Wireless CCTV not secure, homes at risk: Experts

“Most people have linked their CCTV surveillance system at home and office to their mobiles through the internet for real-time monitoring. But anything linked over the internet is a security risk and it is easy for hackers to intercept and sometimes modify footage,” said Ajay Sabu, an ethical hacker. Sabu who runs Dataleaks, a firm managed by a decentralised network of ethical hackers aimed at creating awareness in cyber security, said if a CCTV network is linked to the internet, it is vulnerable for hacking.

Hacking is easy if the CCTV systems have old software and are linked to the internet. “Every three months, the manufacturers update software. But most people who install such systems don’t bother to update their surveillance system, making it vulnerable for data theft,” he added. Another cybercrime expert said the need was to have a video forensic division. 

The city police said they are planning to bring only public places under surveillance. “Nearly 20 per cent of the CCTV installation for public place surveillance will be done by the authorities and sponsors. The rest will be covered by private parties. We are asking private parties to have their own systems for surveillance. If you are setting up a CCTV system at home, keep one camera for the street. We will request to share it, if needed. There is no question of data being stolen,” said city police commissioner AK Viswanathan when asked about data theft.

The police have their own reasons for demanding more surveillance cameras. From January 1 until October 11, the city witnessed as many as 405 chain/mobile snatching incidents. Of these, the police cracked 343 cases with the help of CCTV cameras. The city has 50,500 CCTV cameras in public places.