Online forums and social media posts are increasingly stating terrifying but anecdotal stories about Bluetooth monitoring devices that parents are using as Baby monitors. So, we are asking, how safe are Bluetooth Baby Monitors to buy to check on our little ones when we are not in the room? Is there a reason to worry about using one of the most used items of technology for babies? 

Bluetooth baby monitors: What is a Bluetooth Monitoring Device?

Bluetooth baby monitors are devices that connect to your smartphone or tablet using Bluetooth so that your phone or tablet acts as the receiver for the video and sound picked up by the monitor. These devices are becoming increasingly popular as you can set the account up to access the feed and then link multiple smart devices to the account so both parents can see the feed.

You can also check the baby monitor feed, once linked to your device, when you are away from home. This means that you are able to reassure yourself that your little one is sleeping soundly, even if you are away from home. 

Concerns

Reports have been made on social media, in addition to videos of the monitor camera moving of its own accord, which have understandably given parents concerns about using this type of baby monitor. However, with sales still increasing for this type of baby monitor, there are clearly divided opinions regarding the safety of using this product. 

There have been rigorous user testing and independent reviews completed regarding the safety of this type of baby monitor. Due to the baby monitor being connected via Bluetooth/WiFi to other devices within your home, there is the possibility of any of the devices in the chain being hacked. 

However, it has been made clear that this situation is not the norm and there have not been independently verified cases of this type of monitor being hacked. With the ability to move the camera angle and camera movement via the app, this could be faked when the videos are being posted online. 

It is also important to note that audio-only baby monitors can also receive interference. Using a radio frequency to connect the baby monitor and the receiver means that if someone else is on the same frequency, they can access the audio feed.

Minimizing Risks

As with all types of devices, there are ways that you can minimize the risks of using Bluetooth baby monitors. This includes ensuring that you buy a trusted and respected brand of baby monitor, which will ensure that all safety and security protocols have been and will continue to be followed. 

You should also ensure that you only choose a model that has an encrypted Bluetooth connection. Using a baby monitor that has appropriate encryption levels are no less safe than any other encrypted connection that you use day-to-day. 

Ensure that you have a password-protected account when using a Bluetooth baby monitor, as this will afford an additional level of protection if a hacker does attempt to access your baby monitor. 

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