Uri Guterman, Head of Product & Marketing, Hanwha Techwin Europe
Cybersecurity has been a priority in the security sector for some time. Cameras and recorders from leading manufacturers should incorporate measures to prevent unauthorised access to images and data.
However, it is important not to be complacent. Using third party security agencies, Hanwha Techwin has a sustained programme of monitoring and testing the latest methods of hacking. This underlines the importance of always updating firmware to combat any new identified threats.
A good starting point for any company providing security products or services is to demonstrate it has done everything possible to protect its own IT infrastructure against the threat of a cyberattack.
Initiatives such as the UK Government backed Cyber Essentials Scheme verifies companies have adopted procedures to minimise the threat of an attack on the IT infrastructure.
Installers and integrators must appreciate the importance of setting up password protection as an essential part of the commissioning process. The need for this has been underscored by recent high-profile examples of hacking which occurred because sensible password protocols were not implemented.
Although security needs to be easy to implement, it is important to not allow default passwords to be used. It is essential that a secure password is set up during the initial installation process, which is why Hanwha prohibits the consecutive use of the same letter or number, and encourages the use of special characters as well as a combination of letters and numbers.
Using an intentionally created ‘back door’ to gain access to a camera, recorder or network can be managed through company policy. Hanwha Techwin recognised this in 2012 when we removed a function used for remote customer support which had the potential to be exploited. We upgraded firmware for every model, started third party agency testing and since then this policy has remained in effect.
Whilst no manufacturer can offer 100 per cent guarantees, Hanwha Techwin is committed to providing video surveillance solutions which incorporate best practise in respect of preventing cyberattacks. Emphasis must be on the use of technologies and features which strengthen the user authentication process and protect firmware through advanced encryption techniques.