Korean E-Commerce Giant Steps Up Security Measures After IP Camera Privacy Breaches

IP cameras, which allow remote viewing and control of recorded footage through internet connections, have become increasingly vulnerable to security breaches. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)

SEOUL, Nov. 4 (Korea Bizwire) – In response to growing privacy concerns over leaked surveillance footage appearing on adult websites, major South Korean e-commerce platforms are implementing new measures to help consumers protect their IP camera systems from unauthorized access.

The move comes after sensitive footage from private homes, vacation rentals, and even plastic surgery operating rooms was found circulating on illegal websites. IP cameras, which allow remote viewing and control of recorded footage through internet connections, have become increasingly vulnerable to security breaches.

While domestic Korean manufacturers are required to implement password protection features, imported devices — particularly those from China purchased through direct-to-consumer channels — have no such requirements. Users are limited to one device each, but many remain unaware of the necessity to change default security settings.

According to Representative Kim Jang-gyeom, a member of the Parliamentary Science and Technology Committee from the People Power Party, Coupang, one of Korea’s largest e-commerce platforms, has agreed to display security guidance on product pages for imported IP cameras.

The announcement marks a significant shift from the e-commerce industry’s previous stance that monitoring direct purchases was beyond their capability. 

Coupang plans to implement banner notifications advising buyers to change default passwords, regularly update security credentials, use password-protected WiFi networks, and power down or cover camera lenses when not in use. 

The Ministry of Science and ICT reports that implementing mandatory password settings could prevent 80-90% of security breaches.

However, the ministry acknowledged limitations in monitoring imported cameras, noting that most incidents are addressed only after breaches occur, particularly given the devices’ typical installation in private spaces. 

The privacy implications became starkly apparent in March 2023, when footage from a plastic surgery clinic in Seoul’s Gangnam district was leaked online, exposing dozens of female patients during medical procedures. Investigators found the clinic had used Chinese-made IP cameras with default password settings. 

Security experts warn that the rising popularity of cheaper alternatives from Chinese e-commerce platforms like AliExpress, Temu, and Shein could exacerbate the problem. Adding to the complexity, some allegedly Korean-made cameras may actually be rebranded Chinese imports, emphasizing the need for universal password protection regardless of origin.

While the United States has implemented trade restrictions through executive orders to address similar concerns, such measures have proven challenging to apply in the Korean context.

IP cameras have seen rapid adoption for monitoring children, elderly relatives, and pets, as well as for crime prevention. However, their ability to stream real-time footage and accept remote commands has made them a significant source of privacy breaches when left unsecured.

Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)