Several top baby monitors lack basic security, vulnerable to hackers, report says

Several of the top Internet-connected baby monitors lack basic security features, making them vulnerable to hackers, according to new report from a cybersecurity firm.

The research released Wednesday by Boston-based Rapid7 Inc. looks at nine baby monitors made by eight different companies.

The researchers found security problems and design flaws in all of the cameras they tested. Some had hidden, unchangeable passwords that could be used to gain access. And some didn't encrypt their data streams, or some of their web or mobile features.

Video baby monitors are very popular with many parents and the idea of someone else watching is frightening.

In addition, a hacked camera could provide access to other Wi-Fi-enabled devices in a person's home, such as a personal computer or security system.