The Ministry of Interior has stressed the importance of strict compliance with cybersecurity measures by users of home surveillance cameras urging residents to immediately change the passwords of their household camera systems as part of broader efforts to enhance digital security and protect both personal safety and national security amid ongoing security concerns with authorities emphasizing that maintaining secure access to these devices is essential to prevent unauthorized monitoring or potential misuse.

During a phone interview with Al Akhbar Channel the spokesperson for the Cybercrime Combating Department at the Ministry of Interior Lieutenant Colonel Saud Al Wazzan highlighted the importance of public cooperation with official directives stressing that users of home surveillance cameras must respond promptly to the guidance issued by authorities particularly by changing default or outdated passwords which may otherwise expose the systems to security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by unauthorized individuals.

Al Wazzan explained that the ministry’s warning followed observations by relevant authorities indicating that some surveillance cameras are still operating using old or default passwords making them potentially accessible to anyone capable of connecting to those systems which could jeopardize both personal privacy and national security particularly under the current security circumstances that require heightened vigilance regarding internet connected devices.

He further noted that from a security perspective the risks could become more serious in the event of a cyber war or a digital breach carried out by hostile entities which might attempt to gain access to surveillance cameras to observe sensitive or strategic locations while confirming that no hacking attempts have been detected so far although authorities remain in a state of heightened caution and vigilance while encouraging private institutions as well to strengthen their cybersecurity measures.

Al Wazzan also pointed out that companies authorized to install surveillance cameras normally inform customers of the need to change the default passwords immediately after installation adding that users are responsible for implementing these security measures as part of their role in protecting both personal and national safety while confirming that the Ministry of Interior is working in coordination with all relevant authorities to monitor developments and issue updates when necessary noting that public awareness has increased significantly with fewer people sharing sensitive images or information online while stressing that the ministry’s role extends beyond awareness campaigns to include legal action against anyone who violates cybersecurity regulations and related laws.