RTSP, or Real-Time Streaming Protocol, is a control protocol used to start, pause, and manage live media streams, especially from IP cameras and other surveillance devices. It usually works alongside a separate transport protocol that carries the actual video, but RTSP handles the session setup and stream control.
In cyber security, RTSP matters because it is often exposed on internet-connected cameras and recorders. Attackers scan for open RTSP services, try default or weak credentials, and then view live feeds or harvest snapshots and metadata without needing to compromise the whole network. Defenders watch for unusual RTSP access, repeated authentication failures, and cameras reachable from the public internet. Restricting access, changing default passwords, segmenting camera networks, and keeping firmware updated all help reduce the risk of RTSP becoming a quiet surveillance channel for an attacker.