Home Security Cameras FAQ

Security cameras are double-edged swords when it comes to privacy. As the owner you undoubtedly see them as righteous tools to protect your property, valuables and most importantly your peace of mind. However, your guests and neighbors might have a different opinion as they fear that this army of recorders might be utilized to secretly spy on them. The truth is that there is a clear line between legally acceptable surveillance and unlawful filming. Since the latter could mean several thousand dollars in fines and perhaps even some jail time, it’s important to learn about the ins and outs of using security cameras.

Your own house vs neighbor’s house

It goes without saying that you have the right to set up security recorders around your home. However, it’s important to note that the devices should be turned at an angle that means the field of view won’t reach the neighbor’s property, otherwise you will be violating their privacy rights. The most prudent action is to point the cameras slightly downwards or aim them only at your front yard and driveway. And if you are on the receiving end of such surveillance, it’s possible to counteract the situation by setting up LED lights to blind your neighbor’s devices or ask the police to settle the dispute.

Public vs private surveillance

The situation has different implications depending on the location of where the cameras have been installed. Even though the wiretapping and surveillance laws are different in each state, they are all based on the idea of ‘expectancy of privacy’. In brief, security cameras are only allowed where the targets can’t have the assumption of privacy. This includes public areas such as parks and commercial areas where people eat, shop or will travel through. Interestingly, your own home doesn’t belong to this category and therefore you must ask for the consent of your guests before activating the cameras.

Video only vs video and audio

It’s important to know that you cannot avoid the accusations of invasion of privacy by blaming the subjects who should have noticed the cameras. The information must be shared beforehand in a clear and understandable manner. The signs sold by home security companies aren’t just for show, they serve this purpose perfectly. You must also mention the fact that the recorders are capable of recording audio as well as video, if applicable. If the answer is yes, then you must mention it. Generally speaking, people on your property must be fully aware of your surveillance’s capabilities, even if they are switched off or inactive.

This is a question often heard by homeowners looking at the cost of a full-blown surveillance system – which is hefty to say the least. Purchasing the devices is just the start, as you might want to hire a professional handyman to install it, while home security companies or hardware manufacturers also charge a monthly fee for extra features such as cloud streaming or facial recognition.

On the other hand, cameras are advertised as the pinnacle of home defense solutions. They are great criminal deterrents and even if a break-in does still happen, cameras will provide the most realistic insight into the situation. Not to mention that having a professional surveillance system installed in your home will grant a discount on certain insurance packages and the devices can be used for monitoring the kids or the cleaning lady during the day.

Yet the question still stands: ‘Are security cameras worth the investment?’ The answer actually lies in the type of property that you intend to protect.

Small homes

If you are living in a small house or apartment, opting for a full-scale surveillance network is a bit of an overcompensation and so it’s more prudent to purchase a single recorder instead. Companies such as Reolink or Blink offer state-of-the-art HD cameras that require no installation and can be set up anywhere. It’s also a winning idea to substitute outdoor cameras with a doorbell or peephole camera, while placing a motion detector on the driveway.

Speaking of sensors, smaller homes can be efficiently guarded by a few well-placed alarms that are backed up by smartphone app. Protecting the windows or glass balcony door with a glass-break sensor will serve you well, just like installing a motion sensor in the corner of the hallway. Those who still long for an affordable indoor camera have two options should either buy a hidden camera that disguises itself as a smoke detector or perhaps a book, or turn their trusty smartphone into a motion-activated recorder.

Large homes

Being the owner of a business or a large, multi-story building makes the presence of professional surveillance units both inside and outside a must-have. Displaying not one but multiple cameras is a surefire way to scare away would-be criminals, but even if thieves do decide to break in then with these installed you can also follow and record their activity via live streaming. This video evidence will also come in handy if you wish to make an insurance claim.

When dealing with a whole network of CCTV units, keeping an eye on the camera feed can be rather daunting, but the operators of a home security company will happily land a hand, even calling the police if necessary. This option is especially important if you wish to protect your vacation home. The other alternative is to purchase cameras that use motion-sensing technology so that they can double as alarms and pair them with a smartphone app to review security notifications.

The areas that the surveillance units should definitely cover are the main entrance, the back yard, the driveway, and rooms that contain your precious valuables. It’s generally recommended to aim the outdoor cameras in such a way that their field of views form a complete circle, while placing indoor cameras up high so that they cover everything. In the end, the key to making the most out of your money is to use the cameras efficiently.

Yes, surveillance cameras are among the most effective criminal deterrents. However, this doesn’t mean your home will be immune to thieves. The presence of outdoor recorders might convince burglars to choose another property instead of yours, but there are still attackers bold enough use a mask or try blinding the cameras with LED lights.

When it comes to intimidating burglars your home must send the message that the risk is bigger than the potential reward. For this reason you should put extra thought into the placement of the cameras and try to point them in such a way as to maximize their field of view. Windows are the second most favored entrance point, therefore don’t forget to guard them as well.

Fake cameras and poor setup reduces effectiveness

Dummy cameras are a big no-no because only rookie crooks are scared by them. Trained eyes can easily see through the facade and the realization of the truth of these fake cameras just adds fuel to burglar’s desire to break in. The same could be said about yard signs: only put out warning signs if the camera system is clearly visible.

A common mistake that undermines the effect of your surveillance unit is when expensive garden equipment and decor items out are left out in plain sight. If your riches are visible from the window, the incentive to break in overwhelms the thief’s sense of danger. In addition, it’s worth paying attention to the environment. Trees in the garden can sometimes grow to a point where the leaves end up obscuring the camera’s view.

Lastly, don’t place all of the responsibility on your surveillance units alone. You’ll be more successfully in deterring criminals if you have other security measures, such as a reinforced door or smart locks coupled with a doorbell camera. Also, the interior requires just as much protection; without alarms and motion sensors your home is defenseless should the burglar make it inside. In short, security cameras increase the feeling of safety but they can never replace regular alarms.

Only certain types of home security recorders called IP cameras require a wireless connection to the internet. Still, Wi-Fi enabled cameras are becoming the norm in the industry because of the convenience and useful features that they provide, such as sending snapshots directly to your phone or streaming footage to the cloud. But to make the most out of your high-end IP cameras you will need to have a high-speed broadband internet connection, otherwise the quality of the film will suffer tremendously, compromising the whole purpose of the device.

Fast connection is necessary

The biggest downside of having Wi-Fi-reliant cameras is that they are constantly sapping your bandwidth, which is especially problematic in larger households where someone is always using the internet. Whether or not the effect on the network consumption is noticeable will depend on the settings and the number of devices that are connected to the network. Obviously, the more IP cameras that you install, the slower your connection speed will be, and if you already have a slow service by default then you might need to dial back some of the features.

Minimalizing bandwidth use

There are a few tricks to reduce a camera’s bandwidth consumption. One of the major bugbears is compression, which is responsible for eliminating unnecessary frames to reduce the final file size. MPEG4 is the oldest and least effective way of doing so, so it’s worth switching to the newer H.264 compression type instead. Should the bandwidth usage still be through the roof, then also consider lowering the resolution or the FPS. But be warned, this will affect the overall quality of the footage.

Trying to accommodate the IP cameras into a slow Wi-Fi connection ultimately compromises the effectiveness of your security system, since the footage will appear blurry and janky and therefore harder to make anyone out. Purchasing a dual-band wireless security recorder is one solution to this problem because the higher frequency increases the transmission speed and in turn lowers the time that cameras need to broadcast the video. You can also maintain a suitable network speed by opting for motion-activated IP cameras, therefore only straining the Wi-Fi when it is triggered.

Technically it’s not difficult for CCTV units and wireless IP cameras to be able to record sound, but most of them are sold without this feature for privacy protection reasons. In order to enable audio capture, the device requires a built-in microphone, two-way audio or an input option for an external recorder. The best way to identify whether a camera is fitted with the necessary technology for audio surveillance is to look at the title or read the main description; no devices will be sold without disclosing this information. When there is no mention of a built-in microphone or two-way audio then your only option is to attach an external sound recorder.

How to record audio efficiently

There is no clear distinction on which types of cameras are graced with added audio surveillance since both indoor and outdoor cameras can be fit with built-in microphones. The most prudent choice is to opt for an indoor IP camera with two-way audio so it can be used to both monitor guests and family members and intimidate any burglars. As for outdoor CCTVs, placing them up high – where criminals can’t reach them – will often result in poor audio quality, which is why so many homeowners favor the attachable sound recorder that can be placed closer to the ground.

Privacy issues

As alluded to earlier, audio surveillance potentially violates people’s privacy rights. The law differs between states, but the general consensus suggests that eavesdropping on someone without their consent is illegal in places with a reasonable expectancy of privacy, such as public restrooms and even another person’s home. That’s right, even if your target is just a guest in a building that you own, secretly recording their voice still constitutes as breaking the law. Additionally, you must be very clear about the fact that the surveillance equipment is capturing audio too; a single yard sign that mentions the cameras without specifying the active microphones won’t save you from prosecution.

Finding better alternatives

As you can see, these regulations will ruin the element of surprise when it comes to audio surveillance. Since you are walking on thin ice in this regard, only resort to such devices if you are willing to disclose them to your visitors. However, purchasing sound-sensitive alarms – like glass break sensors – and setting up regular CCTV cameras will promise roughly the same results. Another workaround is to program the device to have the audio surveillance triggered manually after receiving confirmation from your other alarms that someone has actually broken into your home.

Absolutely not. Many businessowners play with the idea of installing a surveillance unit in the restroom to stop customers from vandalizing or stealing supplies , yet doing so will lead to a stern backlash. It doesn’t matter whether you own a business or a private home, cameras and bathrooms simply don’t match at all. Even though there is a little wiggle room if you know the loopholes of the law, the knowledge of your surveillance practices could get around and most likely put a dent on your reputation.

It’s called unlawful filming

It’s important to understand that you, as a business owner, have the right to place cameras in certain areas. The definition of privacy differs in each state but there is a general rule called reasonable expectation of privacy. In main parts of a public building where people shop, dine or receive some form of service, customers cannot expect full privacy and therefore they can be legally monitored by video cameras that have audio recording switched off. However, changing rooms or restrooms are understandably places of privacy. Anyone who installs a recorder in these areas can be charged for unlawful filming and could be fined for thousands of dollars and even sent to jail.

Find a better alternative

Bear in mind that setting up cameras in plain sight won’t negate the visitor’s expectation of privacy, but what about placing a sign on the restroom door informing customers about the surveillance devices? The legality of this case is debatable but, as discussed earlier, this might lead to people accusing you of voyeurism, ultimately hurting your business. Hanging the warning sign without the cameras is a bold move: on one hand you won’t break the law while still enjoying a scarecrow effect against thieves, but on the other hand the stigma of peeping would still exist and could ultimately hurt your business. The most prudent choice is to give up on your plans to monitor the restroom altogether and find other security alternatives instead, such as hiring a restroom attendant.

Deciding whether or not your security camera should be concealed determines many of the most important aspects when it comes to shopping for surveillance devices. Hidden cameras are seemingly the better option as they can provide HD footage of vandals and interlopers and still remain overlooked, meaning the equipment cannot be tampered with or broken. Sadly, hidden cameras are forbidden in public spaces and businesses can even find yourself on the wrong end of the law after filming visitors or employees without their consent.

Visible cameras: Good deterrents, big targets

Indoor and outdoor cameras are more accepted by the public when they’re easily visible and there’s a clear benefit for them being there. Displaying a fearsome network of surveillance devices is a proven way to deter criminals, granting you and your family peace of mind. Their open nature can be a drawback though, as criminals have multiple options to tamper with the unit. Shining an LED light is just one trick up their sleeve, while the craftier and tech-oriented robbers may even bring a software-defined radio that’s capable of intercepting the wireless signal, prying open the whole security system like a can of tuna.

Hidden cameras: Sneaky watchers

Hidden cameras are sneakier, and don’t give away the game so easily. They focus on the element of surprise instead of intimidating any thieves due to the fact that they are disguised as common household objects like a smoke detector, a book, plushy toy or even a coat hanger. Most hidden cameras are located inside the house, with a few exceptions of course. The general idea is to allow the criminals to fall into a false sense of safety. If they don’t spot an obvious camera on site then they become more careless, providing invaluable evidence for the police.

Making up your mind on which security camera to get is no easy task. Surveillance units come in all shapes and sizes, and so it’s vital to learn how to differentiate between them in order to make an informed purchase decision. The first step should be to decide whether or not you actually need a camera at all, since smaller homes and apartments can be defended by other means such as hanging door alarms, motion sensors, glass break detectors, and even repurposed smartphone cameras. If you’ve settled on the idea of a security, then there are certain features to look up to match the necessary purpose of your device.

Outdoor cameras

Outdoor cameras are your first line of defense. They act as both a watchful guardian and a fearsome criminal deterrent, and so the bigger the better. Outdoor recorders are nothing without a weather-resistant casing that allows it to withstand heavy rain and extreme temperature conditions. Mother Nature also has a nasty habit of smearing mud and dirt on the lens, so choosing one that’s easy to clean will save you a whole lot of trouble each month.

As for the specifics of a reliable outdoor camera, the most important factors are high resolution and a large field of view. To achieve the latter, it’s a good idea to opt for cameras that are capable of tilting and panning or turning in 360 degrees. Nevertheless, such features are just the beginning: if you wish to get the most out of the surveillance system then don’t forget important extra features such as night vision, motion-activated lights and activity sensors.

Indoor cameras

Indoor cameras serve a double purpose. On one hand they monitor your most precious items, but they also report on what’s going on while you’re away. Many homeowners use their recorders to keep an eye on the kids from the workplace or to check on the babysitter or housemaid. In order to have a clear understanding of what is happening inside the home it is better to opt for wireless IP cameras; not only do they fit anywhere in the room, but they also stream snapshots or live footage right to your phone.

Most indoor cameras are stationary and the head cannot be rotated, but you won’t really need to if you find a good vantage point. However, HD picture quality is even more important in this case because every little detail counts when capturing a burglar. Motion sensors and night vision are standard features for most cameras of this kind, but advanced units are also fitted with two-way communication and even facial recognition.

Hidden cameras

Hidden cameras are an different breed entirely, and you better tread on eggshells when utilizing them because surveillance laws will harshly punish those who engage in unlawful filming. Such recorders are disguised as common household objects to secretly take snapshots or film the events in the room. Hidden cameras are best to used inside but there are versions for outdoor use as well, but in these cases it’s integral to pick a device with weatherproof holster.

The most important aspect to keep in mind when shopping for hidden cameras is that they need to blend in perfectly in a given environment. Book cameras usually fit in every location, but a camera inside a cheap-looking toy would surely stand out in a high-end living room with expensive gadgets and knick-knacks. A smoke detection camera is another smart choice considering that even if the burglars detect the trick, they still won’t be able to reach the device to stop it. Overall, hidden cameras are capable of producing evidence footage of a crime, but have zero deterrence value.

People often wonder whether outdoor cameras are necessary at all. If you think about it, the same result can be achieved by simply placing an indoor camera next to the window, pointing it at the garden or front yard. Doing so not only spares you from messy installation – outdoor cameras need to be screwed to a wall or an object – but devices indoors are exposed to less dirt and therefore easier to clean and maintain. You won’t need to worry about any extreme weather conditions either. Unfortunately, this clever solution isn’t as simple as it might first seem and recklessly setting up a camera without forethought will only lead to dismal results.

Potential problems when using cameras behind windows

Mounting a filming device next to the window or a glassy surface will immediately lower the expected video quality since there will be an extra layer between the lens and the target. This would be an acceptable loss if it weren’t for the flare effect that totally ruins the footage. Window glare comes from multiple sources such as the sharp headlights of a nearby car, ambient differences between the brightly lit room and the dark garden, or the infrared LED light of the camera itself that creates a reflection on the glass. This effect resembles a solar hot spot that covers half of the screen in bright orange light, effectively obscuring any actions happening in that area.

Glass flare isn’t the only nuisance you will have to deal with. Window panels also threaten the camera’s motion sensing ability. Old-fashioned recorders with passive infrared sensors cannot be expected to work reliably due to these above-mentioned reasons, though advanced models that use software to measure changes in the footage should still work fine from behind glass.

How to make the most out of this solution

If you are hell-bent on monitoring your home’s perimeter from the inside, there are a few tips to help negate any common hiccups. First of all, make sure the camera is placed as close to window as possible. For this purpose consider purchasing a suction cup mount. Secondly, try to prevent glare from happening by turning off the camera’s IR lights or installing special infrared illuminators outside, although this would defeat the whole point of not having expensive electronic devices outdoors. In addition, ensure that the interior’s lights won’t create a reflection by placing the recorder in a black box or by covering it with a towel. And a final note: wash the windows regularly!