Technology
Is your baby monitor safe? How to secure it from hackers
Did you know that baby monitors have been around since the 1930s? Parents have long relied on these devices to keep a watchful eye on their little ones and ensure their safety. Over the years, baby monitors have come a long way, evolving with technology to offer even more features.
However, with these advancements come new challenges, namely, the risk of hacking. Different types of baby monitors come with varying levels of security, which means some are more vulnerable than others.
Here are some practical tips to help you keep your baby monitor safe from hackers so you can have peace of mind while your baby sleeps.
GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS – SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER – THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE
A child being monitored on baby monitor app (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Yes, baby monitors can be hacked
Like most technological devices, baby monitors can be hacked. Several factors, however, determine the susceptibility to hacking, such as overall network security, device security features and type of monitor.
Network security
First, let’s talk about your home Wi-Fi network. You know how you wouldn’t leave your front door wide open, right? Well, an unsecured Wi-Fi network is kind of like that, but for all your online stuff. Think about it. Your baby monitor, your phones, your laptops, even your smart fridge, they’re all hanging out on this network. If it’s not locked down tight with a strong password and solid encryption, it’s like inviting the whole neighborhood to peek through your windows.
Device security
Now let’s chat about your actual baby monitor. You’d think all baby monitors would come with top-notch security, right? Well, sadly, that’s not always the case. Some baby monitors are like fortresses; they encrypt every bit of data they send out. That means all those adorable coos and gurgles (and occasional 3 a.m. screaming sessions) are scrambled up so only you can understand them.
But here’s the catch: Not all baby monitors do this. Some of them are broadcasting your baby’s greatest hits for anyone with the right equipment to tune in. It’s like they’re running their own little radio station, and you definitely don’t want random people tuning in.
So, what’s a parent to do? When you’re shopping for a baby monitor, look for words like “encrypted” or “secure transmission” in the product description. If you can’t find that info, reach out to the manufacturer and ask. Your baby’s privacy is worth the extra effort.
A baby monitor (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?
Understanding baby monitor security
While most types of baby monitors can be hacked, the likelihood and type of hacking varies based on the type of device.
Analog baby monitors: While these operate on older technology, hackers in proximity might be able to intercept their frequency.
Frequency-hopping spread spectrum baby monitors: While these are also analog, their technology switches frequencies quickly, making it much harder to intercept the signal. Of the three different types of baby monitors, these are considered the safest or hardest for hackers to infiltrate.
Internet-enabled baby monitors: These are more modern baby monitors that can be connected to the internet via a wired or wireless connection. These are the easiest to hack because they can be accessed through the internet networks they are connected to, as well as security measures specific to the device, which can be compromised.
BEST BABY MONITORS FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY IN 2024
Illustration of a hacker breaking into a baby monitor (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
HOW TO CHECK IF SOMEONE IS STEALING YOUR WI-FI
How to find out if hackers have compromised your baby monitor
Now that you know baby monitors can be hacked, below are signs that your baby monitor might be hacked.
1. Changes in behavior: If the camera, audio or functions of the baby monitor change suddenly, it can mean someone else has access to your device.
2. Unrecognizable devices on your network: If you’re using an internet-enabled baby monitor and notice any unrecognizable devices connected to your internet network, it could mean that hackers have gained access to your network and that your baby monitor is in jeopardy.
3. Strange audio: If you hear unrecognizable voices or noises coming from your monitor that supports two-way communications, it may mean your baby monitor was hacked.
4. Increase in your data usage: Most monitors use data when being actively viewed or used, so if you notice an increase in data usage, it can mean hackers are accessing it.
5. Security setting changes: Changes to the security settings of your baby monitor, such as password changes or reset requests, can be a red flag. Especially if the password has been changed to access your device, it could mean that hackers have compromised your baby monitor.
HOW YOUR CONNECTED HOME DEVICES COULD BE LEAVING YOU EXPOSED
How to secure your baby monitor
While the level of security will be determined by the type of baby monitor and its individual features, below are some ways to increase the security of your baby monitor:
1. Limit remote access: If possible, disable or limit remote features of the baby monitor when not needed. This reduces potential access points for hackers.
2. Use a strong, unique alphanumeric password: Some users use the default password provided by the manufacturer, which leaves those devices as primary targets for hackers. Changing the password to be strong, complex and unique will make it less likely a target for hackers. We’re talking about a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers and symbols. And please, for the love of sleepless nights, don’t use “baby123” or your kid’s birthday. Hackers love that stuff. Also, consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords.
3. Enable additional security features: If your device supports features like two-factor authentication or biometric login, enable them. These add extra layers of security, making it harder for unauthorized users to access your system.
4. Secure your internet network: Make sure the internet network the baby monitor is connecting to is behind a strong password. Consider creating a separate guest network for your baby monitor. Check your router settings via the router’s IP address (often located on the back or underside of the physical router) or through your router’s admin interface. Look for WPA3 encryption; it’s the latest and greatest for keeping your network safe. If that’s not an option, WPA2 is still pretty good. Just steer clear of WEP; it’s about as secure as a paper lock on a bank vault. Check out our “Top Routers for Best Security 2024.”
5. Update your device’s software and firmware: Some baby monitors get firmware and software upgrades to keep up with changing security issues. Keep your device updated so that any known vulnerabilities can’t be exploited by hackers.
6. Turn off the monitor when not in use: This simple step can significantly reduce the window of opportunity for potential hackers.
HOW TO UPDATE ALL OF YOUR DEVICES AND KEEP THEM SAFE
Kurt’s key takeaways
As with any other piece of technology, where hackers can find a vulnerability, they will exploit it. Unfortunately, baby monitors, depending on their type and features, can be as susceptible as any other type of consumer technology. The more connected it is to a network that can be compromised, the more vulnerable it is to hackers. But just like other consumer electronics, key security measures such as strong, complex passwords and two-step authentication can go a long way in dissuading hackers from compromising your baby monitor.
Have you used a baby monitor before? Have you noticed any unusual activity with the use of your baby monitor? What security measures have you taken to make sure your baby monitor is safe from hackers? 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.
Follow Kurt on his social channels:
Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:
New from Kurt:
Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
OpenAI announced yet another reorganization Friday, consolidating certain areas and making company president Greg Brockman the official lead of all things product.
In a memo viewed by The Verge, Brockman wrote that since OpenAI’s product strategy for this year is to go all-in on AI agents, the company is combining its products to “invest in a single agentic platform and to merge ChatGPT and Codex into one unified agentic experience for all.”
To do this, the company is making a suite of org chart changes, although it’s still operating under some of the same ones from last month. That’s when AGI boss Fidji Simo went on medical leave and OpenAI announced that Brockman would be in charge of product strategy and CSO Jason Kwon, CFO Sarah Friar, and CRO Denise Dresser would take control of business operations.
It’s all part of OpenAI’s recent strategic shift to focus on key revenue drivers like coding and enterprise and stop pouring resources into “side quests” ahead of its potential IPO later this year and amid investor pressure to turn a profit.
In Simo’s continued absence, Brockman’s role leading product strategy is now official, as well as the company’s “scaling” arm. Under Brockman will be four different pillars. The first is core product and platform, led by Thibault Sottiaux, who has been OpenAI’s engineering lead for Codex, and the second is critical enterprise industries, led by ChatGPT head Nick Turley. Third is the consumer pillar, such as health, commerce, and personal finance, which will be led by Ashley Alexander, who has been its healthcare products VP. The fourth pillar — core infrastructure, ads, data science, and growth — will be led by Vijaye Raji, who has been OpenAI’s CTO of applications.
Brockman wrote in the memo that OpenAI’s goal is now to “bring agents to ChatGPT scale, in order to give individuals and organizations significantly more value and utility from our products.”
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
You’re going about your day when your phone buzzes. A text hits your phone. It looks official. It sounds urgent. And suddenly, you are being told you owe money for a traffic violation. That is exactly what Todd from Texas experienced. He emailed us and said:
“I received this text message today. It was so baffling because I haven’t lived in California for nearly a decade. I didn’t click on anything or respond. How can I tell if this is for real or if this is a scam?”
If you’ve gotten a message like this, you are not alone. This type of scam is spreading fast, and it is designed to pressure you into acting before you think. Let’s break down what is really going on.
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
- 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.
FAKE AGENT PHONE SCAMS ARE SPREADING FAST ACROSS THE US
This message may look official, but several red flags show it is likely a scam designed to pressure you into paying quickly. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
What the traffic ticket scam text looks like
At first, the message seems convincing. It claims to be a “final reminder” from the California DMV, and it warns of penalties like license suspension and added fees. It even includes a link that appears somewhat official. However, once you slow down and take a closer look, the red flags quickly start to pile up.
The biggest red flags in this message
Here are the key warning signs to watch for in messages like this.
9 WAYS SCAMMERS CAN USE YOUR PHONE NUMBER TO TRY TO TRICK YOU
1) The phone number makes no sense
The message comes from a number with a +63 country code. That is the Philippines, not California. Government agencies in the U.S. do not send official legal notices from international numbers. That alone is a major warning sign.
2) No name, just “Dear Driver”
Legitimate notices from a DMV or court almost always include your full name or at least some identifying information. “Dear Driver” is vague on purpose. It allows scammers to send the same message to thousands of people.
3) The link isn’t a real DMV website
The message includes this link:
ca.mnvtl.life/dmv
That isn’t a government domain. Official DMV websites in California use “.ca.gov” or similar trusted domains. Scammers often create lookalike links to trick you into clicking.
4) Urgency and threats
The message pushes you to act quickly with a deadline. It lists consequences like license suspension and extra charges. Scammers rely on fear. When you feel rushed, you are more likely to click without thinking.
FBI WARNS OF DANGEROUS NEW ‘SMISHING’ SCAM TARGETING YOUR PHONE
5) Asking you to reply to proceed
The text says to reply with “Y” to get instructions. That is another trap. Responding confirms your number is active, which can lead to more scam messages.
6) Generic language and odd phrasing
Parts of the message feel slightly off. The tone is formal but not quite right. That subtle awkwardness is common in scam messages sent to large groups of people.
7) Overloaded threats designed to scare you
The message piles on consequences like license suspension, added fees, court action and even credit damage. In this case, it even mentions a license suspension and a $160 late payment charge. That combination is meant to overwhelm you and push you to act fast. Real agencies usually provide clear, specific notices, not a long list of escalating threats in a single text.
INSIDE A SCAMMER’S DAY AND HOW THEY TARGET YOU
Scam texts like this often arrive out of nowhere and try to create urgency before you have time to question them. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
What this means for you
Even if you have never driven in California, you could still receive this message. Scammers cast a wide net and hope someone takes the bait. If you click the link, you could be taken to a fake payment page. That page may ask for your credit card details, personal information or login credentials. In some cases, it can also install malware on your device or redirect you to credential-stealing pages. This isn’t about a ticket. It is about getting your data. State DMVs typically do not send final legal notices or payment demands by text message.
Why these scams keep working
These messages work because they tap into something most people fear. Legal trouble, fines and losing driving privileges. They also look just real enough to pass a quick glance. That is all scammers need. As more services move online, these scams will continue to evolve.
Unlike typical DMV scams, this message impersonates a court and escalates the threats to make the situation feel more serious (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Ways to stay safe from traffic ticket text scams
Start with a simple rule. Never trust a payment request that shows up out of nowhere. Here are practical steps you can take:
1) Do not click the link
If you are unsure, do not tap anything in the message. That includes links and reply options.
2) Use strong antivirus software
If you accidentally click a link, strong antivirus software can help detect malware and protect your data. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com
3) Verify directly with the DMV
Go to your state’s official DMV website by typing it yourself into your browser. Do not use the link in the text.
4) Check the sender carefully
Look at the phone number. International numbers or random strings are a clear warning sign.
5) Ignore generic greetings
Real notices will usually include your name or case details. Vague language is a red flag.
6) Consider a data removal service
Scammers often get your number from data broker sites. Removing your personal info from those databases with a data removal service can reduce these messages. Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com
7) Block and report the number
On your phone, block the sender and report it as spam. This helps reduce future attempts.
8) Turn on spam filtering
Enable spam filtering on your phone or through your carrier to catch more of these messages before they reach you.
Kurt’s key takeaways
Todd did the right thing. He paused, questioned the message and did not click. That one decision likely saved him from handing over personal information. When it comes to messages like this, skepticism is your best defense. If something feels off, trust that instinct.
Should phone carriers and tech companies be doing more to block scams like this before you ever see them? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
- 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.
Honda revealed prototypes of two new hybrid models, an Accord sedan and the Acura RDX SUV, during its annual business briefing this week, built on a platform that it says will begin launching next year. The RDX was announced earlier this year as Honda’s first SUV to feature the next-gen version of its two-motor hybrid system.
In March, Honda announced it would take a writedown of up to 2.5 trillion yen ($15.7 billion) on its EV investments. Now Honda says its EV-related losses will be “resolved” by 2029, and that it will reevaluate its EV plans in 2030.
-
Kentucky2 minutes agoKentucky Newsmakers 5/17: Congressional candidate Erin Petrey; Visit Lex President Mary Quinn Ramer
-
Louisiana8 minutes agoLive Results: Louisiana midterm state and congressional primaries
-
Maine14 minutes agoMaineHealth Maine Medical conference highlights trauma care challenges
-
Maryland20 minutes agoMargie’s Intention Repeats Maryland Magic in DuPont
-
Michigan26 minutes agoPolice release 911 calls and video connected to fatal shooting of Michigan State student
-
Massachusetts32 minutes agoPublic asked to attend funeral services for Massachusetts World War II veteran with no known family
-
Minnesota38 minutes agoMinnesota honors 314 fallen officers in solemn St. Paul ceremony
-
Missouri50 minutes agoCrews safely remove individual from house fire Friday in Kansas City, Missouri