If you want a doorbell that doubles as a super-sleuth, a doorbell camera is your best bet. They're among the best-kept home security secrets on the market. Thanks to their ability to catch mischievous thieves red-handed and provide daily doses of amusing moments at the same time, these little gizmos pack a big punch. There are, however, downsides to owning a doorbell camera, and here are just a few of the problems and what you can do about them:
• Law enforcement can gain access to data. To ensure your data remains private, look for cameras that save video footage directly on a microSD card instead of the cloud.
• Third-party companies can access footage. Check out brands like Netatmo or Lorex, which have high data-security ratings because they use local storage.
• The tech can be hacked. As soon as you install the device, change the doorbell camera’s default credentials, which will make it harder for criminals to hack the system.
• Your whereabouts will be monitored constantly. If you feel uncomfortable because a neighbor’s doorbell camera is aimed at your house, try communicating your concerns with your neighbors and finding a solution together.
• It could slow down your Wi-Fi. Make sure your Wi-Fi’s upload and download speeds are at 2mbps per second or more, which is what doorbell cameras need to perform well. You can also try removing smart devices and any other Internet-connected devices you don’t use regularly from your Wi-Fi network.
• It could be unreliable. Position your Wi-Fi router in a place in your home that allows for optimum reach, and consider upgrading to a more robust and reliable connection if needed. To minimize interruptions even during power outages, it could be worth investing in a battery backup system for your internet or a doorbell camera with built-in battery backup, which is how FBI agents protect their homes too.
