If you are looking for a cheap and easy way to monitor who is at your door, you might be tempted by the video doorbells that are sold on Amazon and other online marketplaces. Some of these products have the “Amazon’s Choice” badge, which implies that they are highly rated, well-priced, and available to ship immediately. However, before you click “buy now”, you should be aware of the serious security and privacy risks that these devices pose.
The Security Flaws of Amazon’s Choice Video Doorbells
A recent investigation by Consumer Reports revealed that several video doorbells with the Amazon’s Choice distinction have haphazard levels of security. These doorbells are manufactured by a Chinese company called Eken, and sold under different brand names such as Eken, Tuck, Fishbot, and Rakeblue. They are all controlled by a single mobile app called Aiwit, which also operates the servers where the video footage is stored.
The investigation found that these doorbells have the following security flaws:
They expose your home’s IP address and WiFi network name to the internet without encryption, potentially opening your home network to malicious activity.
They allow anyone to take over the device by downloading the Aiwit app and entering the doorbell into pairing mode, which lets them view the live video feed and lock out the original owner.
They allow remote access to still images from the video feed and other information without authentication, by acquiring the serial number of the doorbell.
They lack a registration code that must be visible on this class of product, under Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations.
These security flaws mean that anyone with malicious intent could spy on your home, steal your personal information, or even launch a cyberattack on your network. Moreover, you have no control over how your video footage is stored and used by the Aiwit app and servers, which could violate your privacy and expose you to identity theft or blackmail.
How to Protect Yourself from Amazon’s Choice Video Doorbells
If you already own one of these video doorbells, or are considering buying one, here are some steps you can take to protect yourself:
Change the default password of the device and the Aiwit app and use a strong and unique password for each.
Update the firmware of the device and the app regularly and check for any security patches or alerts.
Disable the device and the app when you are not using them and unplug the device when you are away from home.
Monitor your network traffic and look for any suspicious activity or unauthorized access.
Consider returning the device and requesting a refund or replacing it with a more secure and reputable brand.
The Bottom Line
Amazon’s Choice video doorbells may seem like a bargain, but they come with a high cost to your security and privacy. These devices have serious security flaws that could expose your home and personal information to hackers and cybercriminals. You should avoid buying these products, and if you already have one, you should take measures to protect yourself or get rid of it. Remember, when it comes to your home security, you get what you pay for.