Camera casting to unknown device

[Em4]

Hello! The other day I noticed on my Home app that my indoor Nest Cam seemed to be casting to a Sony TV. I do not own a Sony TV. I tried to stop casting and it would not work. Only when I lowered the volume on what I think was the TV, it stop. As if someone realized I noticed and stopped on their end. Is there a way to put a lock or password on the camera to prevent this from happening?

[kcruzgonzalez]

Hi @Em4,

Thank you for reaching out about this very concerning issue. I understand you saw your indoor Nest Camera casting to a Sony TV you don't own and couldn't stop it until they seemingly realized you were watching. This type of behavior is alarming and a significant privacy risk.

This situation strongly suggests unauthorized access to your camera stream, likely via your Google Home "Home" access, your Wi-Fi network, or your Google Account.

Here's what this situation likely indicates and what steps you need to take to secure your Nest Camera and Google Account:

How Casting Works and What This Might Mean:

Google Nest Cameras can be cast to compatible devices (like Google TVs, Chromecasts, and smart displays) by anyone who is

1. A member of the same "Home" in your Google Home app. This is the most common reason for unauthorized casting. If someone has been added to your Google Home "Home" and has access to the devices within it, they can cast your camera.

2. On the same Wi-Fi network as your camera and casting device. If someone gained access to your Wi-Fi password, they could connect a casting device (like a Sony TV with Chromecast built-in or a separate Chromecast) to your network and cast your camera, even if they aren't explicitly a "Home member."

3. Has direct access to your Google Account credentials. If your Google Account password was compromised, someone could sign in and access your devices.

Immediate Steps to Secure Your Nest Camera and Account:

There isn't a direct "password lock" for casting, but you can secure your system by controlling who has access:

1. Review and Remove Home Members: Open the Google Home app > Settings > Household. Immediately remove anyone you don't recognize or trust.

2. Change Your Google Account Password: Go to myaccount.google.com/security and change your password to a strong, unique one.

3. Enable/Verify 2-Step Verification: On the same security page, ensure 2-Step Verification is enabled for critical extra protection.

4. Change Your Wi-Fi Network Password: If you suspect Wi-Fi compromise, change your router's password. You'll need to reconnect all devices.

5. Review Google Account Security Activity: Check "Recent security activity" and "Your devices" at myaccount.google.com/security for anything suspicious.

These steps are crucial to prevent unauthorized access. Please take them as soon as possible. Let me know if you need any help.

Regards,

Kevin

[Em4]

Thank you!!