Camera Hack: 1.20 lakh private cameras hacked to make objectionable videos, this mistake by users became the reason, here's how to avoid it..

Cases of hacking of devices and apps like mobile phones, laptops, and WhatsApp are commonplace, but did you know that even the CCTV installed in your home or office can be hacked? Recently, a shocking case emerged in South Korea, where four suspects were arrested for hacking over 120,000 cameras and private footage. The suspects hacked the CCTV footage and sold it as sexual exploitation material on a foreign website.

Targeting Simple Passwords

According to police, the suspects exploited IP camera security vulnerabilities and simple passwords. IP cameras, or Internet Protocol cameras, have become a cheap and smart alternative to CCTV cameras. They are connected to the internet and become easy targets for hackers, especially when passwords are weak.

Where were the cameras hacked?

The suspects targeted IP cameras installed in private homes, karaoke rooms, Pilates studios, and gynecology clinics. They earned millions of rupees by selling footage from these locations. Police investigations revealed that the four accused hacked individually at various locations. One accused hacked 63,000 cameras and made 545 pornographic videos, earning approximately 35 million won (approximately ₹2.47 million). Another accused hacked 70,000 cameras and sold 648 sexually explicit videos, earning ₹18 million (approximately ₹1.27 million).

According to police, the four accused operated independently and did not form an organized gang. Three more individuals have been arrested for purchasing or viewing these videos from the website. Police are working with foreign agencies to block and shut down the website.

Cyber ​​Unit Chief Park Woo-hyun stated that IP camera hacking and illegal filming are extremely serious crimes. Both viewing and possessing such videos are crimes. Police have visited 58 locations so far and assisted victims in changing their passwords. The National Police Agency states that the most important measure is password security. Camera access passwords should be changed regularly.

Important Security Tips

If you have an IP camera or CCTV in your home or office, take these steps to protect it from hacking.

Make the camera's password extremely strong.

Change the password at least every 30 days.
Never use the default password.
Always keep the camera's software/firmware updated.
Do not install cameras in bedrooms/bathrooms/changing areas.
If you have any doubts, change the password immediately and report it to the police or cyber cell.

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