Consumer group claiming home security cameras could pose risk

A number of home security cameras listed and recommended to users on Amazon contain flaws which could be putting customers at risk, Which? has claimed.

New research by the consumer group is said to have found security issues in six cameras it tested, despite each of them having “thousands” of positive reviews and featuring an Amazon’s Choice recommendation.

Alleged flaws included the sharing of unencrypted data including wi-fi passwords – which could allow hackers to gain access to other devices on a home wi-fi network – and weaknesses which could enable strangers to take remote control of a camera feed.

Which? claimed it also carried out further tests alongside a Us-based security expert and uncovered an issue it suggests could affect more than 50,000 cameras in the UK and almost two million worldwide.

Which? also warned that accountability was an issue with a number of the cameras in a list of the top 50 most popular devices, with more than 30 having limited contact details – many were registered in China and could not be reached by the consumer group.

The group’s research named the Victure 1080p, Vstarcam C7837WIP, iegeek 1080p, Elite Security, Accfly Camhi APP Outdoor Security Camera 1080P and Sricam 720p as those it tested and found issues with.

Which? said that it had also presented its findings to Amazon and urged it to remove the items from sale.

However, the technology giant declined to comment.