Widespread Hacking of IP Cameras Unfolds in South Korea

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

South Korea is reeling from a significant cybercrime incident as over 120,000 surveillance cameras installed in homes and businesses were exploited. These hacked devices recorded footage from private areas, which was subsequently used to produce and distribute sexually exploitative videos online.

Law enforcement has detained four individuals believed to orchestrate this extensive scheme. Reports indicate that the suspects primarily targeted low-cost IP cameras, often used by households and small enterprises for security, which were vulnerable due to unchanged default passwords.

Victims have been identified in various private environments, including bedrooms, karaoke venues, Pilates studios, and even a gynecological clinic. The investigation revealed alarming statistics: one individual allegedly compromised 63,000 cameras and generated 545 exploitative recordings, amassing around 35 million won (₹21 lakh). Another suspect hacked 70,000 cameras and sold 648 videos, earning 18 million won (₹10.8 lakh).

These two perpetrators alone were responsible for nearly 62% of all illicit content posted on a specific website last year.

Authorities have traced victims across at least 58 sites and are offering assistance in changing passwords, securing equipment, and removing illegal material from the web. Officials are advising all IP camera users to promptly modify their passwords and remain vigilant against suspicious incidents.

This incident follows a significant data breach affecting Coupang, one of South Korea’s premier e-commerce outlets, compromising the personal data of over 33 million customers. Dubbed the worst data leak in the nation in over ten years, both events raise serious alarms about digital security as reliance on connected devices grows.