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The Advantages & Disadvantages Of Nanny Cams

Nanny cams can give parents peace of mind when they’re away from home. They can be hidden or installed in plain sight to monitor the nanny and children’s activities and behaviors. While some see as it as helpful, others may see it as an invasion of privacy or an uncomfortable situation.

Of course, there are rules and regulations in place to combat these issues. Recording a video of anything that happens in your home is legal, however, you must have a legitimate reason for doing it. Monitoring your baby or caregiver falls into that category, but regardless of whether the surveillance camera is hidden or not, they must be located in public areas of the house such as the kitchen or living room. Video recording in areas where there is an expectation of privacy (such as the bathroom or your bedroom) is not permitted.

When it comes to audio recording, you must inform and get the consent of the person being recorded. Because of this, often times nanny cams do not record audio. If you do record a video with audio that has evidence of abuse, the footage would be inadmissible in court and you could be liable for breaking privacy laws.

With that said, if used appropriately and within legal limitations, nanny cams can be a useful tool for parents. If you are considering installing a nanny cam, here are some of the pros and cons.

Pros

  • Peace Of Mind
    Especially with new parents, it can be hard leaving your children in someone else’s care. With a nanny cam, you can ease your worries by checking in on your children to see that they are safe.
  • Nanny Behavior
    If your children are young, they may not be able to tell you what is happening while you’re away. You can’t always rely on feedback from friends and neighbors who may see your children and nanny together at the park or school. The nanny cam allows you to monitor behavior and address any issues accordingly.
  • Connection
    For parents who feel guilty for going back to work and missing quality time with their children, nanny cams can enable them to feel more of a connection as they can periodically check in and see what their kids are up to.

Cons

  • Trust
    Aside from privacy issues, the person being recorded may feel violated or offended if they find a hidden camera. To combat this issue, it’s best if you are upfront and honest about your plans to install a nanny cam. Most nannies are comfortable working in the presence of a nanny cam.
  • Misuse
    Your nanny cam should be used to deter or prevent potential neglect or abuse, not used to capture it. Communicate your expectations and take action if you feel something isn’t right.
  • Legalities
    As mentioned, you must abide by the law. Look into your state’s laws regarding privacy and recording and be sure that your nanny cams and surveillance system are in compliance.

How have nanny cams helped you as a parent? Share with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.

Need help choosing the right nanny cam or surveillance system for you? Contact us at 888-203-6294 and we will be happy to discuss your options. You may also browse our stock of IP security cameras and other surveillance equipment online at SecurityCamExpert.com.

Choosing The Best Nanny Cam

Nanny cams help worried parents keep an eye on their kids or their own elderly parents. They allow individuals to check in at home for peace of mind. Whether you will be installing them in hidden areas or in plain sight, here are a few things you should consider when purchasing a nanny cam.

  • High Definition (HD)
    This is a video format which delivers a high pixel rate for improved clarity. While this is a great feature to have, it does increase the price and requires more storage. Think about your storage requirements, budget, and individual needs before making a decision.
  • Audio
    Nanny cams with audio let you speak to the persons in the room remotely. Before choosing a camera with two-way audio features, please look into legalities and follow the audio recording laws when you need to record audio.
  • Wireless
    Wireless security cameras allow you to watch live video feeds rather than recording for later review. You may want to opt for wireless cameras if you will be using them for a baby monitoring system.
  • Compatibility
    For remote monitoring, you want to be sure that your nanny cams are compatible with your smartphone or devices. That way, you can easily check in on your kid or parent and caregivers while you’re away.
  • Motion Activation
    Because monitoring our surveillance feed 24/7 is not feasible, motion-activated alerts are a great asset. Motion activation immediately sends you alerts when motion is detected in the range of view.
  • Recording
    While most nanny cams allow video recording on a SD card, this limits your storage capacity. For improved storage and reliability, choose a nanny cam with a network video recorder (NVR) or cloud storage.
  • Viewing Angle
    Choosing a wide-angle nanny camera will depend on the size of the room or area you would like to cover. If you do have a large space to monitor, be sure that your security camera has a pan-tilt function.
  • Power Source
    Typically, you can choose between battery-powered or AC power nanny cams. Battery-powered nanny cams use rechargeable battery packs, while AC powered cameras are powered directly from the outlet. Your decision may be dependent upon where you plan on placing your nanny cam. If no outlet is available in the area, you may need to use a battery-powered nanny cam. Be sure to look into battery life and invest in a backup battery should you go that route. If you need ongoing monitoring and recording, you may want to consider AC powered nanny cams.

If you need assistance choosing a nanny cam or home security cameras, please do not hesitate to call 888-203-6294 to speak with us. You may also browse our stock online at SecurityCamExpert.com or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.

Hiding Indoor Security Cameras

We all know that the presence of surveillance cameras can influence behavior, which is why we use them for security for homes and businesses. Although having them installed in plain sight can be helpful, concealing their presence can also prove to be beneficial.

Careful consideration goes into installing hidden cameras both indoors and outdoors. When installing these cameras outdoors, there are various discreet locations from which you may choose. However, hiding security cameras indoors may be a bit more challenging. Here are some tips to help you properly hide your indoor security cameras.

  • Wireless Security Cameras

Wires can be hard to hide as they must run along the walls. Instead, choose wireless cameras that can be controlled remotely and may use an electrical source or batteries.

  • Location, Location, Location

Choosing the right location is key when it comes to hiding your cameras. You want your security camera to go unnoticed, but you also want to get the proper angle and viewing field to capture valuable footage. Seek out areas that often go overlooked and are more crowded and busy than clean and spacious.

  • Size Matters

Because you are trying to conceal them, you want to choose cameras that are smaller than usual, but still posses the qualities and features you require. Small, compact, and wireless security cameras are ideal.

  • Heavy-Duty Adhesive Strips

Once you have chosen a compact security camera, rather than mounting it (which draws attention), use heavy-duty adhesive strips. Your camera may come with its own adhesive strips, but if not, you want to invest in the appropriate strips that can carry the weight of your camera (using additional strips may help reinforce it). But remember, if your camera works on a swivel & rotate mechanism, it may be mandatory to mount it to the wall.

  • Check Connectivity

Before settling on a location for your camera, you want to test the connectivity in that area. Do not ignore connectivity issues as these may indicate that your camera is not within range to receive the appropriate signals from the main hub. These issues will compromise the effectiveness of your camera, thus, you should find a new location that is within range.

In addition, if you will be installing multiple security cameras within your home, be sure to focus on one at a time. Install and test one camera at a time so that if problems arise, you can address them immediately.

When purchasing security cameras, it is important to evaluate the technical details and specifications of the different cameras and how they suit individual needs. If you have any questions or need assistance, we are happy to help – visit SecurityCamExpert.com or call 888-203-6294. You may also connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.

Hidden Spy Cameras

Before, spy cameras, like the ones seen in the movies, were merely pipe dreams. The ones that were available never really lived up to the expectation. Fortunately, technology improved over time and hidden cameras became more accessible to everyone.

Thanks to the Internet of Things, Wi-Fi enabled hidden cameras and DVRs are affordable and being used more frequently. You can use these wireless hidden cameras to keep an eye on your children, watch your home while you’re on vacation, or even monitor your business remotely. Hidden spy cameras can be monitored via an app or specialized software that you may access from your smartphone or tablet.

By employing wireless hidden cameras, you can discreetly keep an eye on things. Also, they are less susceptible to tampering as they cannot be easily detected. While visible CCTV surveillance cameras are meant to deter people from wrongdoings, hidden cameras are intended to catch people in the act.

Most hidden cameras are wireless to remain inconspicuous, however, not all are truly wireless.  Some are battery powered, while others may need to be prudently plugged in or attached to the electrical system in some way.

What usually confuses people when they see the term “wireless” is that it more commonly refers to the Wi-Fi connection, meaning you don’t have to connect it to any sort of landline or Ethernet cable. Most of these cameras come with their own software and must be configured to your network. IT may sound complicated, but it is no more difficult than connecting any other device to the Internet. However, some spy cameras require that users have an adequate working knowledge of IoT technology to operate them.

Before installing a hidden camera, be sure to review the laws regarding hidden cameras, surveillance, and recording.

Browse our selection of nanny cams, wireless surveillance, and hidden spy cameras online at SecurityCamExpert.com. If you have any questions or need assistance, please call 888-203-6294.

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Hidden Security Cameras Track Student Attendance

The importance of class attendance in relation to good grades was likely questioned and tested during college years (maybe even during high school for some). Whatever your excuse, there has likely been a time when your skipped a class. Some professors take attendance, whether verbally, through sign in sheets, or through their own method. Others simply go by the honor system, or leave attendance up to you. Regardless of your presence or absence, how would you feel about attendance being taken via hidden security cameras?

At Harvard, students’ attendance was tracked via hidden security cameras, without the professors’ or students’ knowledge. Hidden cameras were placed in lecture halls to take photos, which were later analyzed. Students were not positively identified; rather the amount of occupied seats was compared to enrollment numbers. Immediately after analyzing, photos were destroyed. Despite the fact that the experiment was submitted to a review board before being carried out, students and professors were still unhappy when the news surfaced. Moving forward, the undergraduate’s Dean’s office will be involved when approving studies conducted on campus.

Had the students been informed, do you think this would influence students to attend class, thus producing inaccurate or misleading numbers? We would love for you to share your opinions with us and your peers respectfully – find us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter and Pinterest.

When you consider using hidden security cameras, like nanny cams or spy cameras, please be sure to research your local laws regarding video and audio recording. Hidden security cameras are generally not allowed in areas with an expectation of privacy, such as restrooms, bedrooms, or dressing rooms. It is your responsibility to use these cameras legally and lawfully.

We’ve got great hidden security cameras and nanny cams for your home. For affordable quality, browse our selection online at SecurityCamExpert.com. You can reach us over the phone at 1-888-203-6294. Our office hours are from 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

What Are The Best Home Security Cameras?

The best home security cameras cover all your needs for a reasonable price.  These home security cameras don’t necessarily need all the fancy features, but can if that’s what you prefer. Convenience, suitability and affordability are key factors.

When planning home security, depending on your intention, you may want to conceal your security cameras. In these cases, hidden cameras or nanny cams would be a better choice because they are often disguised as everyday household products. These can diminish your suspicions about a new nanny or be sure that your kids are behaving while you’re away. On the other hand, blatantly placing camera inside and outside your home may scare criminals away.

Night vision is another key factor in determining which security camera is best for your home security system. For indoor surveillance, controlled lighting makes it easier for a security camera to capture decent footage. For night vision capabilities, the IR distance does not need to be that far as the cameras will most likely be monitoring one room or an entrance. For outdoor cameras, a farther IR distance would work better since you’ll be monitoring a much wider area.

Aside from those factors, choosing between different styles of cameras may rely on what works best with your home. The bullet or dome styles of security cameras are the most common. For home security, these types work just fine and tend to be cost-effective. When deciding between wired or wireless camera systems, it’s wise to keep in mind that once the burglar finds the wires, your entire system can be easily compromised. Wireless systems are usually favored for that reason, as well as not having to bother with cables and the added costs.

Another factor can be whether or not you can control your system or access your live feed via Smart Phone. It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t own a smart phone and isn’t attached at the hip, so the ability to link it to your phone proves beneficial.

Wireless home alarm systems can be a great way to support your security camera system. Motion sensors and door alarms can give you a better sense of security. You can also be alerted immediately if anything is triggered while you’re away.

Find the security cameras and wireless home alarm systems online at SecurityCamExpert.com or give us a call at 1-888-203-6294. We’re happy to help you choose the right system for your needs.

How Much Do Home Security Surveillance Cameras Cost?

Shopping on a budget for a security camera system? It doesn’t have to be that hard. Let SecurityCamExpert.com help you find smart solutions without breaking the bank.

Our selection of security cameras includes a variety of different styles with varying specifications. We carry security cameras starting as low as $20-$60 and reaching up to $250-$400 depending on specifications. You can pay for better quality and features, or you can get good quality for a decent price. It all depends on how much you can or are willing to spend.

For the most basic security system solutions, you can opt for dummy cameras. Our dummy cameras don’t exceed $30 so you can build a pseudo security system for cheap. Check out this SecurityMan Dummy Indoor Camera, it has a convincing look for a reasonable price.

If you want a functioning security system, dome security cameras and bullet security cameras are common types and low in price. Ours range from $40-$175, all dependent upon picture resolution, special features like night vision or audio components. Still, a great camera can be found for a cost-effective price. Our box cameras hover around the same range, but also require a separate purchase of camera lenses, which can add to overall cost.

As we move up the price ladder, our specialty security cameras like HD-SDI, high resolution, network IP and PTZ (pan/tilt/zoom) start around $100 and go up from there. It should be understood that you are paying more for performance and abilities. These cameras offer much better picture and allow you to better manipulate your viewing range. License plate capture cameras have magnificent zoom abilities along with solid resolution, so they can start north of $200.

While SecurityCamExpert.com offers individual security cameras, we also offer great packaged deals which can significantly assist those on a tight budget. Our camera packages include the basics: DVR (with & without hard drives), cameras, cables and power supplies. Our 4 camera packages range from $249 up to $549, while our 8 camera packages range from $329 up to $567. Our 16 camera packages range from $836-915, but we also offer wireless camera bundles that start as low as $139 and up. Our 4 camera IP/hybrid camera package starts at $399 and you can add more cameras or accessories from there. You can explore our packages options here.

Shop our inventory online and you’ll find security cameras or systems that fit within your budget. Would you rather get a quote based on your needs? Fill out our Free CCTV System Quote and work with our staff to create a security system within your means. Feel free to call us at 1-888-203-6294 with any questions you may have.

Hidden Cameras on Dairy Farms

Everyone and everything deserves to be treated humanely. Hidden cameras can catch unjust treatment in places such as dairy farms. Animal rights activists and dairy and meat eaters alike would be appalled to find that animals are enduring extreme abuse at the hands of merciless workers.

A dairy farm in Wisconsin is under investigation after allegations of animal abuse, with hidden camera footage as hard evidence to support its claims. The graphic recordings show workers beating, stabbing, and dragging the cows, which the farm firmly states is not part of normal practice. The nature in which these workers are berating and battering these innocent animals may make you sick to the stomach.

With the blatant proof of abuse captured by hidden cameras, the farm in question has fired two workers and another is suspended from working with the animals. Large companies who have done business with this farm in the past have decided to cut ties since the story broke.

Without the hidden cameras, knowledge of this abuse would have never surfaced. It is impossible to know how long this may have been going on or if other farm workers are participating in animal abuse. Animal rights activists may take comfort if all farms used hidden cameras to monitor their workers, but it is clear better regulation is necessary.

Bottom line, abuse is abuse, whether the victim is a child, an elder, a spouse or an animal. Implementation of hidden cameras can provide telltale evidence of violence, cruelty and criminal acts. The way to prevent this is to have strict guidelines and follow-up on proper execution of rules and care. Other farms may want to install hidden cameras now to keep an eye on their workers and avoid poor publicity which will negatively affect their businesses.

Hidden cameras can be beneficial in various settings. They can help catch acts that may normally be overlooked. Browse our selection of hidden cameras at SecurityCamExpert.com. If you have any questions or concerns, contact us toll-free at 1-888-203-6294.

Stop Elder Abuse With Hidden Security Cameras

Abuse is an ongoing problem and awareness is an important measure to prevent it from happening. Child abuse is always on the radar and on people’s minds, thus nanny cams have gained popularity. But often overlooked are the elderly who can become just as vulnerable with declining health and increased risk for dementia. Nanny cams can be just as helpful with your elders and their caregivers.

Commonly, the help of caregivers are enlisted within the home, so nanny cams and hidden cameras can be extremely beneficial, monitoring activity when you cannot be there. The elderly may also be placed in convalescent homes or assisted living communities. These facilities may or may not utilize security cameras, so it is best to inquire and do extensive research beforehand.

Elder abuse can take various forms, whether it is physical, verbal, emotional or financial abuse or neglect. They can be exploited, berated, or forced to sit in filth because they cannot help themselves.  We fight to keep our children safe but we must also protect our parents and elders.

Our best measure to prevent elder abuse is to catch it early. If you have an in-home caregiver, do a thorough background check. Strategic, covert placement of nanny cams or hidden cameras around the house can help to catch any wrong doing. It is also important to watch for warning signs such as a change in mood or affect, or signs of physical trauma in the form of bruises or bed sores. Listen to what they have to say and take note of body language, especially around the suspected abuser.

Another factor to consider is that the abuser is often a family member. Be wary of the warning signs as well as suspicious behaviors. Nanny cams and hidden cameras can show you how the caregivers act while you’re away and will subside or prove any suspicions you may have.

With the footage from the nanny cams or hidden cameras, you can build a case against the abuser and be sure that justice is served. With children and elders alike, we want to protect them from harm and nanny cams or hidden cameras can help to provide a sense of safety.

Visit SecurityCamExpert.com to browse our recently updated stock of hidden cameras & nanny cams. For any questions about our inventory, call us toll-free at 1-888-203-6294.

Protect Your Children With A Wall Clock Nanny Cam

An ordinary wall clock is an ingenious disguise for nanny cams. Functioning as a normal clock, a wall clock hidden camera is perfect since wall clocks are such a commonplace item in any room. With its convenient features, the SecurityMan Wall Clock Hidden Camera can help you monitor your home or small business.

Whether you are suspicious about your nanny or your kids, employing a wall clock nanny cam enables you to observe any activity when you’re not around. The SecurityMan Wall Clock Hidden Camera is an ideal candidate if you’re shopping for nanny cams or hidden cameras. This wall clock nanny cam captures color video, combats wireless interference, and is easy to install. The installation of this wall clock nanny cam involves minimal work – simply mount the wall clock nanny cam in the desired location and connect to a power supply. The clock itself takes AA batteries, but the camera requires an AC power adapter. Next, in relation to the wall clock nanny cam, the wireless receiver should be no further than 330ft in open space, or 100ft indoors. Maintaining a clear line of sight will aid in better wireless transmission, providing a more efficient wall clock hidden camera. The wireless receiver needs to be connected to a monitor for live, high quality color feed and you’re set! You can add a micro SD card for added recording memory (up to 32GB; not included). Additional receivers may be added so you can monitor from another room, however, additional wall clock nanny cams are not supported.

The benefits of hidden cameras and nanny cams can be quite significant. Have you noticed things missing in your home? Curious about what your kids do while you’re away? Nanny cams can capture all that activity and more, giving you hard evidence of theft or misbehavior. There have been far too many instances of child abuse and neglect with baby-sitters. Employing nanny cams could possibly prevent the abuse or catch it early before the repercussions worsen. If you even have the slightest suspicion, installing nanny cams is the easiest way to help keep your children safe so you can feel at ease.

Without costing an arm and a leg, the SecurityMan Wall Clock Hidden Camera can give you a sense of security. Wall clock nanny cams are perfect for hidden surveillance since people would rarely question the presence of a clock in a room. As technology advances, hidden cameras and nanny cams can be implanted in the most unassuming, mundane objects. Check out the SecurityMan Wall Clock Hidden Camera at SecurityCamExpert.com and find more options for nanny cams. If you have any questions regarding nanny cams or security cameras in general, call us at 1-888-203-6294.

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