Use this home security camera buying guide to be safer at home
Here’s a conundrum: Your security camera could expose you to data breaches. Last year, a security researcher found that Eufy cameras uploaded private images to the cloud.
Anker recently admitted to storing images and video feeds in the cloud without users’ knowledge. This popular security cam manufacturer recently didn’t even encrypt the private content. That means anyone could have seen your personal images through your Anker devices.
The next time you want to upgrade your system, check this home security camera buying guide.
Home security camera buying tips
Don’t let this story dissuade you from protecting your home. Security cameras and video doorbells are easy and affordable ways to protect your home. Just make sure you’re using these strategies when shopping.
- Pick a tool with 2FA: Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security between your smart home and a snoop. Maybe someone in your life wants to see what you’re doing. Protect your privacy by requiring anyone who tries to access the system to provide a private code only you get. Authenticator apps are some of the best 2FA methods. We’ll help you set them up to secure your work accounts or security gadgets.
- Research the company’s data breach history: Some brands will put you in more danger than others. If a company has a long history of security breaches, you’re better off with another option.
- Consider the brand’s relationship with police: Are you comfortable with the police using your private footage? Arlo, Eufy, Wyze and Apple won’t share your footage without a court order or warrant.
- Go with big brands: Since large companies get more coverage, they’re also scrutinized and tested by security researchers, journalists and hobbyists. That means you’ll have more luck if you have questions since you’ll get more helpful results when researching security concerns.
Keep this in mind
Unfortunately, you must assume that your smart devices can be breached at anytime. All devices have vulnerabilities. Even the most trustworthy brand could have a hidden weakness a security researcher hasn’t discovered yet.
Think about the placement of your cameras. When a hacker could steal footage of you doing something private, like using the restroom, it’s time to move the security camera to a spot that preserves your privacy. Here are the best places to put your home security cameras.
Also, you could keep your camera’s storage system in mind. Before buying a security tool, consider where the footage will go. For example, a local storage system keeps your private videos from a company’s hands.
You don’t even have to connect your cameras to the internet. But if you get them without Wi-Fi, ensure they offer end-to-end encryption. We can help you save some research time. Check out the best security cameras for properties with bad or no Wi-Fi.
Save yourself time by using the home security system Kim trusts
Wireless charging is finally in your car - Here’s what you need to get started
Are you still buying gas station charging cables for your phone? Stop plugging it into the cigarette lighter and leaning it in the console (we all know it will slip between the seats anyway).
Magnetic-safe wireless charging is finally here for your car. Keep your battery full, your eyes on the road and charge smarter without dropping your phone. Here are our top picks.
Hand cramps? These vertical PC mice change everything
Using a PC mouse can cramp your hand and put your wrist in an unnatural position. Vertical mice help your hand stay in a more natural position, scroll easier and require less strain on your wrist. You’ll use your mouse with your arm and better control the cursor. These are our top picks to help your hands and make using the PC easier.
Best surge protectors and outlet extenders to give you more places to plug in
Most of us have thousands of dollars in expensive computers, phones, tablets, and other personal electronics. All it takes is one surge to ruin all of that. Tap or click to keep your electronics clean and organized.
You could be at work when a storm begins, lightning strikes a transformer, and a surge hits your corner of the power grid. A surge protector is the only way to know that your electronics are safe.
Best portable chargers, power banks and other ways to top up your tech on the go
We’re all tied to a handful of devices with rechargeable batteries. What happens when those batteries run out before we get home?
In many cases, we panic. We all want to make our batteries last longer, but as lithium-ion batteries age, they lose maximum power.
Belkin just released all kinds of magnetic iPhone gear - Are these accessories worth it?
Nearly a year ago, Apple released the iPhone 12 and resurrected a feature once exclusive to certain Mac computers: MagSafe. That opened the door to all kinds of magnetic chargers, mounts, wallets and just about any other kind of accessory you can think of.
Need a nice portable battery? This colorful one from Anker is on our wishlist
When you’re on the go, there’s no time to stand next to an outlet while your smartphone recharges. You need something that can be just as mobile as you are.
A portable battery is the best solution for those of us who use our smartphones for everything from sending and receiving business emails to turning off our smart appliances at home and messaging the kids about their after-school schedules.
7 projectors to create a home theater on any budget
Miss going out to the movies? You can make a movie theater right in your own home for a lot less than you think with a projector.
A nice TV set may give you a brighter and more detailed picture, but a projector is the best way to create a big-screen experience without completely blowing your budget. You can set it up and take it down, too, so no worries if you don’t have a room that can serve as your theater all the time.
Grab these office essentials while they're still on sale
Even though businesses across the U.S. are starting to reopen, no one knows exactly when life will truly return to something that resembles normal. And while working from home is still a relatively new experience for many of us, it could continue well into the future.