Technology
Beware of these doorbell cameras that could be compromised by cybercriminals
Chances are, if you’re like many people nowadays, you’ve got a doorbell camera set up at your front door. You know, the ones that let you see who’s at your doorstep even when you’re miles away.
No doubt, they can be great for enhanced security, and I definitely feel safer with mine running 24/7, but then comes this news. Turns out, some doorbell cameras have serious security flaws.
A recent investigation by Consumer Reports has unveiled a troubling scenario.
Certain doorbell cameras, touted for their ability to keep our homes safe, have been found to contain critical security flaws. This disturbing discovery brings to light the potential risks you face whether you already have a doorbell camera or you’re thinking about incorporating one of these devices into your home.
CLICK TO GET KURT’S FREE CYBERGUY NEWSLETTER WITH SECURITY ALERTS, QUICK VIDEO TIPS, TECH REVIEWS AND EASY HOW-TO’S TO MAKE YOU SMARTER
The security flaws researchers exposed
Researchers have identified major vulnerabilities in video doorbells manufactured by the Chinese company Eken Group Ltd. These devices, sold under the Eken and Tuck brand names, among others, have been available for purchase on major online retail platforms including Amazon, Walmart, Sears, Shein and Temu.
The flaws could potentially allow unauthorized access to view footage or even take complete control of the devices.
DOG CAUGHT ON DOORBELL CAMERA STEALING PACKAGE FROM NEIGHBOR’S FRONT PORCH
Doorbell cameras on display (Consumer Reports)
The technical glitch that was discovered
The core of the problem lies in the doorbells’ dependency on an app called Aiwit, operated by Eken Group. Crooks could exploit this by pairing an unsecured doorbell to their device, thereby gaining the ability to view or capture images and lock out the legitimate owner.
Additionally, the absence of a registration code mandated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) further questions the legality of these devices in the U.S.
Aiwit app (Consumer Reports)
MORE: IS YOUR DOORBELL CAMERA VULNERABLE TO JAMMING OR INTERFERENCE?
Retailers’ response to the investigation
Following the investigation, retailers like Temu have pulled the questioned doorbells from their listings. Walmart, acknowledging the issue with third-party sellers, has taken steps to offer refunds.
Amazon, however, despite awarding these products the “Amazon’s Choice” badge, had not responded to CyberGuy’s inquiry at the time of publishing. Critics argue e-commerce giants like Amazon need to shoulder more responsibility for the products sold on their platforms.
MORE: TOP PICKS TO AMP UP YOUR HOME SECURITY
Industry and regulatory challenges
The investigation highlights a complex ecosystem of brands and manufacturers often operating under multiple names and offering similar products. This complicates the task of regulating and ensuring the safety of products sold online. Despite contacting the manufacturers and online retailers, Consumer Reports found most of the problematic products still available for sale.
Eken doorbell camera (Amazon)
MORE: HOW TO DETECT A HACKER SPYING ON YOUR DOORBELL CAMERA
What you can do to protect yourself
For your part, we recommend you exercise caution and conduct due diligence before incorporating these doorbell cameras into your home. Here are 12 things you can do to stay protected.
1. Check the maker of all home video doorbells and security cameras: Investigate the manufacturer — check their reputation, read reviews and see if they’ve got a track record of keeping things secure. Remember, not all doorbell cameras are created equal.
2. Disconnect and unplug any camera identified as unsafe or a security risk: Consumer Reports has done the legwork for you. If you own one of the doorbell cameras it has flagged, be sure to unplug that camera, disconnect it from your Wi-Fi, and maybe even consider getting a more secure one like the ones we’ve listed here under top video doorbells.
3. Access the camera’s app or web interface: Most modern doorbell cameras are managed through a smartphone app or web interface. Start by logging into your account.
Here’s what you can do to protect your privacy on the Ring app:
- Launch Ring App
- Tap 3 line menu on top left
- In Control Center, check these three areas
Account Verification – Change to Text instead of Email
Authorized Client Devices – give this list a look over to make sure all of these devices belong to you or someone else you have authorized as a shared user
Shared Users – review each person listed to make sure you only see who you have granted access - Account Verification – Change to Text instead of Email
- Authorized Client Devices – give this list a look over to make sure all of these devices belong to you or someone else you have authorized as a shared user
- Shared Users – review each person listed to make sure you only see who you have granted access
4. Update firmware and software: Regularly updating your device’s firmware and the associated app is crucial for security. Manufacturers often release updates to patch vulnerabilities. Look for an ‘Update’ or ‘Check for Updates’ option in the settings menu.
5. Review account security settings: Ensure your account is secured with a strong, unique password. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords.
Also, enable two-factor authentication if available. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification.
6. Check camera privacy settings: Look for settings that control who can view your camera feed and when the camera records. Some devices allow you to set privacy zones, which are areas the camera ignores when recording.
7. Manage data storage and sharing settings: Understand how your video recordings are stored —whether locally on the device, in the cloud, or both — and for how long. Review any options related to data sharing, especially with third parties.
8. Enable Encryption: Ensure that your camera supports end-to-end encryption for video feeds and recordings to remain secure. This makes it much harder for unauthorized individuals to access your data.
9. Secure your Wi-Fi network: Since your doorbell camera connects to your home Wi-Fi network, ensure your router is secured with WPA3 encryption if available. Also, consider using a guest network for your smart home devices.
10. Familiarize yourself with privacy policies: Review the manufacturer’s privacy policy to understand how your data is used, shared and protected.
11. Monitor access logs: If the device or app offers access logs, regularly check them for any unauthorized access.
12. Contact support for advanced settings: If you’re unsure about some settings or their implications, don’t hesitate to contact the manufacturer’s customer support for guidance.
Remember, the specific steps and available settings can vary significantly between different brands and models of doorbell cameras. It’s always a good idea to consult the user manual or support documentation for your specific device for detailed instructions.
MORE: A PRIVACY WIN: AMAZON LIMITS POLICE ACCESS TO YOUR RING CAMERA
Kurt’s key takeaways
The disturbing revelations from Consumer Reports underscore a pressing need for tighter security measures and more rigorous oversight in the smart device industry. While technology offers the promise of making our homes smarter and safer, it also introduces new vulnerabilities that can be exploited. So, be sure to follow the three recommendations above to keep you and your family protected from creeps and crooks who might be trying to violate your privacy.
How concerned are you about the security flaws in doorbell cameras, and what steps would you take to mitigate these risks? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact
For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter
Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover
Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:
Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
Microsoft’s Office 2019 apps for Mac will stop working next month, because the company isn’t renewing a certificate that validates Office licenses. Owners of Office 2019 for Mac are being warned they’ll have to purchase Office 2024 or a Microsoft 365 subscription if they want to continue editing documents.
Microsoft previously promised that “all your Office 2019 apps will continue to function,” when it announced end of support in 2023. The company then quietly updated that support note last month to remove the mention of apps continuing to function, replacing it with “Rest assured that all your Office 2019 apps won’t lose any data.”
Starting on July 13th, Office 2019 for Mac and Office 2021 for Mac will both run in “reduced functionality mode,” allowing people to open files but not edit, save, or create new documents. The reduced functionality will impact Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote.
While Microsoft is providing a certificate update for Office 2021 as it’s still supported until October 13th, 2026, the company is leaving Office 2019 for Mac users out in the cold as support for these apps ended a few years ago. “Office 2019 for Mac reached end of support on October 10, 2023, and no longer receives updates,” says Microsoft. “Because Office 2019 cannot be updated to the required version, this issue cannot be resolved by updating or reinstalling Office 2019 for Mac.”
JimmyTech points out that old versions of Microsoft 365 apps on Mac and iOS will also be affected by this certificate issue, but a simple update will fix it for those users.
Microsoft regularly ends support of software and there’s always the risk you could run into issues running older apps or versions of Windows. It’s still surprising to not see Microsoft make an exception here though, particularly because this certificate issue breaks the main functionality of an app you’ve paid a one-time license fee for.
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
You know that little moment when your phone rings and the name on the screen makes you drop everything?
Maybe it says your spouse, your daughter, your boss or your best friend. You answer because you trust the name. Then the voice sounds familiar too.
That is exactly what makes the latest phone scams so dangerous.
Android’s fake call detection can warn you when a caller may be pretending to be someone saved in your contacts. (Silas Stein/Picture Alliance)
Scammers no longer have to call from a strange number. They can spoof a trusted contact’s phone number. Then they can use AI voice tools to sound like someone you know. Android is now rolling out a new feature called fake call detection to help warn you when that familiar call may be a fake.
FAKE AGENT PHONE SCAMS ARE SPREADING FAST ACROSS THE US
Join CyberGuy Live: Lock Down Your Phone in 30 Minutes (Saturday, June 13, 10 am ET)
- Your phone holds your email, passwords, photos, banking apps and personal data. In this free, live online class, Kurt the CyberGuy will walk you step by step through simple phone security fixes you can do in real time. You’ll learn how to improve your privacy settings, spot the latest phone scams, use trusted security tools and walk away with a simple checklist to stay protected. Register here: CyberGuyLive.com
What is Android fake call detection?
Android fake call detection is a new protection built into Phone by Google. It is designed to spot suspected spoofed calls when both people on the call use Phone by Google.
Think of it as your phone quietly asking, “Is this call really coming from that person’s device?” If the answer looks suspicious, your phone can show a warning and advise you to hang up. That small alert could stop a scam before fear, panic or confusion takes over.
ANDROID SECURITY UPGRADES OUTSMART SCAMS AND PROTECT YOUR PRIVACY
How Android fake call detection works
The feature works automatically in the background. You do not need to answer a quiz, scan a code or press a button during the call. When a trusted contact calls you, their phone sends a silent confirmation signal to your phone. That signal helps prove the call really came from their device.
If a scammer spoofs your contact’s number, that confirmation signal may be missing. Your phone then checks with your contact’s actual device. If the real device says it is not placing a call, your screen can warn you that the call may be fake.
The system uses end-to-end encrypted RCS technology, so the check happens privately. You can also turn the feature off in Phone by Google settings.
AI DEEPFAKE ROMANCE SCAM STEALS WOMAN’S HOME AND LIFE SAVINGS
Why fake calls are getting harder to spot
For years, caller ID gave people a sense of control. If the name looked familiar, most of us felt safer picking up. That old habit now works in the scammer’s favor.
Scammers can use internet-based calling tools to spoof numbers. That means your phone may display the name of someone you trust, even though the call comes from somewhere else.
Then comes the AI voice trick. With today’s audio tools, scammers can make a fake voice sound shockingly real. They may pretend to be a family member in trouble, a bank employee warning about fraud or a manager asking for urgent help.
SCAMMERS EXPLOITED MOM’S FEARS TO STEAL HER ENTIRE LIFE’S SAVINGS
That combination makes the call feel personal and immediate. It also makes you more likely to act before you think.
Why Android is adding this protection now
Impersonation scams have become a major global problem. INTERPOL’s March 2026 Global Financial Fraud Threat Assessment cited impersonation fraud as one of the leading contributors to more than $400 billion in global losses.
In the U.S., impersonation scams remain one of the top fraud categories reported to the FTC. Losses reached $2.95 billion in 2024.
GLOBAL SCAM CRACKDOWN LEADS TO 276 ARRESTS
Those numbers tell you why this feature deserves attention. Scammers go where the money is. Right now, they know trusted voices and trusted names can open the door.
Which Android phones get fake call detection?
Google says fake call detection is rolling out globally in Phone by Google this month, starting with Pixel devices.
The feature is available on Android 12 and newer devices with Phone by Google, Contacts and Google Messages installed. It also requires RCS capability in Google Messages.
SAMSUNG MESSAGES ENDING? WHAT ANDROID OWNERS MUST KNOW
There is one key limitation. Both you and the person calling you must use Phone by Google for fake call detection to work.
Phone by Google already comes as the default phone app on many Android devices. If your phone uses a different calling app, you can install Phone by Google from the Play Store and set it as your default phone app.
How Android fake call detection protects you
This feature gives you an extra warning at the exact moment you need it most. That timing is important. Scam calls often rely on emotion. The caller may say someone got arrested, a loved one had an accident or a bank account faces an urgent threat.
SSA IMPERSONATION SCAMS ARE GETTING MORE PERSONAL
When the voice sounds familiar, your guard drops. A warning on your screen can interrupt that emotional rush. It gives you a reason to stop, hang up and verify the story another way.
What Android fake call detection cannot do
This new tool helps, but it cannot protect you from every scam. It may not work if the other person does not use Phone by Google. It also may not cover calls from businesses, unknown numbers or contacts using unsupported devices. So you still need basic scam rules.
If someone asks for money, gift cards, crypto, account codes or remote access to your device, hang up. Then call the person or company back using a number you already trust.
Also, never stay on the line just because the caller tells you to. That is one of the oldest pressure tactics in the scammer playbook.
A spoofed call can look familiar on your screen, even when it is really coming from a scammer. (Kurt CyberGuy Knutsson)
How to protect yourself from AI voice scams
AI voice scams work because they sound personal, urgent and believable, so your best defense is to slow the conversation down before you act.
1) Create a family safe word
Pick a simple word or phrase that only your close family knows. It should be easy to remember but hard for a scammer to guess. Then, if someone calls with an emergency and asks for money, ask for the safe word. If they cannot give it, hang up and verify the story another way.
9 WAYS SCAMMERS CAN USE YOUR PHONE NUMBER TO TRY TO TRICK YOU
2) Pause when the call feels urgent
Scammers want you scared because fear makes people act fast. That is why fake emergency calls often sound intense, emotional and rushed. Take a breath before you do anything. A real loved one, bank or employer will let you verify what is happening.
3) Call back using a trusted number
If a call feels suspicious, hang up. Then call the person back using a number saved in your contacts or one you know is real. Do not use a number, link or instruction the caller gives you. That could send you right back to the scammer.
4) Never send money or codes during the call
Do not send gift cards, crypto, wire transfers or payment app transfers because a caller sounds convincing. Also, never share a one-time passcode, PIN or account login code over the phone. Once scammers get that information, they can move fast.
5) Turn on scam protections on your phone
Use the built-in protections already available on your device. Pixel and Samsung users can enable Scam Detection in the Phone by Google app to help flag suspicious calls. Also, consider using strong antivirus software that includes AI-powered scam protection to help detect scams in texts, online content and deepfake videos. Keep an eye on call warnings too. If your phone tells you something looks risky, treat that alert seriously. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com
6) Keep your phone apps updated
Update Phone by Google, Google Contacts and Google Messages when updates are available. These tools work best when your apps and phone software stay current. Updates often include security improvements, bug fixes and new scam protections.
Here’s how to check for updates on Android:
- Open the Google Play Store app.
- Tap your profile icon in the top right corner.
- Tap Manage apps & device.
- Under Updates available, tap See details.
- Look for Phone by Google, Google Contacts and Google Messages.
- Tap Update next to each app, or tap Update all.
You can also turn on automatic app updates by opening the Google Play Store app, tapping your profile icon, then going to Settings > Network preferences > Auto-update apps. From there, choose whether to update apps over Wi-Fi, over Wi-Fi or mobile data, with limited mobile data or not at all.
Kurt’s key takeaways
If a call feels urgent or suspicious, pause before you respond and verify it another way. (Tristan Spinski/The Washington Post via Getty Images)
Android’s fake call detection is a smart step in the fight against AI-powered phone scams. It recognizes something many people already know: the name on your caller ID no longer proves the person calling you is real. This feature gives Android users another layer of protection when scammers try to hijack trust. Still, the safest move remains simple. Slow down, verify the call and never let panic make the decision for you.
Should the government do more to stop scammers from using AI voices to impersonate the people you trust? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
- Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.
- For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com – trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
- Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.
Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
Congress narrowly voted to fund President Donald Trump’s mass deportation agenda, giving the Department of Homeland Security $70 billion over the next three years.
The house voted 214 to 212 in favor of the reconciliation bill Tuesday, following the Senate’s 52-47 vote last Friday morning. The vote fell largely along party lines. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) was the only Senate Republican to vote against it. Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI), initially voted against the bill — meaning it would have failed — but changed his vote after huddling with House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) and Appropriations Chair Tom Cole (R-OK), according to The Hill. No Democrats voted in favor of the funding bill, which was done through a budget reconciliation process to avoid a Democratic filibuster.
In a speech on the House floor ahead of the Tuesday vote, Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA) criticized Republicans for using the budget reconciliation process to avoid negotiating with Democrats, and emphasized ICE’s lack of popularity with the American people.
“At its core, this Republican reconciliation budget bill is a statement about priorities, and the priorities represented in this budget bill could not be more out of step with the needs and values of the American people,” Scanlon said.
Scanlon noted that DHS has yet to spend $100 billion of the nearly $200 billion it received under Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act. She added that Trump has not only expanded ICE’s reach by increasingly going after legal immigrants but also weaponized DHS against its critics. The bill, she said, will “supercharge” Trump’s abuses.
After the House markup last Friday, Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), ranking member of the House Appropriations Committee, noted that the bill not only lacks sufficient reforms but also cuts funding for cybersecurity and TSA, whose workers went weeks without pay during the DHS shutdown.
The funding bill comes at a time of deep unpopularity for ICE. One recent poll found that just 33 percent of voters approve of how the agency is doing its job.
And it comes amid yet another threat from border czar Tom Homan to flood New York City with ICE agents. In an interview with Fox News on Monday, Homan said he would send “more ICE agents than you’ve ever seen” to New York City if the state government passed a bill limiting cooperation with DHS.
“Providing a quarter trillion dollars to an administration promising that the public ‘ain’t seen shit yet’ when it comes to mass deportation is a historic mistake,” Todd Schulte, president of the immigration reform group FWD.us, said in a statement. “Supercharging the funding for these already out of control systems will come with terrible human consequences and continue to be met with increasing opposition from voters.”
Correction, June 9th: A previous version of this story said Rep. Tim Walberg voted against the funding bill. He initially voted against it but then changed his vote to support it.
Update, June 9th: This story has been updated to include comment from FWD.us president Todd Schulte.
-
Detroit, MI5 minutes ago‘Diarra From Detroit’ sets date for second season on Paramount+
-
San Francisco, CA17 minutes agoSan Francisco police release video of shootout that critically wounded officer
-
Dallas, TX20 minutes ago3 Dallas educators among FIFA World Cup volunteers
-
Miami, FL25 minutes agoMiami Gardens man arrested after fleeing Florida Keys deputies at 125 mph, sheriff says
-
Boston, MA32 minutes agoBoston gives update on plans for 3 a.m. last call at bars, outdoor drinking areas during World Cup
-
Denver, CO35 minutes agoOne Invitation Can Change a Life: Called By Name Campaign Inspires Future Priests For a Second Year in Denver
-
Seattle, WA40 minutes agoSurvey: What’s the toughest game to start the Seahawks’ season?
-
San Diego, CA47 minutes agoDaily Business Report: June 10, 2026, San Diego Metro Magazine
