Hacking Risks: When Surveillance Becomes Vulnerable in Early Childhood Services

As CCTV becomes a more common feature in Australian early learning centres, especially in response to safeguarding concerns, a critical question emerges: Are these systems truly protecting children—or exposing them to new risks?

While surveillance is often introduced with safety in mind, poorly secured CCTV systems can become gateways for cyberattacks, privacy breaches, and even emotional harm.

The Reality of CCTV Vulnerabilities

Recent reports reveal that over 40,000 internet-connected cameras worldwide are vulnerable to remote hacking due to unsecured protocols like HTTP and RTSP. These include cameras in homes, schools, and childcare centres—many of which stream live footage openly via IP addresses.

In Australia, Castle Security confirms that CCTV cameras are hackable if not properly secured, especially wireless models that transmit data over Wi-Fi. Common vulnerabilities include:

• Default or weak passwords
• Outdated firmware
• Unencrypted data transmission
• Poor network security

Once compromised, hackers can:

• Access live feeds
• Steal stored footage
• Monitor staff and children
• Launch further attacks on connected systems

Case Study: Breaches in Childcare Surveillance

In 2021, hackers infiltrated thousands of cameras across Australia, including those in childcare centres. The breach exposed sensitive footage and highlighted how DIY installations and unsecured networks can turn protective tools into privacy threats.

Even high-end systems aren’t immune. Vulnerabilities like CVE-2020-6852 allowed attackers to gain root access to cameras without a password. In some cases, cameras logged and transmitted Wi-Fi credentials to external servers, raising serious concerns about data security.

What’s at Stake for Children?

For children, the risks go beyond data. Surveillance in sensitive areas—like nappy change stations or sleep rooms—can violate their right to privacy and dignity, as outlined in Regulation 155 of the Education and Care Services National Regulations.

If hacked, footage from these spaces could be leaked, misused, or weaponised. This not only breaches legal standards but can cause emotional trauma and erode trust between families and educators.

Best Practice for Early Learning Centres

To protect children and educators, services must adopt robust cybersecurity protocols:

Leading with Transparency

Childcare leaders must communicate openly with families and staff about:

• Why CCTV is used
• Where cameras are placed
• How footage is stored and protected
• What happens in case of a breach

Empowering educators through trauma-informed training and ethical surveillance policies ensures that safety doesn’t come at the cost of dignity.

Further Reading

CCTV Cameras To Be Installed In Early Childhood Services
“Kindy Cops” and Cameras
G8 Education to Roll Out CCTV
Affinity Follows G8 Footsteps With CCTV Cameras

References:
Exposed Eyes: 40,000 Security Cameras Vulnerable To Remote Hacking
Can CCTV Cameras Be Hacked?
Exploiting Network Security Cameras: Understanding and Mitigating the Risks