Illustrative imagery. Equipment and configuration vary by home.
A camera can help you check on your home, but who can check on the camera? Start with three separate questions: who can sign in, whether its software is maintained, and how it connects to your network. A working livestream is not proof that all three are in order.
An account problem is not always a Wi-Fi problem
In its May 2023 action involving Ring, the FTC described both inappropriate access to private videos and failures that enabled account and camera intrusions. This historical case does not establish that your camera is compromised. It does show why responsibility cannot stop at the router.
A network gateway does not reset a stolen camera-account password or control a provider’s internal access. Ask which part of the problem a proposed protection actually addresses.
Start with the access you can control
The FTC’s camera guidance recommends a unique password, available two-factor authentication, software updates and careful sharing of viewing permissions. Use the manufacturer’s official app or instructions.
- Review authorized viewers and remove access that is no longer needed.
- Check camera and viewing-app updates, not just router updates.
- Consider whether remote viewing is necessary, especially in private rooms.
- Choose equipment that protects livestreams and recordings with encryption.
Give the camera an appropriate place on the network
The FTC also suggests considering a separate network for cameras. Supported separation can create useful boundaries, but it needs to preserve the connections your household actually uses. Our guide to separate device networks explains the questions to ask before changing settings.
Do not assume a guest Wi-Fi label means all the right boundaries are in place. Ask your installer to explain the intended configuration and how it will be checked. Keep passwords, camera feeds and network details out of public comments.
Know what managed network care covers
Home Network Shield combines physical network-security hardware with professional setup and ongoing care for supported managed network equipment. That includes relevant alert review, monthly manufacturer-update checks and technical support within agreed coverage.
This is not a promise to manage every camera, camera account or cloud service. Discuss compatibility, responsibilities and any separate work before deciding. Read what ongoing management includes and bring your questions to an assessment conversation. Scope, availability and any assessment fee are confirmed before booking.
Make the next step specific to your home.
Tell us what you would like help with. We confirm assessment scope, service availability and any fee before booking.
Continue learning
- Smart Home Network Security
- Should Smart Devices and Work Computers Share a Network?
- What Does Home Network Monitoring Actually Do?
- Use the Home Network Checkup Checklist