How to Secure Your IP Camera and Prevent Unauthorized Access
Millions of IP cameras are exposed online due to default passwords and poor configuration. Learn how to protect yours from hackers and ensure your privacy.
Why IP Camera Security Matters
IP cameras (also called network cameras or security cameras) connect directly to your network and the internet. While this provides convenience for remote monitoring, it also creates security vulnerabilities that hackers actively exploit.
Websites like Shodan and Insecam index thousands of unsecured cameras broadcasting live feeds to anyone who looks. Your camera could be among them.
Step 1: Change Default Credentials Immediately
The #1 way hackers access IP cameras is through default usernames and passwords. Many cameras ship with credentials like:
| Brand | Default Username | Default Password |
|---|---|---|
| Hikvision | admin | 12345 |
| Dahua | admin | admin |
| Axis | root | pass |
| Foscam | admin | (blank) |
| TP-Link | admin | admin |
Use a password with at least 12 characters including uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols. Never reuse passwords from other accounts.
Step 2: Update Firmware Regularly
Camera manufacturers release firmware updates to patch security vulnerabilities. An outdated camera is an easy target.
- Check your manufacturer's website monthly for updates
- Enable automatic updates if available
- Subscribe to security advisories from your camera brand
- Consider replacing cameras that no longer receive updates
Step 3: Disable UPnP and Port Forwarding
UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) automatically opens ports on your router, potentially exposing your camera to the internet without your knowledge.
- Disable UPnP in both your router and camera settings
- Avoid port forwarding ports 80, 8080, 554 (RTSP), or 443 to your camera
- Use a VPN to access your cameras remotely instead of direct exposure
Our Surveillance Camera Map tool shows how easily exposed cameras can be found online.
Step 4: Enable HTTPS and Encryption
Ensure your camera uses encrypted connections to prevent eavesdropping:
- Enable HTTPS: Forces encrypted web interface connections
- Use RTSP over TLS: Encrypts video streams
- Check for SRTP support: Secure Real-time Transport Protocol for video
- Disable Telnet/SSH: If not needed, turn off remote management protocols
Step 5: Segment Your Network
Isolate your cameras from your main network to limit damage if one is compromised:
- Create a separate VLAN for IoT devices and cameras
- Use a guest network if VLAN isn't available
- Set firewall rules to prevent cameras from accessing other devices
- Block outbound internet if cloud features aren't needed
Step 6: Check If Your Camera Is Exposed
Use these tools to verify your camera isn't publicly accessible:
Use our Port Checker to scan ports 80, 443, 554, 8080, and 8443 on your public IP.
Search your IP on Shodan.io to see if any camera services are indexed.
Use our What Is My IP tool to find your public IP address.
Quick Security Checklist
- ✓ Changed default username and password
- ✓ Updated to latest firmware
- ✓ Disabled UPnP on router and camera
- ✓ Enabled HTTPS for web interface
- ✓ Disabled remote access ports (or using VPN)
- ✓ Camera is on isolated network segment
- ✓ Verified camera is not publicly indexed
Conclusion
Securing your IP camera only takes a few minutes but protects your privacy indefinitely. The steps above will ensure your camera stays a security tool rather than a security vulnerability.
For ongoing protection, periodically re-check your camera's exposure using the tools mentioned above, and always stay updated on the latest security patches from your manufacturer.