Burglars are Jamming Wi-Fi Cameras to Break-In
In February, Kare11 News reported Edina police uncovered a string of break-ins where the burglars used a Wi-Fi jammer to knock out Wi-Fi-enabled security cameras. A Wi-Fi jammer confuses the camera by overloading wireless traffic so the video feed cannot get through. Without a functioning camera, the burglars can enter a home undetected. In another example, komando.com reported about a Detroit woman whose car was stolen right in front of her house. When she tried to view her Ring doorbell video footage, there was none. According to komando.com, Ring is aware of this issue and notes the latter incident is rare. However, there’s no word on a fix at this time. While there may not be a solution to thwart burglars using a Wi-Fi jammer with Ring doorbells, there are steps homeowners and businesses can take to protect their camera security and Wi-Fi router. In this month’s blog, we’ll explore ways you can stay ahead of burglars using Wi-Fi jamming devices and protect yourself.
(PoE) and Hardwired Cameras VS Wi-Fi Enabled Cameras
While there may not be a solution to thwart burglars using a Wi-Fi jammer with Ring doorbells, homeowners and businesses have other options to ensure an eye is always watching their property. For example, you could look at a hardwired or PoE camera (Power over Ethernet camera). PoE cameras receive power and transmit video via ethernet cables, eliminating the risk of wireless jamming. Alternatively, cameras that use SIM cards for mobile network communication offer a more robust signal that is harder to jam, although this option tends to be more expensive.
Local recording with PoE cameras also addresses cloud storage cost and latency issues, providing improved privacy, lower costs, and faster data transfers. Additionally, setting up a smart home system to regularly check the status of your cameras can alert you to potential jamming attacks promptly, enabling quicker responses.
Ramp Up Your Wi-Fi Security
As Wi-Fi jamming becomes more prevalent, homeowners and businesses must adopt proactive measures to safeguard their camera surveillance systems. While Wi-Fi cameras offer convenience and ease of installation, their susceptibility to jamming necessitates additional security measures. Below are some things to consider and act on to protect your Wi-Fi camera:
• Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Implement 2FA to enhance security, making it harder for unauthorized users to access your cameras.
• Strong Password Practices: Ensure all accounts and devices have strong, unique passwords to prevent hacking attempts.
• Regular Updates: Keep your security cameras updated to reduce vulnerability to new hacking techniques.
• Disable Remote Access: Turn off remote administration features unless absolutely necessary, to minimize potential access points for hackers.
• Monitor Camera Status: Set up alerts to notify you if a camera goes offline, enabling you to investigate potential jamming attempts immediately.
RB’s Computer Service Can Help You With Wi-Fi Security
There are several things to consider when it comes to Wi-Fi security, but a good place to start is to check what type of router you are using. Most homeowners and many small business owners use a “consumer-grade” router vs a “commercial-grade” router. Consumer-grade routers are slightly less expensive than a commercial-grade routers and prioritize speed vs security. Nevertheless, RB’s Computer Service offers lots of affordable commercial-grade routers that are fast and place a premium on security. If you think you are using a consumer-grade router and need help upgrading to a commercial-grade router, contact us today at 763-441-3884 or email us at help@rbsmn.com.
Another option is to consider https://simplisafe.com. They offer advanced technology with professional monitoring. These systems are designed to protect against various threats and ensure that trained security experts are available 24/7 when needed. Customizing a SimpliSafe system can provide an additional layer of security and peace of mind.
Bottom Line
Wi-Fi jamming is a growing concern for homeowners and businesses relying on wireless security cameras. By understanding the risks and implementing strategic measures, you can enhance the security of your surveillance system and protect against tech-savvy burglars. Whether through the use of PoE cameras, regular system updates, or by getting help from RB’s Computer Service, staying informed and proactive is the key to maintaining effective surveillance and safeguarding your property. In addition to Wi-Fi security, RB’s Computer offers ransomware protection, managed IT services, and smartphone screen repair, and we can help with installing, upgrading to, or troubleshooting Windows 10 & 11. Contact us today at 763-441-3884 or email us at help@rbsmn.com.
References
https://www.komando.com/news/security/crooks-jamming-security-cameras/
https://www.helpnetsecurity.com/2024/04/15/ip-surveillance-cameras/
https://www.pcworld.com/article/2405434/burglars-are-jamming-wi-fi-security-cameras.html