ADT is a well-known and trusted home security company that offers a range of equipment and services to protect homes and businesses. One of the key features of ADT's offering is its security cameras, which can be used for indoor, outdoor, and doorbell surveillance. With ADT's security plans, customers can enjoy remote viewing, cloud storage, and 24/7 professional video recording. However, recent events have brought to light a different side to the company's security cameras. In 2020, it was revealed that a former ADT technician, Telesforo Aviles, had accessed the security cameras of over 200 customers without their consent, violating their privacy. This incident has raised concerns about the potential for misuse of security cameras and the importance of securing one's devices to prevent unauthorized access.
Characteristics | Values |
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ADT watches your cameras | ADT technicians have hacked home security cameras to spy on women. |
ADT technician Telesforo Aviles accessed more than 200 ADT customer camera feeds to spy on them. | |
ADT offers indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras. | |
With a camera and one of the two ADT Security plans, you can enjoy remote viewing, cloud storage, and 24/7 professional video recording. | |
ADT has an app called ADT Command (formerly ADT Pulse) that allows users to check video footage from their ADT control app. |
What You'll Learn
ADT technician hacked cameras to spy on women
In a disturbing incident, a former ADT technician, Telesforo Aviles, hacked into customers' home security cameras to spy on women. The 35-year-old Aviles admitted to federal prosecutors that he accessed over 200 ADT customer camera feeds, specifically targeting women he found attractive. He watched them undress, sleep, and engage in sexual activities.
Aviles worked for ADT and had knowledge of the system, which he exploited to carry out his invasive actions. He added his personal email address to the ADT Pulse accounts of his victims, granting him remote access to their video feeds. In some cases, he deceived the women by telling them he needed temporary access to test their security system. In other instances, he acted without their knowledge.
Aviles' disturbing behaviour went on for four years, during which he accessed the accounts of approximately 200 people nearly 10,000 times. His actions were only discovered when a customer reported a suspicious email on their ADT Pulse account. ADT alerted customers to the incident in April 2020 and Aviles was charged with computer fraud, facing up to five years in prison.
This incident highlights the potential dangers of internet-connected devices and the importance of prioritizing privacy and security. It serves as a reminder to be vigilant about securing one's cameras and personal information to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
To protect against such invasions of privacy, it is recommended to use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication when available. Staying up to date with firmware updates is also crucial to patch any weaknesses in the system. Additionally, it is advised to purchase security cameras from trusted and recognizable brands.
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ADT security cameras can be accessed through the ADT Pulse app
ADT Pulse offers a comprehensive home security system, including numerous component options, support for third-party smart home devices, and a robust app experience. The ADT Pulse app enables users to arm their security systems, set up custom smart home automations, turn lights on or off, and receive alerts and live video feeds when someone arrives home.
However, it is important to note that there have been security concerns with the ADT Pulse system. In 2020, it was revealed that a former ADT technician, Telesforo Aviles, had accessed the security camera feeds of over 200 customers without their consent. Aviles added his personal email address to the customers' ADT Pulse accounts, allowing him to watch them without their knowledge. This incident highlights the importance of securing one's security cameras and taking precautions to protect one's privacy.
To enhance the security of ADT security cameras and the ADT Pulse app, users should consider implementing strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, regularly updating firmware, and purchasing well-known and trusted brands.
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ADT offers indoor, outdoor and doorbell cameras
ADT offers indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras to provide comprehensive security solutions for its customers. The indoor and outdoor cameras allow users to check in on their homes from anywhere, offering peace of mind and a sense of security.
ADT's indoor camera options include the Google Nest Cam, which provides live HD video with HDR and familiar face alerts. This camera is available in wired or battery-powered versions, ensuring flexibility for various installation needs. The battery-powered option is also IP54 water-resistant, making it suitable for use both indoors and outdoors.
For outdoor security, ADT offers the ADT Pro HD Outdoor Security Camera, which captures clear 1080p HD video, even in low-light conditions. This camera is designed to withstand the elements, with snow-, rain-, and humidity-resistance, and can operate in temperatures as low as -40°F. The ADT Pro Outdoor Camera uses smart alerts to notify users only when it detects important events, ensuring users don't receive excessive notifications.
ADT also offers the Google Nest Outdoor Cam, which provides live feeds and timely alerts, helping users keep an eye on their home's exterior.
In addition to indoor and outdoor cameras, ADT provides doorbell cameras, enhancing security at the front door. The ADT Doorbell Camera includes motion detection, two-way audio, and clear 720p HD video with de-warping technology. This camera allows users to see and speak to visitors through the ADT mobile app, providing remote access and control. The wide 180° diagonal viewing angle, along with infrared LED night-vision technology, ensures a clear view of the front porch and yard, even in low-light conditions.
ADT's range of indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras offers customers a comprehensive security solution, providing peace of mind and enhancing safety for homes and families.
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ADT security systems are all professionally installed
ADT's Self Setup packages are a recent addition to the company's security offerings, allowing customers to save money by opting for DIY installation. The Self Setup option includes two packages: the Starter pack and the Premium pack. Both options offer 24-hour battery backup, 24/7 professional monitoring, and video camera recording.
For those who prefer a more traditional, professionally installed system, ADT offers the "Smart Home" and "Video and Smart Home" options. These packages include fire and CO monitoring and 24/7 professional monitoring. The equipment cost is included in the monitoring cost, resulting in a single monthly fee.
ADT's professional installation services provide experienced technicians who can customize the system according to the customer's needs. Appointments are usually available within 3 days, and the system can be up and running in one day.
ADT has been in the security business for 150 years, and its equipment and monitoring services are top-notch. The company's blue octagon signs are iconic and widely recognized, even by burglars. ADT's monitoring system can quickly alert the police to help stop a burglary in progress.
While ADT offers the convenience of self-installation, its professional installation services ensure that the security system is correctly installed and customized to meet the specific security needs of homeowners.
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ADT is one of the most expensive national home security companies
ADT offers three primary packages, all of which can be customized with additional equipment. The most basic package, called the Secure Home Package, includes a digital control panel with a touchscreen, three door/window alarms, 24/7 alarm monitoring, and professional installation. The equipment and installation cost of the bare-bones version of this package starts at $599, or $9.98 monthly for 60 months, and the monitoring starts at $45.99 per month.
The Smart Home Package includes everything in the Secure Package, plus a smart door lock, a smart plug, and the ability to arm and disarm your system remotely with the ADT Control App. The equipment and installation cost of the bare-bones version of this package starts at $919, or $15.32 monthly for 60 months, and the monitoring starts at $49.99 per month.
The Video & Smart Home Package includes everything in the Smart Package, plus an HD indoor camera, a video doorbell camera, the ability to view live video streams remotely, and customizable alerts. The equipment and installation cost of the bare-bones version of this package starts at $1,049, or $17.48 monthly for 60 months, and the monitoring starts at $57.99 per month.
ADT also offers a range of additional equipment, such as carbon monoxide detectors, smoke detectors, remote smart light modules, and smart LED light bulbs. However, its prices are set in stone, and you will have to pay extra for app access and full automation.
ADT's high prices give customers access to top-quality home security and reliable monitoring services. Its longstanding reputation and reliability make it a trusted name in the industry, with an A+ BBB rating. Additionally, ADT offers a six-month money-back guarantee, allowing customers to test the system before committing to a long-term contract.
While ADT is one of the most expensive options, its extensive history, reliability, and range of features make it a top choice for those seeking a guaranteed security brand.
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Frequently asked questions
ADT is a trusted name in home security and has been in the business for over 147 years. However, in 2020, a security breach came to light where a former ADT technician, Telesforo Aviles, admitted to accessing over 200 ADT customer camera feeds to spy on women. While this is an isolated incident, it highlights the importance of securing your cameras to prevent unauthorized access.
To secure your ADT cameras and prevent unauthorized access, it is recommended to use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) if available. Additionally, keep your camera firmware up to date to patch any security weaknesses, and only purchase trusted brand names.
Yes, you can use ADT cameras without a monitoring service. ADT offers a range of equipment packages, including the Secure Home, Smart Home, and Video and Smart Home packages. These packages include basic features such as a touchscreen panel, 24/7 alarm monitoring, and sensors.
It is possible to reuse ADT equipment with another monitoring company after your ADT contract ends, as the equipment is made by third-party manufacturers. However, it is essential to check the compatibility of the equipment with the new monitoring service.