The security of the devices that are connected to the Internet dominates the national and international headlines.

What is the saying? Think globally, but act locally?

Nothing could be truer when it comes to your video surveillance systems.

So, what can you do to protect your systems from external intrusion?

Well, don’t connect your recorders to the Internet. But then, so much for remote management, mobile access, email notifications and automatic updates.

There are some very simple things you can do to protect your systems and get the most from their connected features.

Believe it or not, many people do not change the default passwords or usernames of their products.

So, first and foremost, CHANGE THE DEFAULT PASSWORDS OF YOUR CAMERAS AND RECORDERS!

In fact, it might be a good idea to make a schedule to change your passwords regularly.

Additionally, some recorders and cameras provide secondary methods to password protect the streaming protocol you choose to use. This is a good reason to read your manuals.

Digital Watchdog^® has done something unique regarding the cybersecurity of our VMAX^® IP Plus™ NVRs and MEGApix^® cameras. Our clever acronym is CCIP™, which stands for “Closed Circuit Internet Protocol.” This easy-to-use feature allows you to assign a separate password between the camera and recorder. If someone somehow breaches your NVR, they will be able to see that there are cameras attached, but they won’t be able to see the video streams.

Manufacturers provide many tools to help you protect your connected devices from outside intrusion. Like seat belts, they can be very effective if we use them.