When you buy a security system, your goal is simple: protection. You want to safeguard your inventory, your staff, your intellectual property, and your physical premises.
However, many business owners in South Jersey, Philadelphia, and Delaware—from local retailers in Gloucester County to law firms in Center City—are unknowingly installing devices that undermine their security. By choosing non-NDAA-compliant cameras and Network Video Recorders (NVRs), you may be locking the front door while leaving a digital window wide open.
What Does “NDAA-Compliant” Mean?
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Section 889 bans the use of telecommunications and video surveillance equipment from specific foreign manufacturers due to national security concerns. While this law started with federal contracts, it’s now the gold standard for cybersecurity in the private sector—including for businesses here in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.
Non-compliant cameras, often from state-linked manufacturers, have been flagged for potential backdoors—hidden vulnerabilities that could let unauthorized actors access your video feed or, worse, your entire network.
The Network Threat: It’s Not Just a Camera, It’s a Computer
Many business owners in Cherry Hill, Wilmington, and the surrounding areas view cameras as passive devices. In reality, an IP camera is a computer with its own processor, memory, and operating system.
When you plug a non-compliant NVR or camera into your network, you’re introducing a device with questionable firmware behind your firewall.
- For Law Firms: A compromised device can become a “pivot point,” allowing hackers to access sensitive client data and confidential files.
- For Retail Stores: Cameras often share a network with your POS system. A vulnerable camera can provide a pathway for attackers to steal credit card data or inject malware.
The Liability Implication
Using insecure hardware can create legal and insurance headaches for businesses in the tri-state area.
- Cyber Insurance: Many carriers now ask if your network hardware is secure. A breach caused by known vulnerable hardware could mean denied claims.
- Client Trust: If you’re a B2B business, your clients expect you to protect their data. Using banned equipment shows a lack of due diligence.
The “Silent” Sales Tactic: You Must Ask
When shopping for a video surveillance system in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, or Delaware, always ask your sales representative:
“Is this system NDAA-compliant?”
If you don’t ask, some sales reps may not disclose this information, offering a lower-cost solution that puts your business at risk.
Beyond Hardware: The Importance of SICC Certification
Securing your business isn’t just about buying the right equipment; it’s about hiring certified professionals. Even the best NDAA-compliant hardware can be a vulnerability if installed incorrectly.
Look for integrators with the Security Industry Cybersecurity Certification (SICC)—a credential held by Systems Integrations’ lead engineer, right here in South Jersey.
Why SICC Matters for Your Business
- Elite Expertise: SICC is a specialized credential for physical security professionals who understand both security devices and cybersecurity.
- Global Standard: ANSI-accredited and recognized worldwide.
- Verification: Required for many enterprise and government contracts.
The Takeaway
When vetting a security provider, ask two key questions:
“Is the hardware NDAA compliant?”
“Are your technicians SICC certified?”
The Bottom Line for Local Businesses
The initial savings of a “budget” camera kit from a non-compliant manufacturer are erased the moment you suffer a data breach or loss of client trust. Security is about protecting your business infrastructure, not just recording video.
Ready to Secure Your Business?
Systems Integrations is the trusted, licensed security integrator serving South Jersey, Philadelphia, and Delaware. We install only NDAA-compliant equipment, and our lead engineer holds the SICC certification.
Don’t let your security system be the weakest link.
Contact us today for a free network security audit or to schedule a consultation.
- Call: 866-417-3787
- Contact: systems-integrations.com/contact/
Protect your business with certified professionals and compliant hardware—serving Gloucester, Camden, Burlington, Atlantic, and surrounding counties.