EXPERT'S WORD Poorly protected cameras recording us can be a major risk

(Patria) - Thousands of cameras in Bosnia and Herzegovina are located on streets, intersections, in companies, buildings, and private homes. Some of them, due to poor or no protection, can be exposed online. The question arises how secure video surveillance systems really are and who can access citizens' recordings.

Using so-called OSINT tools, it is possible to find devices connected to the internet, including IP cameras. Experts emphasize that the tools themselves are not illegal and are also used to check system security. The problem arises when devices are not adequately protected, writes BHRT.

"Using such tools, it is possible to find that there are visible devices in BiH that fall into the category of IP cameras. The mere fact that something is visible online does not mean it is available to everyone or that it is not protected," explains IT expert Haris Hamidović.

Citizens believe that video surveillance contributes to security, but warn that nothing is completely secure today.

The majority of system breaches are not the result of sophisticated hacker attacks, but rather the absence of basic protection measures. The most common problems are factory passwords that have never been changed, outdated systems, and uninstalled security updates.

"When a manufacturer releases a security update, it must be implemented in a timely manner to reduce the possibility of unauthorized access to the system," says Hamidović.

In addition to security, the issue of personal data protection also arises. Video surveillance involves data processing, and there must be a legal basis for its use. Penalties for omissions can be in the millions. According to the Law, the processing of personal data through video surveillance is permitted only if it is necessary for the protection of persons and property and if the interests of the citizens whose data are processed do not prevail. The Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Zenica-Doboj Canton claims that the systems used by the police are secure and closed to external access. Approximately 120 cameras are currently operational in the Zenica area, distributed at key locations in the city.

"Modern protection systems prevent unauthorized access, detect any potential problem in the system, and enable an immediate response," states Lejla Ekinović, spokesperson for the MUP of ZDK.

Therefore, technology can increase citizen security, but only if it is itself sufficiently protected. That is why, before installing video surveillance, it is necessary to ensure adequate system protection.