Bypassing Security: How Hackers Can Infiltrate Surveillance Cameras

Hikvision and Dahua lead the world in the production of surveillance cameras, but deficiencies have recently been discovered in their security systems.

With the help of a hacker, BBC Panorama conducted an investigation to test the security of these Chinese-made surveillance cameras, with the results being even more grim than we thought.

These two Chinese brands compose the majority of security cameras used in the UK – from houses and privately-owned properties to local councils and government-related establishments. 

Demonstrating the Infiltration

BBC Panorama recently ran an investigation regarding the reliability of these Chinese-made surveillance cameras. Through a joint effort with a hacker, BBC set up a darkened studio inside its Broadcasting House in London and acted swiftly. 

Starting with a demonstration of how these hackers can hack them, an oblivious BBC employee was the unlucky target. Even in the darkened studio, the hacker can see everything he does through the lens of a hijacked security camera. 

Personal things, such as entering his phone’s passcode, the interior of his surroundings, and everything he’s typing on the laptop. Every single action the employee takes is seen and monitored by the hacker. 

Read Also: What Is Ethical Hacking? Here’s How It Helps Make Blockchain More Secured

Risks and Caution

UK’s Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner, Professor Fraser Sampson, warned that the crucial infrastructure in the country, including access to clean food and water, transport networks, and power supplies, is vulnerable.

“All those things rely very heavily on remote surveillance – so if you have an ability to interfere with that, you can create mayhem, cheaply and remotely,” Sampson said.

Charles Parton, a fellow at Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) and a former diplomat who worked in Beijing, seemed to agree and said: “We’ve all seen the Italian Job in our youth, where you bring the whole of Turin to a halt through the traffic light system. Well, that might have been…