Your cheap video doorbell may have serious security issues

Video doorbells made by a Chinese company called Eken, sold under various brand names for about $30 each, have serious security issues, according to User reports. These doorbell cameras are sold at Walmart, Sears, and even with an Amazon Choice badge on Amazon.

As is often the case with mainstream tech products, the device comes under a variety of brands, including Eken, Tuck, Fishbot, Rakeblue, Andoe, Gemee, and Luckwolf, among others. Most pair with an app called Aiwitt.

These devices are not encrypted and can expose the user’s home IP address and WiFi network name to the Internet, making it easier for scumbags to infiltrate. Even worse, someone can easily take control of it by creating an account on the Aiwit app, going to the doorbell, and then pressing a button to put it into pairing mode, which then connects it to their phone.

Worse, even if the original owner regains control, the hijacker can still obtain time-stamped images from the doorbell as long as they know its serial number.

There is no way to protect yourself if you own this series of doorbells. Temu said User reports addresses the issue. Amazon, Sears and Shein reportedly did not respond.

— Matt Smith

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