Artemis Marketing: How to Protect Your Business CCTV from Cyber Attacks | Member News

Most commercial business premises, be they shared, managed, or private, are made inherently safer with the integration of best-in-class CCTV. In dynamic regions like East Lancashire, with businesses expanding rapidly, CCTV surveillance remains an irreplaceable tool, offering complete reassurance and peace of mind knowing that properties are being watched over, particularly when they are vacant or temporarily unoccupied.

That said, the modern cyber threat landscape is far more sophisticated than most people realise, and CCTV systems can be exploited if not reinforced or protected. With the rise of smart technology and interconnectivity between devices, on-site risks like thefts, vandalism or trespassing are now joined by the more covert and insidious threats located in the cybersphere. Malicious actors can compromise systems and hardware and threaten sensitive data, which makes it even more pivotal that CCTV systems are equipped to withstand an onslaught like this.

Why CCTV Cybersecurity Matters

Business CCTV systems have evolved significantly from the closed-circuit setups they once were. They're now inherently more intricate and digital, offering remote accessibility and flexibility. That does, however, increase their risk exposure, with attackers able to gain access to not just footage, but business assets, records and networks that these camera systems feed off. The layout of a premises could be exposed, and digital attacks could also coincide with physical intrusions or trespassing, making it highly difficult for business assets to stay secure.

For many SMEs in East Lancashire (and beyond), CCTV is particularly vital for protecting premises during extended periods of vacancy. This could be due to renovations, seasonal closures or relocations. For instance, solutions offered by providers like Maltaward, who specialise in CCTV installation for vacant properties, illustrate how robust monitoring can be integrated with wider barrier and security product offerings.

With that in mind, it's prudent to explore the common types of cyber threats that exist within CCTV systems and how you, as a business owner, can better safeguard your systems, alongside your assets, inventory and intelligence.

Most Common CCTV Cyber Threats

• Weak or default login credentials: These are easily predictable and often published online. Attackers look for devices with default settings, gaining access with minimal effort.
• Unpatched firmware and software: Without updates, CCTV systems may be exposed to known vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit.
• Unsecured network connections: If CCTV operates over a poorly protected network, attackers can intercept data or take control remotely.
• Physical theft or tampering: While cyber risks are the focus, devices must also be protected from opportunistic intruders who could steal or disable cameras.

Key Practices to Strengthen CCTV Security

• Change default credentials immediately: Use strong, unique passwords for every device, blending letters, numbers, and special characters. Never reuse passwords across systems.
• Regularly update firmware: Manufacturers issue security patches to counteract new threats. Schedule routine updates for both cameras and recorders, and always double-check after any maintenance work.
• Segment CCTV networks: Isolate CCTV systems from the rest of the office network using VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) or separate routers. This minimises the chance of a breach cascading to other business systems.
• Secure your physical hardware: Position recording equipment (such as digital and network video recorders) in locked rooms or cabinets.
• Invest in professional installation: Work with reputable installers who understand both physical and cybersecurity protocols. Regular maintenance and oversight can reduce gaps in protection.
• Monitor for suspicious activity: Select systems that provide push notifications or alerts when settings are changed, footage is accessed, or attempts are made to log in from unknown locations.

CCTV cyber threats are just some of the types of attacks that are evolving rapidly; what secures a system today may be inadequate next year. It is crucial for SMEs to remain vigilant by staying informed about best practices, emerging risks, and upgrades in surveillance technology. Partnering with professionals and reliable providers will keep systems secure as both threats and solutions develop.

Stay Alert and Secure

Treat your CCTV as part of your wider cyber security planning. Strong passwords, network segmentation and regular updates should be non-negotiable; likewise, professional advice can save time and headaches in the long run. For vacant or high-risk properties, specialised, tailored options should be integrated into a strategy for robust, layered security.

East Lancashire's SME community is busy, innovative, and often stretched, and is not just a target for physical threats, but for digital ones too. Stay proactive, secure your systems, and consult experts for long-term protection.