Phones, computers & home
How to secure smart cameras, doorbells and other smart home devices
Smart cameras, doorbells, speakers, plugs and baby monitors are convenient, but each one is a small computer connected to your home network, and some cameras point at the most private parts of your life. A few settings make a big difference.
The short version
Lock them down
- Change default passwords and turn on two-step verification in the app.
- Keep firmware and apps updated.
- Put smart devices on a guest network.
- Check the manufacturer’s update period before you buy.
Why it matters
Poorly secured smart devices have been used to spy on households, and hijacked in large numbers to attack other networks. The most common problems are default or reused passwords, devices that never get updates, and accounts without two-step verification.
Secure each device
Secure the account first
Most smart devices are controlled through an app and an online account. Use a unique password, saved in your password manager, and turn on two-step verification if the app offers it. For cameras, this is the single most important step.
Change any default device password
If the device has its own password or PIN, change it during setup.
Update the firmware
Check the app for firmware updates and turn on automatic updates if offered.
Put devices on a separate network
Use your router’s guest network or a dedicated network for smart devices, so a compromised device can’t reach your computers. See how to secure your home Wi-Fi.
Review sharing and access
Check who has access in the app, and remove old household members, guests or tradespeople.
Turn off features you don’t use
Remote access, microphones, cloud recording or voice purchasing can be switched off if you don’t need them.
Cameras and doorbells: extra steps
- Point cameras away from areas where people expect privacy, inside and next door.
- Check whether recordings are stored in the cloud, on the device or on a card, and who can view them.
- Use privacy modes or schedules so indoor cameras switch off when you’re home.
- Think about neighbours. Recording beyond your property can raise privacy issues.
Buying a new device
Since 4 March 2026, consumer smart devices sold in Australia must meet minimum security standards under the Cyber Security Act 2024. Manufacturers must:
- Not ship devices with universal or easily guessed default passwords
- Provide a way to report security vulnerabilities
- Publish how long the device will receive security updates
When comparing products, look for the security update period. A cheap camera that stops getting updates next year is a poor deal.
No-name devices are a gamble
Very cheap, unbranded cameras and gadgets bought from overseas marketplaces may not meet Australian rules or get updates at all. Stick to brands with a clear support commitment.
When you stop using a device
Factory reset it and remove it from your account before selling, giving away or recycling it. See selling or recycling old devices.
Common questions
Can someone really hack my camera?
It happens, usually through reused passwords on the camera account rather than clever technical attacks. A unique password and two-step verification block most attempts.
Is it safer to store video locally instead of in the cloud?
It depends. Local storage keeps footage off the internet but can be stolen with the device. Cloud storage is convenient but relies on the account being well protected.
My device no longer gets updates. Should I replace it?
For cameras, locks and anything on your main network, yes. For simple devices, at least move them to the guest network.
Sources
This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. If you think you’ve lost money or personal information, contact your bank and the services named above straight away.
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