Suspect Unauthorized Access to Your Nest Account? Secure It

Worried About Unauthorised Access to Your Nest Account?

Your Nest camera system is designed to provide security and peace of mind. The thought that an unauthorised person could gain access to your account—and potentially your cameras—is deeply unsettling. Account security is paramount, and while Google implements robust security measures, it's also crucial for users to be proactive in protecting their accounts.

This guide will help you identify the signs of unauthorised access, provide immediate steps to re-secure your account if you suspect a breach, and offer best practices to keep your account safe for the long term.

Signs of Unauthorised Access to Your Nest Account

Be alert for any unusual activity related to your Google account, which is used to access your Nest products. Telltale signs include:

• Unexpected Sign-in Notifications: You receive an email or phone notification from Google about a sign-in from a device or location you don't recognise.
• Settings Have Changed: You notice that your camera's schedule, notification preferences, or other settings have been altered without your knowledge.
• Unfamiliar Devices in Your Account: You see a strange phone, tablet, or computer listed in your Google account's "Recently used devices" section.
• Being Logged Out Unexpectedly: You are suddenly signed out of the Google Home or Nest app, which could indicate that someone else changed your password.
• Strange Activity: In the most alarming cases, you might hear unfamiliar voices from your camera's speaker or see the camera physically move (pan/tilt) on its own.

If you experience any of these, you must act immediately.

Immediate Steps to Secure Your Account

If you suspect your account has been compromised, follow these steps in order to lock out any intruders and regain control.

1. Change Your Google Account Password Immediately

This is the most critical first step.

1. Go directly to myaccount.google.com.
2. Navigate to the Security tab.
3. Under "Signing in to Google," click on Password.
4. Follow the prompts to create a new, strong password.
5. A strong password should be long (at least 12-16 characters) and include a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using personal information like birthdays or names.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

2FA is the single most effective way to secure your account. It adds a second verification step, usually a code sent to your phone, making it nearly impossible for someone to log in with just your password.

1. In the Security tab of your Google account, find the "Signing in to Google" section.
2. Click on 2-Step Verification and follow the on-screen instructions to set it up.
3. Using prompts on your phone or codes via an authenticator app are generally more secure than SMS-based codes.

3. Review Your Account's Security History and Sign Out of Devices

Once your password is changed and 2FA is on, review your account for any lingering unauthorised sessions.

1. In the Security tab, go to Your devices.
2. This will show you a list of all devices currently signed into your Google account.
3. If you see any device you don't recognise, click on it and select Sign out.
4. For good measure, it's often wise to sign out of all devices and then sign back in again on the ones you own and trust.

Best Practices for Ongoing Nest Security

Security isn't a one-time fix. Adopt these habits to keep your account safe.

• Never Reuse Passwords: Do not use your Google account password for any other website or service. If one of those other services is breached, your Google account will be vulnerable.
• Beware of Phishing: Be suspicious of emails or text messages asking for your Google account password. Google will never ask for your password in an email. Don't click on suspicious links.
• Keep Your Software Updated: Ensure the Google Home/Nest app, your phone's operating system, and your computer's browser are always up to date with the latest security patches.
• Secure Your Email: The email account associated with your Google account is a key to your digital life. Make sure it is also secured with a strong, unique password and 2FA.

By taking these proactive steps, you can be confident that your Nest system remains a secure and private part of your home.