Your Ezviz Camera May Have Been Hacked — Here’s How to Secure It
Your Ezviz camera may have been hacked — here's how to secure it. Follow specific steps to check device health, reset settings, and update firmware. Trusted by UK homeowners.
Quick Fixes to Try First
If your Ezviz camera is showing signs of a potential hack, start with these quick checks that take under 30 seconds to complete:
- Power cycle your camera: Unplug the camera for 10 seconds, then reconnect it. This can resolve temporary glitches.
- Restart the Ezviz App: Close and reopen the app to refresh its connection to your camera.
- Check the LED status: A steady green light typically indicates normal operation. If the light is blinking rapidly or unresponsive, there may be a connectivity issue.
- Verify power cable/battery: For battery-powered models (e.g. BC2), check the battery level in the app. For wired models (e.g. C6N/C3X), ensure the transformer is providing 16-24V AC.
- Check app login: Ensure you are logged in with the correct account and that Two-Factor Authentication is enabled.
Check Your Ezviz Camera’s Wi-Fi Band Settings
If your camera is connected to the wrong Wi-Fi band, it may experience instability or unauthorized access.
Ensure 2.4GHz Wi-Fi is Selected
- Open the Ezviz App and navigate to Device Settings → Network Settings.
- Confirm that your camera is connected to the 2.4GHz Wi-Fi band. Avoid 5GHz networks, as some Ezviz models (e.g. C6N/C3X) do not support them.
- If the camera is connected to the wrong band, switch to 2.4GHz and restart the device.
For Battery-Powered Models
- Check battery level: Open the app and navigate to Device Health → Battery Status. If the battery is below 20%, charge it fully before proceeding.
- Ensure Bluetooth is enabled: For EZVIZ BC2, Bluetooth is required for initial setup. Ensure it is enabled in your phone’s settings.
For Wired Models
- Verify transformer voltage: Locate the transformer at the junction box and use a multimeter to confirm it supplies 16-24V AC. Replace it if it is damaged or not functioning properly.
- Inspect power cable: Look for any signs of damage, such as fraying or exposed wires. Replace the cable if necessary.
Update Your Ezviz Camera’s Firmware
Keeping your camera’s firmware up to date is critical for security and performance.
Check for Firmware Updates in the App
- Open the Ezviz App and go to Device Settings → Firmware Update.
- If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it. This process may take a few minutes and will restart your camera automatically.
- After the update, verify that your camera is functioning normally and recheck the Device Health section for any anomalies.
Manual Firmware Update (Advanced)
If the app does not detect an update, you may need to perform a manual update using a computer:
- Download the latest firmware from the Ezviz Support website.
- Connect your camera to a computer via USB or Ethernet.
- Use the Ezviz Firmware Updater Tool to apply the update. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid bricking the device.
Factory Reset Your Ezviz Camera
If basic troubleshooting fails, a factory reset can resolve persistent issues or unauthorized access.
Model-Specific Reset Instructions
- EZVIZ C6N/C3X: Press and hold the Reset button for 5 seconds while the camera is powered on. This will restore factory defaults.
- EZVIZ BC2: Press and hold the Reset button for 4 seconds. This will erase all settings and revert the camera to its original configuration.
Re-Pair Your Camera After Reset
- After resetting, open the Ezviz App and go to Add Device.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to re-pair your camera. Ensure your Wi-Fi network is using 2.4GHz mode during this process.
- Once paired, check for firmware updates and reconfigure any custom settings.
Advanced Diagnostics and Manufacturer Support
If your camera continues to exhibit issues after a factory reset, it may be necessary to perform advanced diagnostics or contact Ezviz support.
Access Diagnostic Logs
- Open the Ezviz App and go to Device Health → Diagnostic Logs.
- Look for any error messages or unusual activity that may indicate a breach or hardware failure.
- Save these logs and share them with Ezviz support for further analysis.
Contact Ezviz Support
If your camera is still not functioning properly, visit the Ezviz Support website and use the Live Chat or Submit a Ticket feature. Provide them with your camera model, serial number, and any diagnostic logs you have collected.
Understanding the Root Causes of Hacked Ezviz Cameras
A hacked Ezviz camera is often the result of weak account security, outdated firmware, or improper network configuration. Common reasons include:
- Weak passwords or lack of Two-Factor Authentication: If your account uses a simple password or lacks 2FA, it may be vulnerable to brute-force attacks.
- Outdated firmware: Older firmware versions may have security vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit.
- Public Wi-Fi or 5GHz networks: Some Ezviz models (e.g. C6N/C3X) are not compatible with 5GHz networks, and using public Wi-Fi may expose your camera to unauthorized access.
UK-Specific Challenges
In the UK, some older homes may have outdated wiring or limited Wi-Fi coverage, which can affect camera performance. Additionally, the use of 5GHz networks by some ISPs may cause compatibility issues with Ezviz models.
Preventing Future Hacks and Long-Term Care
To ensure your Ezviz camera remains secure, follow these best practices:
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: This adds an extra layer of security to your Ezviz account.
- Disable Public Sharing: In the app, go to Device Settings → Privacy and disable Public Sharing to prevent strangers from accessing your camera.
- Use Ethernet for Stability: For EZVIZ C3X, consider using an Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi for more reliable performance.
Full disclosure: we built scOS to address exactly this — the frustration of cameras that depend on Wi-Fi to function. scOS uses permanently powered cameras connected via ethernet.
When Is It Time to Replace Your Ezviz Camera?
Ezviz cameras typically have a lifespan of 3-5 years for battery-powered models and 5-8 years for wired models. Signs that replacement may be needed include:
- Battery degradation: Battery-powered models (e.g. BC2) may degrade after 300-500 cycles, reducing battery life.
- Firmware end-of-life (EOL): If your camera no longer receives firmware updates, it may be vulnerable to new threats.
- Hardware failure: If your camera consistently fails to connect or resets unexpectedly, it may be time to replace it.
Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, UK consumers have up to 6 years to claim faulty goods. If your camera is still under warranty, contact the manufacturer for a replacement or repair.