CCTV Scam Alert! CCTV at Home? Beware—Hackers May Be Watching Your Private Moments

New Delhi, April 15, 2025 — If you have CCTV cameras installed at home, it's time to be extra cautious. Cybercriminals are now targeting home surveillance systems, not just for data theft, but also to blackmail users by leaking their private footage online. India’s cybersecurity watchdog, CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team), has issued an urgent alert warning citizens about this growing threat.

Earlier, most online frauds involved phishing links or fake websites stealing banking details. But the new wave of cybercrimes invades people’s private lives by hacking into household CCTV cameras. The hackers gain unauthorized access to surveillance footage and use it to extort money from victims. This is not just a privacy breach—it’s a serious emotional and financial threat.

How Do Hackers Access CCTV Cameras?

1. Default Passwords
   Most users do not bother changing the default login credentials of their CCTV systems. Hackers scan the internet for such vulnerable devices, and if they find one with basic passwords like “admin” or “1234,” they can gain access in seconds.

2. Unsecured Mobile Apps or Cloud Platforms
   Many CCTV systems rely on third-party mobile apps or cloud services for remote access. If these apps are poorly secured, hackers can easily intercept live feeds.

3. Public IP and Port Forwarding
   Some cameras are directly accessible via public IPs with port forwarding enabled. This exposes them to brute force or scripted attacks through web browsers.

4. Phishing Scams & Fake Tech Support Calls
   Scammers often pose as technical support agents, urging users to update their systems. They trick people into installing remote access tools like AnyDesk, allowing full control over devices.

Common Tactics in CCTV Camera Scams

• Blackmail Using Private Recordings
  Hackers extract sensitive footage and threaten to share it on social media unless a ransom is paid.

• Fake Service Expiry Calls
  Fraudsters call victims claiming that their CCTV system subscription has expired and demand payment for updates or renewals.

• Threats of Viral Leaks
  Victims are warned their videos will be posted online. Often, these threats are fake, but fear pushes people into paying.

How to Stay Safe from CCTV Hacking

✅ Change the default password immediately and use strong, unique credentials.
✅ Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for additional security.
✅ Only download camera-related apps from official Play Store or App Store.
✅ Be wary of unsolicited tech support calls or suspicious messages.
✅ Secure your Wi-Fi router and keep firmware updated.