Lock down cameras, storage boxes, TVs and printers

Smart gadgets are a common reason for an open door. Here is what to do for any of them.

Every maker puts these settings in a different place, so this page gives the steps in plain terms. To find the exact menu, search the web for your model name plus the words "turn off remote access", or look in the maker's phone app.

For any gadget

Change the password if it still has the one it came with. Pick a long one that you do not use anywhere else.
Update it. Look for Firmware, Software Update or System, and turn on automatic updates if you can.
Turn off features you do not use: remote access, "P2P", "cloud", UPnP, FTP, Telnet and SSH.
Never open a door in the router just to reach it. To see a camera away from home, use the maker's phone app, which connects safely. Do not use port forwarding.
Replace very old devices. If the maker stopped updating it, it will not get safer.

Security cameras and video recorders (DVR)

These are the most common cause of an open web page or "camera video stream" in our check. Turn off any setting named remote access, P2P, DDNS or UPnP that you do not need, and use the camera's phone app for viewing.

Storage boxes (NAS)

A storage box usually has a web page for settings. Turn off file sharing over the internet, and use the maker's secure remote service or a VPN if you want your files away from home.

Smart TVs and streaming sticks

Open the settings, find Software Update (often under Support or General), and turn on automatic updates. These devices are rarely open to the internet, but they should still be kept current.

Printers

Update the printer, and turn off any "remote print" or "web services" feature you do not use.

Not sure what a device is?

See Which device is this?

Not comfortable doing this? That is okay.

You do not have to do this alone. You can ask a family member, call your internet company, or take your router to a local computer repair shop. Take your time and ask for help instead of guessing.

Want a professional to look at it? Frequency 42 is the company that makes Network Check, and it offers IT help. You can email support@frequency42.com and ask whether they can help with this.

Then check again

Run the free check again after you make a change.

Run the free check