Reports that insecure webcams around the world were targeted by hackers has highlighted security concerns around the growing home surveillance category.
Footage from CCTV networks, home surveillance systems and baby monitors was accessed and broadcast by a Russian website taking advantage of weak passwords, or default passwords that come with a product.
“The website, which is based in Russia, accesses the information by using the default login credentials, which are freely available online, for thousands of cameras,” Simon Rice, group manager for technology, Britain’s Information Commissioner’s Office said in a statement.
This is a growing category for Uniden, which has invested heavily in establishing its line-up of wireless digital survelliance products over recent years. This particular security breach can be avoided by using best practice password protection.
Brad Hales Uniden national marketing communications manager said, “Uniden cameras have a username and password that we encourage users to change and update frequently.”
Uniden’s Guardian line-up of digital wireless surveillance products offer a plug and play solution suitable for homes or small businesses, without the need for professional installation, making it important for retailers to remind consumers of the need to protect their data.
Uniden has announced two new products in this category; the Guardian App Cam 25 is a weatherproof HD surveillance camera that will be available in November for RRP $149, and the Guardian App Cam 26, an indoor HD surveillance camera, available January 2015 for RRP $199.
The system works by connecting the standalone App Cam to a smartphone or tablet via Wi-Fi. The Guardian App — free for both iOS and Android smartphones and tablets — allows users to record and watch files remotely from a smartphone or tablet.
“Smartphone and tablet usage continues to grow and we are targeting consumers who simply want a one or two camera setup accessed via a platform they are comfortable and familiar with,” Hales said.
“The two new release products in our DIY Guardian wireless surveillance series are both HD camera models giving you the clearest surveillance footage available. The weatherproof design of the App Cam 25, suitable for outdoor use, and the indoor App Cam 26 will be popular for residential users and budget-conscious businesses.”
The new App Cam series records footage in HD 720p high quality video and still images, and can be stored via a micro SD card slot. Each of the new cameras has ultra-night vision with infrared LEDs on camera lens to deliver clear footage, even in dim lighting.
The App Cam 26 also has a walkie talkie function, allowing users to communicate through the indoor camera and the Guardian app using their smartphone or tablet. The App Cam 26 also has a pan and tilt function allowing users to view wide areas and control the camera wirelessly using the free app and a smartphone or tablet.