Chinese-Made Security Cameras – Are They Safe For Your Business?

As a business owner, ensuring the security of your premises is of utmost importance. However, recent news about Chinese-made security cameras being removed from government buildings in Australia has sparked concerns among many business owners nationwide. Whether you currently have Chinese-made cameras installed on your business premises or are contemplating their use, you might be questioning their safety and reliability. And, as leading providers of Hikvision security cameras in Australia, it would certainly be negligent on our part to overlook this subject. 

Thankfully, we’re here to eliminate any doubts or confusion that our clients may have regarding the use of Chinese-made security cameras. to In this blog, we will explore the question: Are Chinese-made security cameras safe for your business? We will examine the case of Hikvision, shedding light on the company’s reputation, potential risks, and factors to consider before making a decision. Read on to find out more. 

Who Are Hikvision?

Hikvision, based in China, has emerged as a major player in the global security camera industry. Established in 2001, the company has rapidly grown to become one of the leading manufacturers of security cameras and related products (and one of our bestsellers). Hikvision is headquartered in China, and operates in over 150 countries, serving a wide range of customers, including businesses, governments, and individuals. Their product portfolio includes a variety of security camera systems, video management software, access control solutions, and other innovative technologies designed to enhance security and surveillance capabilities for those in need of a commercial security solution. With a focus on research and development, Hikvision continues to push the boundaries of video surveillance technology, offering reliable and advanced solutions to meet the evolving needs of its customers.

 

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Are Hikvision Cameras Safe For My Business? 

When considering the safety of Hikvision cameras for your business, the unequivocal answer is yes. However, don’t just take our word for it. Here are several compelling reasons why Hikvision cameras are undeniably secure and an ideal choice for businesses aiming to enhance their security strategy:

 

  • Validated by IT Industry Leaders

Hikvision has garnered recognition and validation from reputable IT industry leaders such as Cisco and Ernst and Young. These organisations are renowned for their impartiality and objectivity when conducting evaluations, with assessments based on rigorous testing methodologies, industry standards, and best practices, ensuring an unbiased analysis of the products they evaluate. As such, their validation serves as a testament to the safety and reliability of Hikvision cameras, providing businesses with an added level of assurance when considering their security solutions.

 

  • Active Membership in CVE

Hikvision is an active member of CVE (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures), an encyclopaedic resource of publicly known cybersecurity vulnerabilities. With 116 members, including major IT, internet, and computing companies, CVE sets the de facto standard for identifying vulnerabilities. As one of eight Chinese companies listed alongside the likes of Apple and Microsoft, Hikvision’s inclusion in this prestigious group further demonstrates their commitment to addressing and mitigating potential security risks.

 

  • Government Certification and Compliance

In August 2018, Hikvision acquired the U.S. Government Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) 140-2 Level 1 certification. This certification, awarded by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), a division of the U.S. Department of Commerce, ensures that Hikvision’s cryptographic modules meet rigorous security standards. The acquisition of this certification showcases Hikvision’s dedication to meeting the stringent requirements of government agencies.

Additionally, Hikvision achieved the Certificate of Common Criteria (CC) ELA 2+ for Information Technology Security Evaluation in 2018. Common Criteria is an internationally recognised standard for information technology security, with member countries including the USA, England, Australia, Canada, Germany, and Japan. This certification further demonstrates Hikvision’s commitment to maintaining the highest level of security for their products.

 

  • Recent Network Camera Certification

Adding to their list of credentials, Hikvision recently obtained a CC EAL3+ Certificate for network cameras. This certification highlights their commitment to ensuring the security and integrity of their network camera systems. By achieving this certification, Hikvision reinforces their dedication to meeting international security standards and providing customers with reliable and secure surveillance solutions.

 

  • Adherence To Data Protection Laws

Hikvision strictly follows all applicable data protection laws, regulations, and norms of

operating around the world and in the European Union (EU), including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Hikvision categorically denies engaging in any form of espionage-related activities worldwide, both now and in the future. The company remains fully committed to protecting its customers’ interests, particularly when it comes to cybersecurity and user privacy. Neither Hikvision’s headquarters in China nor its subsidiaries abroad store, process, or transmit video data from devices used in standard video surveillance applications. Moreover, as a device manufacturer, Hikvision cannot access, store, transmit, or process video data without explicit authorisation from the end user.

 

  • Commitment To Transparency 

Lastly, Hikvision emphasises its commitment to transparency as an integral part of its business operations. The company understands the importance of providing clear and accessible information to its customers and stakeholders. By actively collaborating with third-party organisations and independent auditors to assess its products, systems, and practices, Hikvision aims to provide assurance to its customers and stakeholders regarding its commitment to transparency and security. Additionally, the company encourages responsible disclosure of vulnerabilities and actively engages with researchers to address any identified issues. This collaborative approach contributes to the continuous improvement of Hikvision’s products and reinforces its transparency efforts.

In A Nutshell

While it’s important to remain vigilant about security, it is equally essential not to fall prey to baseless rumours. While concerns regarding cybersecurity risks exist, it is essential to note that security vulnerabilities can be found in products from any manufacturer, irrespective of their country of origin. As with any technology investment, thorough research and consideration of multiple factors are crucial to making an informed decision for the security of your business. Thankfully, Hikvision security cameras offer businesses a reliable and secure surveillance solution, backed by industry expertise and internationally recognised certifications. By choosing Hikvision, business owners can have confidence in the safety and effectiveness of their security camera systems, ensuring the protection of their premises and peace of mind for years to come.

Get In Touch Today 

If you’re ready to enhance your business’s security strategy, look no further. Eversafe is the go-to provider for CCTV security systems in Melbourne, providing solutions for your warehouse, business, or other commercial sites. No matter the scope or scale of your business, our team of experts will guide you in selecting and implementing the best security camera solutions tailored to your specific requirements.  

 

Don’t wait till it’s too late — safeguard your business with Eversafe and our extensive range of security camera installations. Contact us now for a consultation and take your security to the next level.