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.
Technology
Soundcore new Space 2 promise improved ANC and sound
We finally have an update to the Soundcore Space One that launched two and a half years ago. At MWC 2026, Soundcore has announced the Space 2, which will be available in the US on April 21st in three colors — linen white, jet black, and seafoam green — for $129.99. That’s $30 more than the Space One’s original price.
According to Soundcore, the Space 2 have had a full-band noise cancellation upgrade with the focus of those improvements on the low-frequency sounds we all generally use ANC headphones to block — things like airplane, train, and bus engine sounds while traveling. The Space 2 use the same number of microphones as the Space One for noise canceling, instead relying on optimized mic placement and structure and materials improvements for the boost in performance.
Redesigned 40mm drivers incorporate dual layers in their design. There’s a silk diaphragm with metal ceramic that supposedly results in faster transient response — the driver’s ability to respond to sudden sound quickly and accurately — with better balanced sound reproduction. The Space One had great sound performance for the price, but I’m all for any improvement to sound performance accuracy. Like the Space One, the Space 2 will support LDAC high-res audio.
The headphones connect wirelessly over Bluetooth 6.1, although they do not support Auracast transmissions — an unfortunate exclusion. There’s also a 3.5mm jack for a wired connection.
Battery life has been increased to up to 50 hours with ANC and 70 hours with ANC off. This is up from 40 hours with ANC and 55 hours without ANC with the Space One headphones. With a five-minute charge the Space 2 get an additional four hours of listening.
The Space 2 will include many of the features found on the Space One. You can use HearID 3.0 to go through a series of sound samples to tune the headphones’ sound to your preferences. It worked well for me on the Space One to get them closer to a sound I liked, with a bit of the edge taken off the higher frequencies. There’s also a sensor that detects when you remove the headphones and stops playback so you don’t miss any of your music or podcast. They once again come with a cloth bag that matches the color of the headphones instead of a case, which is one change I wish Soundcore had made, as the cloth bag doesn’t offer as much protection if you tend to throw your headphones into your backpack or bag.
The Soundcore Space One were among the best budget ANC headphones when they came out, and still hold up to more recent releases. But with the bump in price to over $100 for the Space 2, there’s a bit more expectation on them. ANC performance continues to improve — and products get cheaper — across manufacturers, so the Soundcore Space 2 has some competition from companies like Sony, EarFun, and JLab. If the ANC on the Space 2 stands up to current budget headphones and they still sound as good and are as comfortable as the Space One, you can expect to see the new Soundcore Space 2 on many recommendation lists.
Technology
Tired of websites blocking your VPN? A dedicated IP fixes that
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
If you have ever turned on your VPN and suddenly could not log in to your bank, email, streaming service or work portal, you are not imagining things. In fact, this is one of the most common frustrations VPN users face today.
However, the issue is not that VPNs stopped working. Instead, websites have become far more aggressive about blocking traffic that looks suspicious.
As a result, the way your VPN is built now matters just as much as whether you use one at all.
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide – free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter
Shared VPN IPs often trigger red flags, which is why banks, email providers and streaming sites sometimes block access. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Why websites block many VPN connections
Most VPNs give you a shared IP address. As a result, hundreds or even thousands of people can appear online from the same address at the same time. From a website’s perspective, that traffic pattern raises red flags. When platforms detect too many logins, rapid location changes or unusual activity tied to one IP, they step in quickly. In many cases, they respond by:
- Blocking access
- Triggering captchas
- Requiring extra verification codes
- Temporarily locking accounts
Meanwhile, you did nothing wrong. Instead, you end up dealing with restrictions caused by other users sharing that same IP address.
What a dedicated IP does differently
With a dedicated IP, you get an address that belongs only to you. Unlike shared VPN connections, no one else uses it.
Each time you connect, you use the same IP address. As a result, you avoid sharing traffic, rotating locations or competing with random users whose activity could trigger blocks.
Because of that consistency, your connection looks much more like a typical home or office internet setup. And that simple difference can dramatically reduce website suspicion and login headaches.
NEW YORK HALTS ROBOTAXI EXPANSION PLAN
A dedicated IP gives you a consistent address that looks more like a normal home connection, reducing captchas and login alerts. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
What a dedicated IP can do that shared VPN IPs usually can’t
That consistency does more than reduce suspicion; it improves how smoothly you access the sites and services you use every day.
Access more websites without blocks
Banks, government portals, healthcare sites, and streaming services are far less likely to block a dedicated IP because it does not show heavy or erratic traffic patterns.
Reduce captchas and security challenges
Those endless “prove you’re human” messages are usually triggered by shared IP abuse. A dedicated IP dramatically reduces them.
Make banking and email logins smoother
Financial institutions and email providers often flag constantly changing IP addresses as suspicious. A dedicated IP stays consistent, so login alerts and lockouts happen far less often.
Support remote work and secure systems
Some employers only allow access from approved IP addresses. Shared VPN IPs cannot be approved. Dedicated IPs can.
Improve streaming reliability
Shared VPN IPs are often the first to get blocked when streaming services crack down. Dedicated IPs are less likely to be flagged because traffic looks normal and predictable.
What a dedicated IP does not do
A dedicated IP:
- Does not remove encryption
- Does not expose your identity
- Does not weaken your privacy
Your traffic remains encrypted, and your real location stays hidden. You simply get a connection that websites trust more.
Who benefits most from a dedicated IP
A dedicated IP is especially helpful if you:
- Use online banking regularly
- Travel and access sites from different locations
- Work remotely
- Stream often
- Get tired of captchas and blocked pages
- Want a VPN that feels normal to use
GOOGLE DISMANTLES 9M-DEVICE ANDROID HIJACK NETWORK
With fewer blocks and smoother logins, a dedicated IP helps your VPN work quietly in the background instead of getting in your way. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
How to choose a VPN that offers a dedicated IP
If you want these benefits, look for a VPN provider that offers a dedicated IP option built directly into its service. Some providers include it in premium plans, while others offer it as an add-on. Either way, the process should be simple. You should be able to select your dedicated IP inside the app without advanced setup or manual configuration. Before signing up, check that the provider also offers strong speeds, reliable uptime and clear privacy policies. A dedicated IP improves access, but overall performance still matters.
What to look for beyond a dedicated IP
A dedicated IP reduces blocks. However, a quality VPN should also deliver strong security and smooth performance.
Fast, stable connections: Speed matters for streaming, video calls and everyday browsing. Look for providers known for consistent performance.
Wide server coverage: More server locations give you flexibility when traveling and help reduce location errors.
Clear privacy practices: Choose a VPN with a strict no-logs policy and independent audits when possible.
Secure server technology: Modern VPNs often use RAM-based servers that automatically wipe data on reboot.
Easy-to-use apps: Protection should feel simple, not technical. Clean apps across major devices make daily use effortless.
For the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com
Kurt’s key takeaway
If your VPN keeps getting blocked, the problem may not be the VPN itself. It may be the shared IP address behind it. Websites are increasingly aggressive about suspicious traffic. When hundreds of users share the same IP, banks, email providers and streaming platforms take notice. That is when the captchas, verification codes and account lockouts start. A dedicated IP changes that experience. You still get encryption. You still protect your real location. But your connection looks stable and predictable, which helps you avoid constant interruptions.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
Should protecting your privacy really mean fighting with your bank, email, and streaming apps? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide – free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter
Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
Technology
Polymarket defends its decision to allow betting on war as ‘invaluable’
Polymarket has been allowing people to bet on when the US would strike Iran next. Obviously, now that it’s actually happened and people have died, the prediction betting market is feeling some pressure. The site has been at the center of controversy before, including suspicions of insider trading on the Super Bowl halftime show and the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
In a statement posted on its site, Polymarket defended its decision to allow betting on the potential start of a war, saying that it was an “invaluable” source of news and answers, before taking shots at traditional media and Elon Musk’s X. The statement reads:
…
Read the full story at The Verge.
-
World4 days agoExclusive: DeepSeek withholds latest AI model from US chipmakers including Nvidia, sources say
-
Massachusetts4 days agoMother and daughter injured in Taunton house explosion
-
Montana1 week ago2026 MHSA Montana Wrestling State Championship Brackets And Results – FloWrestling
-
Denver, CO4 days ago10 acres charred, 5 injured in Thornton grass fire, evacuation orders lifted
-
Louisiana6 days agoWildfire near Gum Swamp Road in Livingston Parish now under control; more than 200 acres burned
-
Technology1 week agoYouTube TV billing scam emails are hitting inboxes
-
Technology1 week agoStellantis is in a crisis of its own making
-
Politics1 week agoOpenAI didn’t contact police despite employees flagging mass shooter’s concerning chatbot interactions: REPORT