Are WiFi Baby Monitors Safe From Hackers?
You may have seen scary headlines about hacked baby monitors. The risk is real but almost entirely preventable - here’s what actually happens and how to stay safe.
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We compared 10 baby monitors on safety, video quality, range and the real device-plus-subscription cost - WiFi and non-WiFi, for every budget.
What really causes monitor hacks
Nearly every reported baby-monitor “hack” traces back to a weak, default or reused password - not some sophisticated attack. When a WiFi camera is left on its factory password or one that leaked in another breach, strangers can find it. Fix the password and you remove almost all of the risk.
Five steps to secure a WiFi monitor
- Set a strong, unique password on the camera account - never the default.
- Turn on two-factor authentication if the app offers it.
- Keep the app and camera firmware updated.
- Secure your home WiFi with WPA2/WPA3 and a strong router password.
- Review who has access in the app and remove old logins.
If you’d rather not connect at all
If the idea of an internet-connected camera in the nursery unsettles you, choose a non-WiFi monitor. It uses a private radio link to a parent unit, isn’t on the internet, and can’t be accessed remotely - see WiFi vs non-WiFi.
Perspective
A properly secured WiFi monitor is safe for the vast majority of families, and millions use them without issue. The key is simply not leaving it on a default or weak password.
Ready to choose?
We compared 10 baby monitors on safety, video quality, range and the real device-plus-subscription cost - WiFi and non-WiFi, for every budget.