How to Secure Dahua Camera from Hacking: 10 Essential Steps to Protect Your Surveillance System

Dahua cameras are among the most popular surveillance solutions for homes, businesses, and industrial facilities worldwide—reliable, feature-rich, and affordable. But like any internet-connected device, they’re vulnerable to hacking if not properly secured. Cybercriminals target Dahua cameras for a variety of reasons: to steal sensitive footage, gain unauthorized access to your network, or even take control of the device to use it in botnets. Recent security research has uncovered critical vulnerabilities (such as CVE-2025-31700 and CVE-2025-31701) that allow unauthenticated attackers to gain root access and execute malicious code on affected models[8][9]. The good news? Most hacking incidents are preventable with simple, proactive steps. In this blog, we’ll walk you through 10 essential measures to secure your Dahua camera from hacking, using official best practices and expert recommendations to keep your system, footage, and network safe.

Why Dahua Cameras Are Targeted by Hackers

Before diving into the solutions, it’s important to understand why Dahua cameras are a common target. The primary reasons include:

• Default Credentials: Many Dahua cameras and recorders ship with well-known default usernames and passwords (e.g., “admin” with password “123456” or a blank password), which are publicly available online. Hackers use automated tools to scan the internet for devices using these defaults and gain instant access[5][6].
• Unpatched Firmware: Outdated firmware often contains unpatched vulnerabilities—like the 2025 buffer overflow flaws (CVE-2025-31700 and CVE-2025-31701) that affected over 126 Dahua models—which attackers can exploit to take control of the device[8][9].
• Insecure Remote Access: Enabling port forwarding or UPnP without proper safeguards exposes cameras directly to the internet, making them easy targets for remote attacks[9][10].
• Neglected Network Security: Cameras connected to unsecure home or business networks (e.g., weak Wi-Fi passwords, no firewalls) are more vulnerable to lateral attacks, where hackers move from the camera to other devices on the network.

The good news is that Dahua actively addresses these risks through firmware updates and security guidelines—and you can take simple steps to fortify your system even further.

10 Essential Steps to Secure Your Dahua Camera from Hacking

Follow these steps in order to create a layered defense against hacking. Each step builds on the previous one, ensuring comprehensive protection for your camera and network.

1. Change Default Credentials Immediately (Critical!)

The single most common reason Dahua cameras get hacked is unchanged default credentials. Dahua’s default username is almost always “admin,” and the default password is often “123456,” blank, or “admin”—all of which are trivial for hackers to guess[5][6]. Even newer models that prompt for a custom password during setup may have legacy default credentials if not properly configured.

How to do it:
Log in to your Dahua camera’s Web 5.0 interface using the default credentials (if you haven’t already changed them).
Navigate to Setting → System → Account → User Administration.
Select the “admin” account and click “Modify Password.”
Create a strong password: At least 8 characters long, with a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols (e.g., #, $, !). Avoid common words, birthdays, or sequential numbers (e.g., “password123” or “123456”)[10].
Save the changes and log out. Use the new credentials to log back in to confirm they work.

Pro Tip: Never reuse passwords across devices (e.g., don’t use your email or social media password for your camera). If one account is compromised, hackers won’t be able to access your camera too.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Even with a strong password, credentials can be stolen via phishing or data breaches. Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step (e.g., a code sent to your phone) in addition to your password. This means even if a hacker gets your password, they won’t be able to access your camera without the 2FA code.

How to do it:
In the Web 5.0 interface, go to System → Security → Two-Factor Authentication.
Follow the on-screen instructions to link your phone (via SMS or an authenticator app like Google Authenticator).
Enable 2FA for all user accounts, not just the admin account. This ensures every user’s access is protected.

Note: 2FA is available on most modern Dahua cameras and recorders. If you don’t see the option, update your firmware (see Step 3) to access this feature.

3. Update Firmware Regularly to Patch Vulnerabilities

Dahua regularly releases firmware updates to fix security vulnerabilities, patch bugs, and improve performance. For example, the 2025 critical flaws (CVE-2025-31700 and CVE-2025-31701) were patched in firmware updates released in mid-2025—devices running outdated firmware remain at risk of remote hijacking[8][9].

How to do it:
Check your current firmware version: Log in to the Web interface, go to Setting → System → System Information → Version to find your camera’s firmware build time and version.
Download the latest firmware: Visit the Dahua Support Download Center or use the Dahua Wiki firmware search tool to find the latest firmware for your specific camera model. Always download firmware from the official Dahua website to avoid malicious files.
Update the firmware: Go to Setting → System → Firmware Upgrade, upload the downloaded firmware file, and follow the prompts to complete the update. Do not power off the camera during the update—this can brick the device.
Verify the update: After the camera reboots, check the firmware version again to confirm it’s up-to-date.

Pro Tip: Enable automatic firmware updates (if available) to ensure you never miss a critical patch. For cameras without automatic updates, set a monthly reminder to check for new firmware.

4. Secure Remote Access (Avoid Port Forwarding When Possible)

Many users enable port forwarding to access their Dahua camera remotely (e.g., from a phone or laptop away from home). While convenient, port forwarding exposes your camera directly to the internet, making it a prime target for hackers—especially if you’re using default ports (e.g., 80 for HTTP, 37777 for TCP)[5][10].

Safer Alternatives & Steps:
Use Dahua’s Official App (SmartPSS or Dahua Smart): These apps use encrypted connections to access your camera remotely without port forwarding. Download the app from the official app store, log in with your camera’s credentials, and enable encryption in the app settings.
Disable UPnP: UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) automatically forwards ports on your router, which can expose your camera without your knowledge. Disable UPnP in your router settings and your camera’s network settings (under Setting → Network → UPnP).
If You Must Use Port Forwarding: Change the default HTTP and TCP ports (e.g., from 80 to 8080, or 37777 to 50000) to a random number between 1025–65535. Only forward the ports you need—never forward a range of ports or put your camera in the router’s DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), which removes all firewall protection.
Use a VPN: For the most secure remote access, connect to your home/business network via a VPN (Virtual Private Network) before accessing your camera. This encrypts all traffic and ensures only authorized users can reach the camera.

5. Enable HTTPS/SSL Encryption

By default, some Dahua cameras use unencrypted HTTP connections, which means data (including your credentials and footage) can be intercepted by hackers. Enabling HTTPS/SSL encryption ensures all communication between your camera and your device (phone, laptop, NVR) is encrypted, making it unreadable to unauthorized parties.

How to do it:
In the Web 5.0 interface, go to Setting → Network → HTTPS.
Enable HTTPS and upload an SSL certificate (you can use a free certificate from Let’s Encrypt or a paid certificate from a trusted provider).
Set HTTPS as the default connection method. This ensures you always use a secure connection when accessing the camera.

6. Restrict Access with IP Filtering

IP filtering allows you to specify which IP addresses can access your Dahua camera. This means only devices with approved IP addresses (e.g., your home computer, work laptop, or phone) can log in—blocking all other attempts, including those from hackers.

How to do it:
In the Web interface, go to Setting → Security → IP Filter (or “Access Control” depending on your model).
Enable IP filtering and add the IP addresses of devices you want to allow (e.g., 192.168.1.100 for your home computer).
Select “Deny All” for unlisted IP addresses to block all other access attempts. This ensures only your approved devices can connect.

Note: If you access your camera from multiple locations (e.g., home and work), add all relevant IP addresses to the allowed list. For dynamic IP addresses (which change regularly), use a dynamic DNS (DDNS) service to map a static domain to your IP.

7. Change the ONVIF Password (Critical for Older Models)

ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum) is a protocol that allows Dahua cameras to work with other surveillance devices (e.g., third-party NVRs). On older Dahua firmware, the ONVIF password does not change when you update your admin password—leaving a backdoor for hackers to access your camera via ONVIF[8].

How to do it:
Update your camera’s firmware to the latest version (see Step 3)—newer firmware automatically syncs the ONVIF password with your admin password.
For older models that don’t support syncing: Go to Setting → Network → ONVIF, locate the ONVIF user account, and manually update the password to match your admin password.

8. Disable Unused Features

Dahua cameras come with many features that you may not use—each of these features is a potential entry point for hackers. Disabling unused features reduces your camera’s “attack surface” and makes it harder for hackers to find vulnerabilities.

Features to Disable (If Not in Use):
SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol): Used for network monitoring—disable it if you’re not using it for tracing or testing.
P2P (Peer-to-Peer): Used for easy remote access, but can be a security risk if not properly secured. Disable it if you’re using a VPN or official app for remote access.
Auto-Login: Disable auto-login on the Web interface and SmartPSS app to prevent unauthorized access if your device (laptop, phone) is stolen.
Guest Accounts: If you’ve created guest accounts, limit their permissions (e.g., only allow live view, not settings changes) or delete them entirely if not needed.

9. Secure Your Network (The Foundation of Camera Security)

Your Dahua camera is only as secure as the network it’s connected to. A weak network (e.g., default Wi-Fi password, no firewall) makes it easy for hackers to access your camera and other devices (e.g., computers, phones, smart home devices).

Network Security Steps:
Change Your Router’s Default Credentials: Just like your camera, your router has default credentials—change them to a strong password to prevent hackers from accessing your router settings.
Use WPA3 Encryption for Wi-Fi: WPA3 is the latest and most secure Wi-Fi encryption standard. Enable it in your router settings and use a strong Wi-Fi password (12+ characters, mix of letters, numbers, and symbols).
Use a Separate Network for Surveillance: Create a dedicated Wi-Fi network (e.g., “Home Surveillance”) for your Dahua camera and other security devices. This way, if your main network is compromised, your camera remains secure.
Enable a Firewall: Ensure your router’s firewall is enabled to block unauthorized incoming traffic. Most modern routers have built-in firewalls—check your router’s settings to confirm it’s active.

10. Regularly Monitor and Audit Your Camera

Even with all these measures in place, it’s important to regularly check your camera for signs of hacking. Early detection can prevent serious damage (e.g., stolen footage, network breaches).

What to Monitor:
Access Logs: Check the camera’s access logs (under Setting → System → Log) for unauthorized login attempts (e.g., multiple failed logins, logins from unknown IP addresses).
Live View and Footage: Periodically check the live view and recorded footage for unusual activity (e.g., the camera moving on its own, footage being deleted).
Settings Changes: Verify that your camera settings (e.g., password, 2FA, IP filter) haven’t been changed without your knowledge.
Unusual Network Activity: Use network monitoring tools to check for unusual traffic to/from your camera (e.g., large amounts of data being sent to an unknown IP address).

Bonus: What to Do If Your Dahua Camera Is Hacked

If you suspect your camera has been hacked (e.g., unauthorized access, unusual activity, footage tampering), take these steps immediately to limit damage:

1. Disconnect the Camera: Unplug the camera from power or disconnect it from the network to stop the hacker from accessing it further.
2. Reset the Camera to Factory Defaults: This erases all settings (including the hacker’s access) and restores the camera to its original state. Note: This will delete all recorded footage, so back up important footage first if possible.
3. Update the Firmware: After resetting, install the latest firmware to patch any vulnerabilities the hacker exploited.
4. Create New Credentials: Set a new strong admin password and enable 2FA.
5. Secure Your Network: Scan your network for other compromised devices and change your router’s password and Wi-Fi password.
6. Contact Dahua Support: If the issue persists, contact Dahua’s technical support for further assistance.

Final Thoughts: Security Is a Continuous Process

Securing your Dahua camera from hacking isn’t a one-time task—it’s an ongoing process. Cyber threats evolve constantly, and Dahua regularly releases new patches and security guidelines to address them. By following the 10 steps outlined in this blog—changing default credentials, enabling 2FA, updating firmware, securing remote access, and monitoring your system—you’ll significantly reduce the risk of hacking and keep your surveillance system, footage, and network safe.

Remember: The most effective security is layered. No single step will protect your camera completely, but combining these measures creates a strong defense that’s hard for hackers to bypass. Whether you’re using a Dahua camera for home security or business surveillance, taking these proactive steps will give you peace of mind knowing your system is protected.

Have you had any experiences with securing Dahua cameras? Share your tips or questions in the comments below!