Security cam app says unknown device accessed it? Here’s the fix

Quick answer for advanced users

Change the admin password immediately, disable UPnP in your router, and update the camera’s firmware. Also turn off remote access in the app if you don’t need it.

Why your camera app shows this warning

I know seeing “Unauthorized device access” on your security camera app is scary. It feels like someone is watching you. But don’t panic. This usually means someone tried to log into your camera or app account. They could have guessed your password, or your camera has a known security hole. Most home security cameras from brands like Wyze, Eufy, or Reolink use default passwords or old firmware. Attackers scan the internet for these cameras. They use tools to try common passwords. If your password is “123456” or “admin,” they’ll get in fast. The fix is simple: change your password, update the camera, and lock down your network.

Step-by-step fix

1. Open the camera app and change the password immediately. Go to Settings > Account > Change Password. Use a password with at least 12 characters, mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols. Don’t reuse a password you use for email or social media.
2. Log out all devices. In the app, look for “Log out all sessions” or “Revoke all tokens.” This kicks out anyone who already logged in with the old password.
3. Update the camera firmware. Open the app, find Device Settings > Firmware Update. If there’s an update, install it. Manufacturers fix security bugs this way. If your camera is more than 3 years old and no updates exist, consider replacing it. Old cameras are easy targets.
4. Turn off UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) on your router. UPnP lets devices open ports automatically. Attackers use this to access your camera from the internet. Log into your router (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1), find UPnP settings, and disable it. This stops outsiders from reaching your camera unless you manually set up port forwarding.
5. Disable remote access if you don’t need it. In the camera app, under Settings > Network, turn off “Remote Viewing” or “Cloud Access.” If you only watch cameras on your home Wi-Fi, you don’t need this. It removes the main attack surface.

Alternative fixes if the main steps don’t help

Sometimes the warning keeps popping up even after you change the password. Here’s what else to try:

• Reset the camera to factory defaults. Press and hold the reset button on the camera for 10 seconds. Then set it up again from scratch. This removes any malware or hidden settings an attacker added.
• Change the app account password too. If you use a cloud account (like Ring or Google Nest), go to the account settings and change that password. Use a separate, strong password for the camera app.
• Use a guest Wi-Fi network. Set up a separate Wi-Fi network for your cameras in your router settings. Keep your phones and laptops on the main network. This isolates the cameras. If one gets hacked, it can’t reach your other devices.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA). Many camera apps now support 2FA. Turn it on in Settings > Security. This means even if someone gets your password, they can’t log in without a code from your phone.

Prevention tips for the future

• Never use default passwords. Change the admin password as soon as you set up a new camera. This is the number one reason cameras get hacked.
• Keep firmware updated. Check for updates every 3 months. Set a reminder on your phone.
• Disable UPnP and port forwarding. If you must access cameras from outside your home, use a VPN instead. A VPN creates a secure tunnel to your home network. It’s safer than opening ports.
• Buy cameras from brands that support security updates. Brands like Eufy, Reolink, and Ring are better than no-name ones. Check the manufacturer’s website for their security patch history before buying.
• Block the camera’s internet access if you only use local viewing. In your router settings, find the camera’s IP address and block it from accessing the internet. The camera will still work on your home network but can’t be reached from outside.

I’ve been doing this for years. The unauthorized access warning is a wake-up call. It means someone tried to break in. But with these steps, you can lock your camera down tight. Don’t ignore it – fix it now and check again in a week.

If you’re still seeing the warning after all this, contact the camera manufacturer’s support. They might have a specific fix for your model. Also, scan your home network for other devices with weak passwords. A tool like Fing app on your phone can show all connected devices. Stay safe out there.