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Today, there are billions of different devices, from tablets to smartphones, that are capable of storing and transmitting data over the Internet. With the increasing amount of data that is generated, shared, stored and accessed through cloud computing models, it is critical to protect against potential vulnerabilities of networked solutions. Perhaps especially true is insuring that there can be no unauthorized access to images of security surveillance cameras in critical installations by hackers.
Hacking has become a real concern, and it has affected most industries within the Channel and outside of it. From security cameras to phones, devices that sync to the cloud come with vulnerabilities. The concern with the cybersecurity of cameras, in particular, is increasing. This is important, theoretically, any device connected to the security network can be explored by unauthorized persons if hacked. But that does not mean that any camera from any manufacturer is equally vulnerable to potential attacks. There are products that are far more vulnerable than others; this all depends on the actions taken by both the manufacturer and the user.
In fact, having higher protection against cyber threats depends on the digital and IT policy of the company or organization, in combination with an appropriate risk analysis. It is possible to create safer systems by reducing more exposed areas and mitigate risks, including considerations on the manufacturer’s commitment to the issue of cybersecurity and how important it is to protect privacy and respect inaccessibility to camera images by malicious external agents.
As video surveillance camera systems will continue to be increasingly connected, due to great benefits such as remote access or third party integration, it is key to carry out a risk assessment and implement security policies in the design and implementation of a video system IP. Risk assessments have been a common practice in the development of video surveillance systems and the configuration of network video devices.
It is of utmost importance to reduce the area of exposure to these risks and to minimize the surface of attack as a measure of cyber protection. If devices, services, and applications do not need to interact, the user should try to limit the connectivity between them. In addition, segmenting the kernel video system is a good measure of overall protection, which reduces the risks of adversely affecting business resources.
The process of obtaining a secure system – or its reinforcement – includes a configuration strategy tailored to the specific needs of the user to deal with the changing threat landscape. A first step is the understanding and use of industry-standard security protocols, including multi-level user authentication / authorization by password, SSL / TLS encryption, and 802.1 X, IP filtering and certificate management.
In addition, it is critical that the smart camera manufacturer continually update its firmware with new features, bug fixes and security patches. To address the increased range and volume of risks, users need to be aware of updates from their vendors and pay special attention to best practices for attack prevention through network-based systems. The overall security in the future depends on the elections in the present, and if 100 percent cannot be shielded against possible attacks, the market already notices that there are more vulnerable roads than others.
As technology develops, so too do hacking methods. Additionally, as we incorporate more solutions into our businesses, our sales portfolio, and our lives, we open ourselves up to more diverse threats in the cybersecurity sphere. It’s important, as a VAR selling security solutions or as a business adopting them into their own professional space, to ensure that your IT department is up to date on the issue of cybersecurity, and knowledgeable about the diverse types of solutions and products available in today’s market.
Co-Contributor: Karen Vilma-Diaz
