smart Cameras
If you’re considering adding smart cameras to your business—or reviewing the ones you already use—here are key features to prioritize:
- Reputable brands that offer regular security patches and updates
- Encrypted video transmission to protect footage sent to the cloud
- Two-factor authentication (2FA) for device logins
- Local storage options in addition to cloud backups
These features help ensure that even if a device is targeted, it won’t be easily compromised.
Smart Setup Matters Just as Much as Smart Hardware
Buying a secure device is only half the battle. How you configure and maintain it plays a major role in keeping your business safe.
Best practices for setup:
- Change default usernames and passwords immediately
- Enable automatic firmware and app updates
- Segment your network so smart devices are isolated from core business systems
- Secure your router with the strongest available settings
Network segmentation is especially important. If a smart camera is compromised, it shouldn’t provide easy access to your accounting software, client database, or internal communications.
Don’t Forget the Other Smart Devices
While cameras get most of the attention, they’re just one piece of the puzzle. Smart doorbells, thermostats, voice assistants, and even lighting systems connect to your network—and each one can be a potential vulnerability.
For professional services firms, the stakes are high. A compromised smart thermostat might seem harmless, but if it shares a network with your client management system, it could become a backdoor for attackers.
The more devices you connect, the more critical it becomes to manage them carefully. Every new gadget should be treated as a potential risk until it’s properly secured.
Smart Devices Can Be Safe—If You Stay Smart About Security
Smart technology can absolutely enhance your workplace—improving safety, efficiency, and convenience. But without the right precautions, these tools can turn into liabilities.
A few proactive steps today can prevent costly breaches tomorrow. Don’t wait until a hacker finds the weak spot in your setup. Want to learn more tips to be proactive about cybersecurity in your business? Read this blog, “The Chicagoland Small-Business Owners’ Guide to Online Safety in 2025,” here.
Want to make sure your business devices are secure?
Schedule a free discovery call here or call RJ2 Technologies at (847) 303-1194 and let us help you review your smart device setup—before someone else does.
