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Summer Travel & Cyber Security
Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, cyber security is important and essential. You should always do your best to safeguard your personal data, but business travelers should take extra precaution as both personal and business data may be at risk. Before you leave, be sure to review and apply these smart cyber security tips.
Lock Devices
Most devices (smartphones, laptops, tablets) have a security setting that enables you to lock your device using a PIN number or fingerprint ID. You should enable this on every device. In addition, you should change the PIN numbers you regularly use. Should your devices be temporarily misplaced or forgotten, this will be the first line of defense against a security breach.
Be Cautious Of Public Wi-Fi
If you are traveling abroad, the laws and regulations that govern cyber security are typically not the same as those in the United States. Although free Wi-Fi access can be very appealing, it can be particularly vulnerable to security issues.
Avoid any unencrypted Wi-Fi networks – ask the hotel about its security protocol before connecting. Be extra cautious using Internet cafes and free Wi-Fi hotspots. If you must use them, avoid accessing personal accounts or sensitive data while connected to that network.
Disable Auto-Connect
If your phone has a setting which allows your device to automatically connect to Wi-Fi networks as you pass through them, turn it off before you leave. It can be convenient when you are at home, but it is not something you should allow while traveling.
Disable Bluetooth Connectivity
Along with your Wi-Fi connectivity, you should also disable Bluetooth connectivity. Bluetooth signals can come from anywhere, and if left on, nearby assailants can connect to your phone and potentially hack into your device.
Minimize Location Sharing
When traveling, it may be tempting to share your experiences in real time on social networks. The problem with this is that it creates a security threat at home. Knowing where you are helps criminals determine that you’re not in your hotel room or at home, leaving these areas vulnerable to physical intrusion. Limit what you post online or save it until after you have returned home to minimize potential threats.
Install Anti-Virus Protection
One of the easiest and most effective ways to keep personal and company information secure while traveling is to utilize anti-virus protection. Choose a trusted brand of security and be sure to regularly update this software as new versions become available.
Update Operating Systems
Much like anti-virus software, your operating system should be kept up-to-date. This also applies to apps on your phone, especially those which you use regularly to conduct financial or personal business.
Update Passwords
Password management is ever important, so if you are going to travel, be sure to change all of the passwords you regularly use. If you must create a PIN for a safe or security box in a hotel room, make sure it’s unique and not something you commonly use. Don’t skimp on password creation either. Take the time to create something that will keep a criminal out of your personal property. Once you return home, you can changes all the passwords back.
In addition to these tips, you should also review the laws and regulations governing cyber security in each country you plan to visit. Be aware of your surroundings, networks, and devices to reduce the risk of cyber threats. Share your own cyber security tips with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
For a comprehensive selection of quality IP and HD security cameras to suit your budget and needs, please visit SecurityCamExpert.com. For questions or to request a free quote, please call 888-203-6294.
Types Of Night Vision Security Cameras
Security cameras with night vision are crucial for monitoring your property around the clock. Night vision technology allows you to capture usable images in low to no light conditions. This is extremely helpful as most burglars prefer to lurk around in the darkness.
Whether you are safeguarding your home or business, night vision security cameras are a great investment. Before you start shopping, review the different types of night vision to decide which will work best for your surveillance needs.
Low Light Night Vision
Low light night vision is also known as image intensification as it relies on image intensification technology to deliver colored night vision in very low light. Please note that in order to produce a color image, these security cameras need some available light.
Low light night vision cameras use an image intensifier which is a vacuum-tube based device. Electrons are emitted through a vacuum tube when the light strikes a charged photocathode plate. These electrons then strike the microchannel plate that cause the image screen to illuminate with a picture in the same pattern as the light that strikes the photocathode (on a frequency that the human eye can see). The image is said to be “intensified” because the output visible light is now brighter than the incoming light.
Benefits
- Despite needing some visible light in order to record, low light night vision cameras outperform IR night vision cameras.
- These are the only security cameras that can produce a color image in low light level conditions.
- You can find these cameras at cost-effective prices.
Infrared (IR) Night Vision
These days, most security cameras come with built-in infrared LEDs to provide night vision in low light or no light conditions. One of the most important features of these cameras is the infrared cut filter or infrared cut removable.
The IR cut filter is a mechanical shutter design – it is a piece placed between the lens and the image sensor, controlled by a motor or an electromagnet. These are used with color CCD or CMOS cameras to produce accurate color images.
When IR cut filter is activated, it will block IR light and allow only visible light to pass through. When the ICR is turned off, IR light will be allowed and images will turn into black and white mode.
If it’s controlled by a light sensor, at twilight, it simply sends a remove signal to the IR cut filter so that more light could reach the image sensor of the camera, thus, a black and white image is produced.
It is important to know that IR security cameras can be affected by glass reflection or window glare at night. Your video may be washed out due to overexposure of lights at night. If necessary, turn off the IP LEDs and any other LED indicators on your security camera.
Benefits
- Infrared night vision cameras can record in pitch black condition without additional light.
- These cameras are the most inexpensive, use less energy, and are very efficient.
Thermal Night Vision
Thermal night vision cameras have a unique lens that allows IR energy to pass through it. The focus light then hits a sensor that scans the information and draws from several thousand points in the field of view. This process creates a thermogram (an intricate temperature pattern) which quickly develops and then transforms into electric impulses, which are directed to signal processing unit that translates the information into data for the visual.
Created image displays as various colors that correlate to the amount of IR energy emitted. Instead of intensifying light, thermal night vision uses heat and can see no matter the light level. Thus, even in total darkness and poor weather conditions, thermal imaging technology allows users to detect and see at great distances.
Benefits
- Thermal cameras are the only solution to address a visible image contrast to see at night.
- As mentioned, these cameras are completely immune to smoke, dust, and anti-CCTV surveillance devices (visor glasses, infrared laser glasses).
- Government agencies, security companies, and large corporations rely on thermal security cameras for many security applications because they eliminate false alarms.
For a wide selection of quality security cameras, surveillance system packages, and more, please visit SecurityCamExpert.com or call 888-203-6294. You can also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
Improve Your Business Surveillance System
Video surveillance is a great asset for businesses, keeping properties, inventory, and employees safe. Should anything happen, security cameras provide video footage and evidence to help capture suspects. And while your surveillance systems are meant to secure your business, you must also protect and maintain your system to ensure optimal performance. Here are some smart business surveillance tips.
Secure Your Surveillance System From Hackers
Many business surveillance systems utilize IP security cameras, which require Internet connection to allow you to view your feed remotely. Unfortunately, this makes IP surveillance systems susceptible to hackers. Thankfully, there are ways to keep them at bay:
- Change your system password every three months and practice proper password management.
- Never keep default usernames and passwords. These can easily be found online, thus, leaving them in place gives hackers free admission to your system.
- Secure your business network – an unsecure network risks leaving open access points in your system, giving hackers the opportunity to access your surveillance cameras.
- Never connect your cameras to a public network. Hackers can easily access information (like video credentials) through shared networks.
- Choose cameras with encrypted signals – encryption disguises information sent over the internet, making it challenging for hackers to identify valuable data.
Avoid Video Surveillance Legal Liabilities
As long as you inform employees and customers that they are being recorded, as well as refrain from monitoring areas with a reasonable expectation of privacy, your security system should be free from legal liabilities. Here are the areas where people have a reasonable expectation of privacy:
- Bathrooms
- Dressing rooms
- Exam rooms
- Locker rooms
- Hotel rooms
Remember, the laws vary from state to state. Be sure you fully understand the laws regarding video surveillance, do not invade customer and employee privacy, and review the camera privacy laws in your state.
Strategically Place Cameras
Security cameras locations are crucial for complying with laws, as well as the effectiveness of your system. Be sure your camera locations meet these requirements:
- Install cameras in sensible areas, such as offices, stockrooms, behind cash registers, above entrances and exits.
- Place security cameras under sufficient lighting to provide clear quality images.
- Position cameras to capture wide angles for fuller surveillance coverage.
Store Video Footage In The Cloud
Cloud storage solutions offer excellent benefits and are a great alternative to traditional analog systems. You may consider employing cloud solutions as they are:
- Cost-effective – Cloud storage eliminates the need for onsite digital video recorders (DVR) or network video recorders (NVR).
- Accessible – When your data is stored in the cloud, it can be viewed remotely via smartphone, tablet, or desktop web browser any time.
- Flexible – New users, locations, and cameras can be easily added to your existing infrastructure without rewiring.
Increase Business Security With Additional Camera Features
Additional features can help to enhance your surveillance system overall. Some additional benefits include:
- Adjustable Angles – PTZ cameras can pan, tilt and zoom and cameras that are mobile allow for multiple views.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) Technology – Security cameras hosted on monitoring platforms powered by AI alert users about important or unusual events.
- Day/Night Capabilities -Night vision cameras utilize infrared LEDs and are helpful for those who need around the clock surveillance.
- High Resolution – These cameras provide the best quality images.
- IP-based vs. Wired – No video cables are required for IP systems.
- Weatherproof – Weatherproof cameras and housing are built to withstand outdoor conditions to extend performance.
- Remote Access – With the mobile app, you can use your smartphone to view footage and remotely control your system.
We offer a wide variety of affordable security cameras and surveillance systems – browse our stock online at SecurityCamExpert.com or call 888-203-6294 to speak with one of our experts. You may also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
Security Tips For Your Home
Summer is here and many of us are planning and going on vacations, leaving homes unoccupied and prime targets for burglars. Don’t be a victim – be sure your home is protected whether you are work or away on a trip. Here are a few simple ways to keep your home safe this summer and year-round.
- Lock Doors & Windows
It should be a habit by know, but sometimes we may forget. Before leaving your home or going to bed, be sure to lock the doors and windows of your home. Some smart home devices may even allow you to lock your doors remotely in case you forget, or if an authorized guest needs to access your home while you’re away. - Use A Home Security System
A home security system is a great defense against burglaries. The mere presence may make burglars think twice about targeting your home. These days, there are various systems available to suit different homes and budgets. If you need assistance choosing the right system for you, give us a call 888-203-6294. - Check The Locks
Much like every other area of your home, locks need maintenance, too. For the best security, install deadbolt locks on outside doors, and use the appropriate locks on sliding doors. Don’t forget to secure any pet doors before leaving as well. - Always Occupied
Your house should always appear occupied, whether you’re home or not. If you are away, use a timer to turn lights on and off to make it appear that someone is home. - Reduce Shrubbery
Don’t make it easier for burglars to hide on your property. Keep your shrubs and trees trim, especially those near upper levels and windows. - Secure Your Garage
Secure your garage like you do with your home. With the exception of detached garages, the garage has an entrance into your home and is a common target for burglars because it is often overlooked. The door leading to your garage should have a lock (a deadbolt for added security) and it is wise to park inside to make it hard to tell whether you’re home or not. - Lights
Use exterior lights to illuminate your perimeter. Motion sensing lights can be helpful for dark areas of your lawn, too. - Mail
If you’re going n vacation, stop your mail delivery or have someone pick it up. Built up mail is a tell tale sign that no one is home. - Outdoor Wires
Telephone lines and electrical wires should not be easily accessible. If these are exposed and easy to get to, intruders will attempt to disarm systems by cutting the wires. - Change The Locks
If you lose your keys, move to a new home, or have someone move out of your home, change the locks on the doors.
Share your home safety hacks with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. You can browse our stock of quality surveillance equipment and security cameras online at SecurityCamExpert.com. Contact us at 888-203-6294 to request a free quote or schedule a site survey.
Summer Water Safety
Water safety is especially important in the summertime, when beach and pool days and lake trips are abundant. Keep children and loved ones safe by heeding these essential water safety tips.
General Tips
- Look for U.S. Coast Guard approved labels.
Lifejackets should have labels that read “US Coast Guard Approved” or “USCG approved,” otherwise you can assume they are not safe. As your child grows, their lifejacket should meet their new weight, and should be replaced when rips, tears, or fraying straps are present. And remember, any items filled with air (arm floaties, rafts) are not considered life saving devices. - Assign adult, non-distracted Water Watchers.
At least one adult, non-distracted Water Watcher should be monitoring children in and around water at all times with no distractions (conversations, cell phone, reading, etc.). The Water Watcher should always be within reach and is usually safest in the pool with the children. For social gatherings, 10-15 minute Water Watcher shifts are recommended. And remember, if a child goes missing, always check the pool/water first. - Take family CPR lessons.
Learning CPR can make a difference while waiting for emergency personnel to arrive. - Schedule water safety & swim lessons.
Drownings and near-drownings are much more likely to occur with children that don’t know how to swim or are being supervised by adults that don’t know how to swim. While there are still risks with children who know how to swim, knowing how to and practicing proper water safety can significantly reduce the risks.
Open Water
- Have a safety plan in place.
Whether you’re at the lake or the beach, you should implement a safety plan before anyone gets anywhere near the water. The “Toe In/Vest On” policy is recommended, which basically means that if a toe is in the water, a life jacket must be on.
- Know the water conditions.
Conditions in lakes and oceans can vary on a daily basis. From clear to murky and calm to rough waters, it’s important to know the conditions before getting in.
Pools
- Install four-sided fences with self-latching gates.
Implementing this safety mechanism could prevent 50-90% of childhood drowning and near-drowning accidents. The fence should at least be 4 feet (ideally 5 feet) high with a self-closing gate that only opens out. In addition, pool gates should have child proof locks and remain locked when the pool is not in use. If you have pool and/or spa covers, they should be strong enough to support the weight of multiple children. Any doggie doors that have direct access to the pool area should be rerouted as well. - Create and follow all pool rules.
Your guest should understand your expectations about watching children in the water and abide by your pool rules. You may even consider creating a Water Watcher schedule so that non-distracted adult Water Watchers can work in 10-15 minute shifts. - Use pool/door/child alarms.
Doors and windows that open directly to the pool area should be equipped with alarms. These alarms can alert you when children may be going outside to the pool. Furthermore, pool surface alarms can alert you when anyone or anything falls into the pool. For added security, you can even put an alarm on your child that is activated when they are submersed. - Update pool drains and cleaning systems.
Pool drains and other cleaning equipment have powerful suction that could create a dangerous situation and should be avoided. Because swimsuit straps, hair, and other items can easily get caught, safety drain covers should be used as a prevention method.
Share your own water safety tips with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
Keep an eye on your pool and property with quality security cameras from SecurityCamExpert.com. Let us help you choose the right surveillance system to suit your needs and we can take care of the installation, too! To learn more about our products and services, please call 888-203-6294.