Computers & internet

South Korea: 4 Arrested for Allegedly Hacking 120,000 Cameras

Do security cameras just need better passwords and updates, or does surveillance technology create unacceptable risks?

Published DEC 1 2025

South Korea: 4 Arrested for Allegedly Hacking 120,000 Cameras

Story

Above: A home surveillance camera in Lafayette, Calif., on Aug. 1, 2024. Image credit: Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images

The Facts

Four individuals were arrested in South Korea for allegedly hacking approximately 120,000 internet protocol cameras installed in homes and businesses, with the suspects accused of producing and selling sexually exploitative content.
The Asia Business Daily
NewsBytes
BBC News on Youtube
One suspect hacked 63,000 IP cameras and produced 545 videos, earning about 35 million won ($23,840) in cryptocurrency. Another suspect hacked 70,000 cameras and produced 648 videos, receiving around 18 million won.
NewsBytes
Asia News Network
The videos produced by the two accounted for around 62% of all illegal recordings uploaded to a specific foreign pornography website over the past year, according to police statements released by the National Police Agency.
ChosunBiz
Korea JoongAng Daily
Two other suspects allegedly hacked 15,000 and 136 IP cameras, respectively, and stored the footage. But the police found no evidence that either distributed or sold the material, according to the National Office of Investigation.
The Financial News
Asia News Network
Police contacted 58 affected locations by phone, in person or by mail to inform them of the breach and provide guidance on securing their devices. They're working with foreign law enforcement to shut down the overseas website.
The Star, Kenya
The Korea Herald
Authorities advised IP camera users to set passwords of at least eight characters, including special symbols, change them at least once every six months and keep firmware up to date, as most hacked cameras had simple passwords.
Korea Herald
ChosunBiz

Sources Split

LEFT

CENTER

RIGHT

ESTAB
CRIT

CENTER

PRO
ESTAB

The Spin

Narrative A

Security cameras offer protection, but create massive vulnerabilities when hackers exploit weak passwords and remote access features. Major vendors ship devices with default credentials that criminals easily crack, giving them complete control over camera feeds in homes, schools and hospitals. The real solution requires constant software updates and proper cybersecurity practices.

PCMag UK

Narrative B

Installing cameras in sensitive areas creates far more dangers than it solves. Storing thousands of hours of video from 17,000 centers invites data breaches when even banks and airlines take cyber precautions. The focus must shift to proper staffing levels, background checks and systemic reforms instead of intrusive surveillance.