How to Protect Your Geeni Camera from Unauthorised Access
Geeni smart cameras are a convenient way to keep an eye on your home, family, and pets. However, like any internet-connected device, they require proper security measures to protect your privacy and prevent unauthorised access. If you're concerned that someone else may be viewing your camera's feed, this guide will show you how to lock down your account and secure your devices.
### Signs of Unauthorised Access
Be alert for these red flags, which could indicate that your account has been compromised:
- Unexpected Camera Movement: The camera pans or tilts on its own.
- Settings Have Changed: Motion detection sensitivity, notification settings, or other options have been altered without your knowledge.
- Unfamiliar Events: You see recorded clips in your history that you can't account for.
- Login Notifications: You receive an email or notification about a login from a device or location you don't recognise.
- Strange Noises: You hear unfamiliar voices or sounds coming from the camera's two-way audio speaker.
If you notice any of these signs, you must act immediately to secure your account.
Essential Steps to Secure Your Geeni Account
Follow these critical steps to ensure your Geeni cameras are for your eyes only.
1. Change Your Geeni Password Immediately
This is the most important first step. If an attacker has your current password, they have full access to your account.
- How to Change: Open the Geeni app, go to the 'Me' or 'Profile' tab, and find the option to change your password.
- Create a Strong Password:
- Make it long (at least 12-15 characters).
- Use a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols (e.g., @, #, !, $).
- Make it unique. Do not reuse a password from any other website or service. Using the same password everywhere is a major security risk.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
This is the single most effective way to secure your account. 2FA adds a second layer of verification. Even if someone steals your password, they will be unable to log in because they won't have the second piece of information: a temporary code sent to your phone.
- How to Enable: In the Geeni app's security settings, there will be an option for Two-Factor Authentication. Follow the on-screen instructions to enable it. It is a quick process that dramatically increases your account's security.
3. Review and Manage Shared Devices
The Geeni app allows you to share access to your cameras with family members. It's crucial to regularly review who has access.
- Open the Geeni app and select one of your cameras.
- Go into the camera's Settings.
- Look for an option called 'Share Device' or 'Shared Users'.
- This screen will show you a list of every account that can view that camera.
- If you see any email addresses you don't recognise, or if you no longer want a person to have access, remove them immediately.
- Repeat this process for all of your Geeni devices.
4. Secure Your Home Wi-Fi Network
Your camera's security also depends on the security of your home network.
- Ensure your Wi-Fi router is protected with a strong, unique password using WPA2 or WPA3 encryption.
- Change the default administrator password on your router itself.
5. Keep Your App and Firmware Updated
Always keep the Geeni app updated to the latest version from your phone's app store. Also, check for camera firmware updates within the app's device settings. These updates often contain important security patches.
By taking these proactive steps, you can be confident that you are doing everything possible to prevent unauthorised access to your Geeni cameras and protect your personal privacy.