South Korea’s authorities arrested four suspects for IP camera hacking, highlighting growing concerns over privacy and connected-device security. The Ministry of Science and ICT, Personal Information Protection Commission, and National Police Agency announced plans to enforce stricter regulations on IP cameras.
Police said the four individuals hacked roughly 120,000 internet-connected cameras nationwide. Experts noted that many cameras, especially Chinese imports, lack basic security. Consequently, sensitive footage from homes, hospitals, and public facilities has repeatedly leaked online.
IP camera hacking has surged because these devices connect directly to the internet for remote monitoring. Unlike traditional CCTV, they rely on cloud servers, often operated abroad. Security experts warned that attackers can access vast amounts of footage simultaneously once they compromise servers.
Authorities also identified that most breaches result from weak passwords or unpatched software rather than complex cyber skills. Police emphasized that low-cost models sometimes require no password at all. One official stated, “Hackers exploit simple security flaws repeatedly, making even ordinary devices highly vulnerable.”
Industry analysts pointed out that nearly 80 percent of IP cameras sold domestically are Chinese-made and lack South Korea’s voluntary IoT security certification. Adoption of the certification program remains low due to high costs and optional participation. Experts urged the government to reassess the system’s effectiveness.
In response to growing public concern, authorities plan mandatory security rules for IP cameras. Facilities like hospitals, gyms, swimming pools, and maternity centers will receive formal notices about compliance under the Personal Information Protection Act. Joint inspections of high-risk locations are scheduled to begin this month.
Additionally, new legislation aims to require security-certified devices across sensitive sites. Officials said the rules would cover device maintenance, hacking prevention, and incident response. The government also plans enhanced oversight of companies involved in prior large-scale data breaches.
Experts emphasized that stricter regulations are necessary to prevent further IP camera hacking. They argued that technological convenience must be balanced with strong security to safeguard public privacy.
