ENTERTAINMENT
Privacy Concerns Rise as K-Pop Star's CCTV Footage Leaks on Chinese Social Media
On the 28th, a video surfaced on China's largest social media platform, Weibo, showing a man and woman engaging in intimate behavior in what appears to be a bar room. The man is seen stroking the woman's head as she smokes an e-cigarette. The footage, believed to be captured by the bar's CCTV, is dated May 7.
Netizens speculated about the identities of the individuals in the video. However, some pointed out that the real issue is not the identity of the celebrity but the potential for anyone's privacy to be violated in this manner.
Domestic CCTV Security Issues Highlighted
The controversial CCTV footage first spread on Weibo, indicating that domestic CCTV footage containing private moments has been leaked overseas.
This is not an isolated incident. In 2022, reports emerged of Korean CCTV links being shared on hacker forums. In September of last year, over 500 videos of Koreans' private lives, filmed with Chinese-made IP cameras, were distributed on Chinese adult websites. Earlier in April, a Chinese-made home CCTV was hacked, leading to security concerns from victims who heard unfamiliar voices.
Increased Risk of Leaks and Surveillance with 'Chinese-made CCTV'
Security experts attribute the hacking of Chinese-made IP cameras and CCTV systems to their 'security vulnerabilities.' They note that small businesses, franchises, and self-employed establishments often opt for 'low-cost Chinese-made CCTV' to save money. This is also true for 'home cams' used to monitor babies and pets.
Due to these issues, most government and public institutions in South Korea reportedly impose restrictions on installing Chinese-made CCTV systems. In November 2022, the UK government banned the use of Chinese-made CCTV in key government agencies and sensitive facilities, citing national security threats. Concerns were raised that China could exert control over Chinese-made CCTV.
Similar regulations are being adopted in the US and other countries, as the movement to regulate the use of Chinese surveillance equipment spreads.
Solutions for National and Personal Security
A security expert advises that even if CCTV systems are replaced with Korean-made ones, failing to configure security settings can still lead to hacking and leaks. Therefore, security management is crucial after installation. They recommend changing passwords and disabling any sharing options through apps. The safest approach is to consult with the CCTV installation and sales company to verify external exposure risks.
Da-yeon Jeong, TenAsia Reporter light@tenasia.co.kr
