Back in 2020, a Mississippi family was stunned when their young daughter heard a stranger’s voice coming through a Ring camera in her bedroom. A hacker had accessed their network using a compromised password—and the camera became a direct line into their home.
That wasn’t a one-off. Stories like this are becoming more common, not just in homes but in businesses—especially small to mid-sized manufacturers using smart cameras to monitor shipping bays, inventory cages, or restricted production areas.
Here in Salt Lake City, smart security devices are becoming a go-to for lean manufacturing teams looking for better visibility with fewer resources. But without the right precautions, these devices can turn into backdoors for cybercriminals.
Not All Smart Cameras Are Created Equal
It’s tempting to grab the cheapest model that gets decent reviews. But many budget smart cameras skip the basics when it comes to security—no encryption, no automatic firmware updates, and no multi-factor authentication (MFA). Even top-tier brands become vulnerable if settings aren’t configured properly.
Cyber attackers are known to target:
- Default login credentials (never updated by the user)
- Outdated firmware with known vulnerabilities
- Smart devices sitting on the same network as critical systems (like your ERP or MES)
For Salt Lake City manufacturers handling proprietary designs, client data, or compliance-sensitive workflows (think ISO 9001, CMMC, ITAR), that’s a risk you can’t afford.
Before You Install That Camera, Here’s What to Look For:
Smart devices are only as secure as the setup behind them. If your operation is considering—or already using—smart cameras, make sure you:
- Choose trusted manufacturers that release regular security patches
- Look for encryption on both local and cloud storage
- Prioritize cameras with MFA capabilities
- Consider devices that offer local-only storage if cloud data is a concern
And remember, security doesn’t stop at the camera itself. Your entire network needs to be designed with protection in mind.
Smart Setup Tips for Salt Lake City Manufacturers
Installing a smart camera on your shop floor? Use these setup steps to keep your operation protected:
- Change all default usernames and passwords immediately
- Enable auto-updates for firmware and software where possible
- Segment your network: Keep IoT devices separate from business-critical systems
- Harden your router: Disable WPS, use strong WPA3 encryption, and change default admin credentials
Network segmentation is especially important. If a smart device is compromised, you don’t want that intrusion spilling into your CNC programs, inventory systems, or customer databases.
It’s Not Just Cameras: Every Smart Device Is a Potential Risk
While security cameras get the most attention, they’re not the only smart devices in play. Smart thermostats, door locks, shop floor voice assistants, and even digital signage can all connect to your network—and all need proper configuration.
Manufacturers in Salt Lake City can’t afford blind spots when it comes to IT security. A hacked smart device could expose confidential designs, customer data, financial records, or even allow for remote control of connected equipment.
That’s why working with an experienced IT provider—especially one who understands the nuances of industrial tech—is essential.
Smart Tech, Safe Operation
Smart devices aren’t going away. And truthfully, they can be powerful tools for manufacturers looking to gain visibility, cut costs, and improve response times. But without the right cybersecurity measures in place, they become liabilities.
At Qual IT, we specialize in IT support for Salt Lake City manufacturers—including smart device vetting, network design, and ongoing monitoring.
Click here to schedule your free Network Assessment, and let’s make sure your smart tech is working for you, not against you.
