Security Researchers: Baby Monitors Prone to Hacking

Security firm Rapid7 has discovered common security flaws with nine Internet-connected baby video monitors.

Video baby monitors are not as secure as many people believe. In fact, researchers are now saying that several brands of baby monitors are susceptible to attacks by hackers.

Rapid7, a security firm based in Boston, discovered common security flaws with nine Internet-connected baby monitors it reviewed, UPI.com reported.

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Researchers examined iBaby Labs monitor, which allows registered owners to log on and view a live feed of their child. The security firm found that hacker could randomly guess a password an unlimited number of times in an effort to access the same feed.

Rapid7 found that the Philips brand assigns the same default username and password to its monitoring cameras, meaning an uninitiated system could be hacked into.

Meanwhile, Summer Infant’s devices allow any user who knows a camera’s ID number to create an account for access, according to the security firm.

RELATED: Researchers: Samsung Smart TVs Susceptible to Hackers

For consumers who believe buying a more expensive camera will bring better security features, researchers warn that that’s not necessarily the best idea. Rather, the weak points in the monitors are part of a growing problem with the Internet of Things.

The security firm urged baby monitor users to check for security updates often, and create stronger passwords.

As a result of Rapid7’s findings, Philips plans to address its products’ vulnerabilities. Summer Infant also plans to increase security for its customers.

Meanwhile, long-time SSI contributor Jeff Zwirn, who pens the “Security Science” column, discussed baby video monitoring hacking vulnerabilities on Fox News. Check out the video below, where Zwirn offers the safest alternatives for baby monitors.

 

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