Modern businesses rely heavily on video surveillance systems to enhance physical security, monitor operations, and deter crime. But as these systems become increasingly connected to networks and the cloud, they also become potential entry points for cybercriminals. That’s why cybersecurity must be a top priority when deploying or maintaining surveillance infrastructure.
At Sentry Communications and Security, we offer advanced video surveillance solutions that are designed not only to protect your property—but also your data. In this guide, we’ll cover the most important cybersecurity practices to secure your surveillance systems and safeguard your business from digital threats.
Surveillance systems are no longer isolated CCTV setups. Today’s IP-based and cloud-connected systems offer remote access, real-time monitoring, and data storage—but these benefits also come with risks. According to a report by IBM Security, cyberattacks on IoT (Internet of Things) devices, including security cameras, have surged in recent years.
Vulnerabilities in your surveillance network can be exploited to:
Without proper cybersecurity, your surveillance system could become the weakest link in your organization’s digital defense.
Most IP cameras and networked devices come with default usernames and passwords, which are widely known and searchable online. Hackers often use automated tools to scan for devices still using these default settings.
Action tip: Always change default credentials during installation. Use strong, unique passwords and consider integrating two-factor authentication (2FA) for administrative access.
Whenever possible, enable encryption protocols like HTTPS and SSL/TLS on your video systems. This prevents hackers from intercepting data as it travels across your network.
If your business streams or stores video remotely, make sure your cloud service provider uses end-to-end encryption. At Sentry Communications and Security, we work with providers that follow strict encryption and compliance standards to protect your sensitive footage.
One common mistake is placing surveillance equipment on the same network as other business operations. This allows hackers to move laterally through your systems once they’ve breached a single device.
Solution: Use VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) or dedicated physical networks for your surveillance system. This isolates the video feed from other critical systems such as payment processors, HR databases, or customer portals.
Security camera manufacturers often release firmware updates to patch vulnerabilities. Ignoring these updates leaves your systems exposed to known exploits.
Best practice: Set a monthly reminder to check for updates on all surveillance devices. Automate the process where possible, and work with providers like Sentry who can handle system maintenance and updates for you.
Remote access is convenient, but it’s also a common target for attackers. Avoid exposing camera feeds directly to the internet, and never use port forwarding unless absolutely necessary.
Recommendation: Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for any remote access. VPNs create an encrypted tunnel between your device and the surveillance system, minimizing the chance of intrusion.
For organizations needing robust and secure remote monitoring, explore our Real-Time Video Monitoring services.
Only authorized users should have access to your video system—and even then, not all users need admin-level privileges.
Steps to take:
This reduces the risk of insider threats and helps you quickly detect unauthorized behavior.
Cybersecurity for surveillance systems isn’t just a good practice—it’s often required by industry regulations. Depending on your sector, you may be subject to:
For detailed security frameworks, refer to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework or consult with our team to ensure your systems are compliant.
It’s important to remember that physical security supports cybersecurity. If someone gains physical access to your surveillance equipment, they can potentially bypass all digital safeguards.
Sentry offers commercial fire alarms, burglar alarms, and access control systems to ensure that your cameras, servers, and data storage devices remain physically protected. Learn more about our Access Control Solutions.
Cybersecurity is complex and ever-evolving. Partnering with a trusted expert can help you implement the right mix of hardware, software, and security protocols.
At Sentry Communications and Security, we’ve helped businesses across Long Island safeguard both their physical spaces and digital infrastructure. From system design and installation to secure remote access and ongoing support, we provide end-to-end solutions that meet today’s cybersecurity challenges.
As video surveillance becomes more advanced and interconnected, cybersecurity can no longer be an afterthought. It’s essential for protecting your business, your customers, and your reputation.
Don’t wait for a breach to take action. Contact Sentry Communications and Security today for a consultation and learn how we can help secure your video surveillance systems—from both physical and digital threats.
