At LaView, we specialize in DIY, user-friendly Security solutions for everyone. Our systems are designed specifically for seamless installation and plug and play connectivity. When you set up your system and start recording, it can be easy to forget that you are using technology that needs to be kept secure. Your safety and privacy are high enough priorities that you sought out security solutions for you, your loved ones and your property. But did you stop and think about extra layers of security that your system requires? We expect our security systems to protect us, but do we really ever think about security for our security? Probably not. So, let’s talk about how we can take steps to safeguard our security systems from hackers.

Change Default Usernames and Passwords

This may seem like a no-brainer, but people tend to skip through password resetting options when setting up new devices and accounts. This can be a huge mistake as hackers are always looking for the easiest possible route to your private information. Do yourself a favor and don’t make it simple for potential data thieves. Default usernames and Passwords are easier to guess and find, creating a straighforward avenue for hackers to breach your sensitive information. Take the extra minute to change these and help protect yourself.

Use Different, Complex Passwords

Along with changing default usernames and passwords, you should also vary them so that they do not match your other important accounts. In the unfortunate (and unlikely) case that a hacker makes his or her way into your security system, you don’t want that to be an opening of floodgates to all your other sensitive information. Your passwords for your security system, your main email, your bank account and other accounts with crucial information should not match. Get creative and use long, complex passwords with different usernames. The more sophisticated the passwords, the better. Consider keeping an accessible hard copy of your passwords in case they are too long and hard to remember.

Avoid Public Wi-Fi

Do your best to avoid public Wi-Fi when accessing your cameras. The beauty of having a LaView security system is that you can access your live footage via the mobile app anytime, anywhere. This remains true, you just need to be thoughtful about the wireless network you are using while accessing your cameras. Using free Wi-Fi at the local coffee shop may not be the best idea when you are connecting to your home cameras. Public Wi-Fi networks are, by nature, less secure than private networks. They tend to be extremely vulnerable to hackers, acting as a middle-man for them to infiltrate your system.

Keep Your Camera Up to Date

Updating your tech can feel like a hassle sometimes. How often do we hit, “Remind Me Later” on our smartphones instead of just taking a few minutes to update? Probably all the time, right? When it comes to your home security system, you’ll encounter less updates than your mobile device, but they are exponentially more important (at least for security purposes). Keeping up with firmware updates will ensure that your system has the best possible defense against malware.

Trust the Cloud!

If you have the option to use a secure cloud-based storage service, do it! Previously, LaView only offered local hard drive-based storage. With the introduction of the ONE Series, our cameras will have cloud storage options for those who would want to maximize their storage capacity and safety. The cloud uses bank-grade encryption as well as user credential requirements to ensure that no one can access your cameras and sensitive data. Securing your all-important recordings with the cloud service is the future of home security.

Keep it Local

“Locals Only” is usually a saying you find at surf-centric beaches or kitschy diners of the like, but it may be a phrase you want to adopt for your security. Cloud storage is the future of the industry and provides a secure storage location, but there will always be those who prefer to keep their cameras contained to local usage only. This means recording strictly on a microSD (when available) or an NVR. If you choose to go that route, you will lose features like remote viewing on your mobile device or being able to access 2-way audio and other remote controls. That being said, hackers would basically have no entry point to your cameras if they are not connected to any form of internet. This is likely not the best option as the features you’ll sacrifice without connecting your cameras to the internet probably outweigh the benefit of securing your cameras. But, this local option is worth mentioning as you explore options to secure your system.

Take Extra Measures

Every camera system is different with security options that range from very little to advanced. We suggest getting to know your cameras and system and determining what built-in security options they have to offer. If available, enable encryption in your camera’s administrative tools. Once you have your camera system set up to your specifications, don’t share your login credentials with anyone! Beware of suspicious emails or any third party asking for your login credentials. No one wants to be the victim of identity theft or feel like they are being watched by some creepy person through their own cameras. Unfortunately, other than slower or worse than usual performance, it is extremely difficult to identify when your camera is hacked. So, take our advice and follow the steps to guard yourself from potential hackers!