How Do I Block Access to My Camera?

In today’s connected world, the security of your video surveillance system is paramount. The goal is to keep an eye on your property, not to let the world keep an eye on you. Blocking unauthorized access to your cameras is a multi-layered process that involves securing your network, managing who can view the footage, and choosing the right hardware. An open, unsecured camera is a significant privacy risk, but thankfully, there are concrete steps you can take to lock it down.

This guide from Sac Video Surveillance Pros will cover the essential methods for blocking unwanted access and ensuring your camera system remains a private, secure asset.

Fortifying Your Network: The First Line of Defense

Your cameras are connected to your network, making network security the single most important factor in preventing unauthorized access. If a hacker can get into your network, they can get to your cameras.

• Change Default Passwords Immediately: Never, ever use the default username and password that come with your cameras, recorder (NVR), or router. These are publicly known and are the first thing attackers try. Create long, complex, and unique passwords for every device.
• Use Strong Wi-Fi Encryption: Ensure your router’s wireless security is set to WPA3 or, at a minimum, WPA2. Older standards like WEP and WPA are easily cracked.
• Create a Separate Network (VLAN): This is a key professional strategy. A Virtual LAN (VLAN) isolates your security cameras onto their own private network, separate from your other devices (like computers, phones, and smart TVs). This way, even if another device on your main network is compromised, the infection cannot spread to your secure camera system.
• Disable Unnecessary Features: Features like UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) and port forwarding are designed for convenience but can open security holes. A professional installer will disable any other unnecessary services, minimizing the ways an attacker could potentially get in.

Managing Who Has Access: User Permissions and Controls

Blocking access isn’t just about stopping external threats; it’s also about controlling who on the inside can view or manage your system. This is especially critical for businesses with multiple employees.

• Implement the Principle of Least Privilege: Don’t give every user full administrative rights. A “user” account should only be able to view live or recorded video. An “administrator” account is required to change settings, delete footage, or add other users.
• Audit User Accounts Regularly: If an employee leaves the company, their access must be revoked immediately. Periodically review your list of users to ensure everyone on it still requires access.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): If your system supports it, enable 2FA. This requires a user to provide a second piece of information (like a code from their phone) in addition to their password, making it exponentially harder for an unauthorized person to log in even if they’ve stolen a password.

The Professional Advantage: A Secure System by Design

While the steps above are crucial, the most reliable way to block access is to have a system designed for security from the ground up. This involves selecting the right equipment and configuring it with an expert understanding of network security.

At Sac Video Surveillance Pros, we prioritize security in every installation. A core part of our service is ensuring you know exactly how to protect your camera from physical threats, which goes hand-in-hand with digital security. By combining physical hardening, smart configuration, and robust network protocols, we ensure your cameras are for your eyes only.