How to Prevent CCTV System Hacking in Kenya
With increasing cyber threats, protecting your CCTV system from hacking is as important as the physical security it provides.
Why CCTV Systems Get Hacked
Common Vulnerabilities:
1. Default Passwords: 80% of breaches use default credentials
2. Outdated Firmware: Unpatched security holes
3. Open Ports: Direct internet exposure
4. Weak Encryption: Easy to intercept footage
5. Poor Network Security: Shared with unsecured devices
Real Consequences in Kenya:
Business espionagePrivacy violationsSystem manipulationFootage deletionRansomware attacksEssential Security Measures
1. Change Default Credentials
Immediately change:
Admin username (not "admin")Strong password (12+ characters)Different passwords for each deviceExample Strong Password:
Weak: admin123Strong: Ed$0n_Secur!ty_2024#NBI2. Update Firmware Regularly
Why It Matters:
Patches security vulnerabilitiesFixes known exploitsImproves performanceHow Often:
Check monthly for updatesApply critical patches immediatelySubscribe to manufacturer alerts3. Network Segmentation
Create Separate Networks:
Network 1: Office computers, WiFiNetwork 2: CCTV cameras onlyNetwork 3: IoT devicesBenefits:
Breach in one network doesn't affect CCTVBetter bandwidth managementEasier monitoring4. Use VPN for Remote Access
Never:
Port forward directly to DVR/NVRUse manufacturer cloud services blindlyAccess over public WiFi without VPNAlways:
Set up business VPNUse encrypted connectionsEnable two-factor authentication5. Enable Encryption
What to Encrypt:
Video streams (HTTPS/SSL)Stored footageNetwork trafficRemote accessHow:
Enable HTTPS in camera settingsUse encrypted hard drivesConfigure SSL certificatesAdvanced Protection
Firewall Configuration
Block:
All incoming connections by defaultUnnecessary portsForeign IP addressesAllow Only:
Specific IP addressesRequired ports (usually 37777, 554)VPN connectionsIntrusion Detection
Monitor For:
Failed login attemptsUnusual access timesBandwidth spikesConfiguration changesTools:
Network monitoring softwareSIEM systemsLog analysisPhysical Security
Protect Hardware:
Lock DVR/NVR in secure roomSecure network cablesUse tamper-proof camera housingsInstall UPS with network protectionMonthly Security Checklist
Week 1:
[ ] Check for firmware updates[ ] Review access logs[ ] Test backup systems[ ] Verify all cameras recordingWeek 2:
[ ] Audit user accounts[ ] Check password expiry[ ] Review network traffic[ ] Test remote accessWeek 3:
[ ] Verify encryption status[ ] Check hard drive health[ ] Review security alerts[ ] Update documentationWeek 4:
[ ] Conduct security audit[ ] Test disaster recovery[ ] Train staff on new threats[ ] Plan next month's improvementsWarning Signs of Compromise
Immediate Red Flags:
Cameras going offline randomlyFootage gaps or deletionsSlow network performanceUnknown users in logsConfiguration changes you didn't makeWhat to Do:
1. Disconnect system from internet immediately
2. Change all passwords
3. Check logs for unauthorized access
4. Contact security professional
5. Document everything for investigation
Cost of Prevention vs. Breach
Prevention Investment:
VPN setup: KES 20,000 - 40,000Network segmentation: KES 30,000 - 60,000Security audit: KES 15,000 - 30,000Total: KES 65,000 - 130,000Average Breach Cost:
System replacement: KES 200,000+Lost footage evidence: PricelessBusiness disruption: KES 500,000+Reputation damage: IncalculableTotal: KES 700,000+Compliance Considerations
Data Protection Act 2019:
Secure storage requirementsAccess control mandatesBreach notification rulesPrivacy by designNon-Compliance Penalties:
Fines up to KES 5,000,000Legal liabilityBusiness closure ordersProfessional Security Assessment
What We Provide:
1. Vulnerability Scan: Identify weak points
2. Penetration Testing: Attempt controlled breach
3. Security Hardening: Implement protections
4. Staff Training: Cybersecurity awareness
5. Ongoing Monitoring: 24/7 threat detection
Investment:
Basic Assessment: KES 25,000Complete Security Audit: KES 80,000Managed Security: KES 15,000/monthConclusion
CCTV cybersecurity isn't optional—it's essential. A hacked system is worse than no system at all.
EdsonConveyors offers:
Secure CCTV installationsCybersecurity assessmentsNetwork hardeningStaff training24/7 monitoringContact us to secure your surveillance system today!
