8 Signs Your Smart Security System Has Been Hacked

How often do you check your smart security system? You hooked everything up, and unless something happens, you probably just assume everything’s working normally. But, what if it’s been hacked and it’s being used to spy on you? They could learn your routine and break in or see passwords and security codes as you enter them. They could even see extremely intimate details of your personal life.

Check your system at least once a week for signs of a hack.

1. Cameras Are Repositioned

One of the most obvious signs your smart security system has been hacked is your cameras are repositioned. If they’re tilted or angled in any way that you didn’t do, disconnect them from the network immediately. It’s possible they were just physically bumped, but check your phone or computer to see where they’re facing. Also, ask if anyone else in the house might have changed them. Otherwise, hackers may be slightly adjusting your cameras to see better.

2. Unusual Traffic

This one’s a little trickier to check. Surges in network traffic may signal that a hacker is actively watching you through your security cameras. Some routers have built-in tools to let you monitor network usage. However, many don’t. You can check by accessing your router’s settings. Third-party firmware tools allow you to see the usage yourself. One of the most popular and compatible options is DD-WRT. If you want to see individual device usage, you’ll also need the additional monitor for DD-WRT called DD-WRT BBMON. Follow the documentation, which is provided on their respective sites, for the firmware and then monitor carefully.

Your ISP can also tell you if something isn’t right. If you don’t want to change your router’s firmware, contact your ISP. If they already provide data monitoring tools, use them to check for sudden spikes.

3. Indoor Indicator Lights

Sometimes it’s difficult to keep an eye on your outdoor camera lights. However, your indoor camera indicator lights are usually only on if they’re currently in use. If you don’t usually have your indoor cameras recording while you’re home, an indicator light means someone is watching you. It’s also possible your system is updating, but you can contact the smart security system company to double-check.

4. Login History Is Suspicious

To take control of your security system, hackers have to log in. Since you likely have an app that stays logged in all the time, you probably never check your login history. At least weekly, check for any additional logins. This is especially true if they come from different areas or devices. It’s sometimes a more subtle but clear sign something’s wrong.

5. Password Changed

The single most obvious sign your smart security system has been hacked is your password is changed. If you’ve just forgotten your password, that’s different. However, if you know for certain your password is correct, you’ve probably been hacked. Contact the security company immediately to reset your password and regain control. The company will also be able to tell you when the password was reset to ensure it’s not just your kids or friends messing with you.

6. You Notice Strange Sounds

If your security system has two-way audio, a hacker might accidentally give their presence away. While many are smart enough to mute their own mics, some don’t think about it. If you notice any odd sounds or human voices coming from your security system, you may have been hacked.

7. Footage Is Missing or Changed

For this one, the problem could just be issues with the system itself. Data might not have transferred correctly, or your local storage may be corrupted. However, if everything seems to be okay but the footage is missing or has been changed, a hacker is likely to blame. Of course, check with others living in your home to make sure they haven’t done it first. Scroll through your footage at the end of each week to check for any noticeable problems.

8. Issues with Other Devices

Your home network supports numerous devices. If one device gets hacked, all of your other devices are vulnerable too. This is also why it’s vital to use different passwords for different devices. For example, a hacker might just get your smart security system password but not your network password. They can control your system but not hack other devices yet.

If you notice other smart home devices, or even your computer or phone, are acting strangely, those devices might have been hacked. Look at everything, such as your thermostat and smart speakers. Issues mean your security system is at risk too.

Overall, these are relatively simple things to check. Turn these checks into a regular schedule for peace of mind and better home security.