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Pros & Cons Of Public Security Cameras
There is much debate on whether or not surveillance cameras should be installed in public places such as airports, schools, libraries, and stores. The line between privacy and security is thin and both sides can be argued.
Although so may feel like public surveillance is an invasion of privacy, laws that prohibit surveillance in public places are few and far between, and may be limited to geographical areas. For example, in New York, police may only use video surveillance footage as part of an investigation into the alleged criminals after obtaining a warrant from local authorities.
And remember, placing cameras in areas where an individual has a reasonable expectation of privacy (ex. bathrooms, changing rooms) is always prohibited.
Let’s look at the different pros and cons of public surveillance.
Pro: Increase Public Safety
Just like surveillance on our private property improves our home security, surveillance in public areas increases public safety. Public surveillance can aid in keeping you safe when you are out and about.
Public security cameras can keep an eye out for crimes as well as act as a deterrent. For example, if suspicious individuals are seen in an area, authorities may be able to get ahead of the situation and possibly move innocent bystanders out of harm’s way.
Pro: Reduce Crime Rate
According to statistics, after security cameras are installed, crimes rates drop. For example, crime rates in Humboldt Park dropped 20% after video surveillance was implemented. As previously mentioned, the presence of security cameras act as a deterrent as criminals do not want to risk getting caught on camera.
Pro: Helps Catch Criminals
For crimes committed where video surveillance is present, the chance of catching criminals is much higher. With advanced technology like facial recognition, security cameras may be able to better identify criminals, helping authorities to track them down. Also, these images and information may be shared with the public to help spread the word. It may be difficult to obtain eyewitness accounts, but with security cameras, you often have video evidence of the events that transpired.
Pro: Provide Evidence & Gather Clues
Along the same lines, surveillance footage can be used as evidence in the courtroom. On the other hand, video footage may also help to prove a person’s innocence. Either way, recordings of public areas can help provide clues to solve crimes, and may even provide solid evidence for criminal cases.
Pro: Convenience
Convenience comes in the form of traffic cameras. Surveillance cameras at stoplights help to prevent drivers from speeding through a red light, while security cameras installed on streets and freeways can help to monitor traffic conditions in real-time.
Con: Easily Abused
Unfortunately, this helpful technology can be easily abused. For example, information collected from public cameras can potentially be used as a form of blackmail. Another example is voyeurism and stalking. To combat these issues, strict regulations on public surveillance must be put into place.
Con: Doubts About Effectiveness
In addition, many people doubt the effectiveness of public surveillance. While statistics may show that crimes and incident rates have decreased, security cameras are not as effective when it comes to horrific acts such as terrorism.
Con: Expensive
The cost of public security cameras is another issue. Since many doubt the effectiveness, they feel that public surveillance systems are a waste of money. They argue that high maintenance and costs of these systems is not justified by their limited results.
As you can see, both sides have valid arguments. It is a matter of whether the pros outweigh the cons or vice versa. For the most part, public surveillance has been working for our benefit. Feel free to share your thoughts on the matter with us and your peers on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
Please call us at 888-203-6294 if you have any questions regarding our security cameras or installation services, or to request a free quote! You can also visit us online at SecurityCamExpert.com, where you’ll find more information about our products and service. We are happy to help you protect yourself and your loved ones.
Video Surveillance Tricks
Surveillance systems installed at your home or business help to enhance your security by allowing you to keep any eye on your property. They can aid in keeping your loved ones safe, as well as potentially deter criminals from targeting you. And after installation, there are ways to make the most of your surveillance system. Review these tricks to enhance your security.
- Learn The Ins & Outs
Security cameras have different features, so it is important that you choose one that suits your needs. It is also imperative that you learn what your surveillance cameras can do by reading manuals and watching tutorials as necessary.
- Get The Mobile App
Most surveillance systems have an accompanying app which allows you to access your feed and manage your system remotely, as well as provide alerts. Without it, you miss out on these great opportunities to enhance your security.
- Register For E-Mail Alerts
When motion or suspicious activity is detected, you will be notified via e-mail which may be accompanied by video footage.
- Register For Text Alerts
For even faster access, sign up for text alerts. You’ll get essentially the same alert you would via e-mail, but in a text.
- Choose The Right Cameras
As mentioned, it is important to choose cameras with the right features and functions that will cater to your specific surveillance needs. For example, night vision cameras are great for areas that need around the clock monitoring, and day/night cameras are great for outdoor use where lighting can vary. There are a multitude of security cameras on the market with a variety of features so you are sure to find the ones that suit your needs.
- Petsit & Babysit
Indoor security cameras can give you peace of mind when it comes to pets and older children who may be home alone.
- Understand Privacy Mode
If you want to record but don’t want the recordings to be visible remotely, you can turn on privacy mode.
- Set Scheduled Times
Rather than setting your security camera on motion detection only, you can set the times you want your system to record. You can watch the footage in real-time or at a later date, either on the web or your mobile device.
- Manage Your Cameras Remotely
As mentioned, you can manage your camera system remotely via an app installed on a PC or smart device.
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If you need helping choosing a new security camera system for your home or business, please feel free to contact us! You can browse our stock online or give us a call 888-203-6294 to speak with one of our representatives directly. Your security is our priority and we are always happy to help.
Campus Surveillance & Security Measures
As students head back to school, it is important to consider campus security and how we can keep our children safe. Surveillance camera systems on campus are important assets in helping to make schools safer – here’s why.
Deter Crime
The mere presence of security cameras is known to reduce criminal activity. Bottom line, surveillance poses a risk of getting caught and criminals simply don’t want that.
Prevent Vandalism & Theft
Because schools and campuses have predictable off hours, it is easy for vandals and thieves to target them. However, strategically placed security cameras and alarm systems can help to prevent this type of activity.
Eliminate Unauthorized Intruders
By monitoring and evaluating surveillance footage, you can more easily identify persons that do not belong in the area.
Monitor Entrances, Exits & Corridors
Since foot traffic is high during the school day, most entrances and exits must remain unlocked, making them vulnerable to intruders. Keeping an eye on these, as well as hallways and corridors, will help identify who is or has been on school property as well as what they did or are doing there.
Visitor Monitoring
Any visitor can pose a potential threat, and surveillance camera footage can keep track of that. Having eyes on the situation allows for quick response if any misbehavior or misconduct occurs.
We carry a wide variety of security cameras and surveillance packages for your home, school, or business. Visit us online at SecurityCamExpert.com to browse our stock, or call 888-203-6294 to schedule a site survey or request a free quote. You can also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
What You Need To Know About Cloud Cameras
What are cloud cameras and why should you invest in them?
A cloud-based security camera, or cloud camera, is a security camera that is closely related to the IP camera. Both cloud and IP cameras connect to the internet, however, with cloud cameras, you need not assign IP addresses to each camera. Cloud cameras make it simple – all they need is a power cord and an Ethernet cable and you’re set. Cloud cameras will come with software or an app that enables streaming and remote camera management via smart device or computer.
On the upside, cloud cameras offer excellent benefits for users. First of all, these cameras are extremely easy to set up as they essentially plug-and-play. They are compact, affordable and accessible.
Cloud-based cameras also allow you to access your video feed virtually anytime from any place. While IP cameras can also provide this benefit, they require a bit more extensive set up to ensure proper performance and security.
In addition, cloud cameras boast automatic updates, device software improvements, and security vulnerability patching. Maintaining any additional hardware and software is no longer a worry.
With these advantages come some disadvantages. Cloud cameras come with monthly fees and limited functionality depending on how much you are willing to pay. And your provider may raise prices at any time, thus you must pay the higher price or purchase a different camera.
Privacy concerns and security risks are another factor, as your video feed is available on an external server. Also, because your cloud camera will be constantly sending data over the internet, it can slow down connection for other internet activities. For those in areas with slow service or data caps, cloud cameras may not be a feasible option.
The important thing to remember is that there are numerous security cameras with different features on the market. You should evaluate your needs and research different types of cameras to determine which type is right for you. If you need some help or have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 888-203-6294. You can also browse our selection of top quality security cameras at cost-effective prices online at SecurityCamExpert.com. 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.
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.
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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.
Avoid These Surveillance Mistakes
Installing a home surveillance system can be rewarding, providing you a sense of security and peace of mind. However, the process of choosing, installing and using the right cameras is a delicate task. It’s important to evaluate your needs, understand what features will help you accomplish your goals, and execute installation and use correctly. Avoid errors in the process by reviewing these common security camera mistakes.
- Mistake: Forgetting to secure indoor and outdoor surveillance cameras.
If you fail to secure your surveillance cameras, they can be susceptible to tampering and vandalism. To keep your equipment safe, install your cameras at least 9 feet above the ground. You may also want to consider investing in vandal proof and weather proof housing, especially for outdoor cameras. - Mistake: Thinking cameras are able to multitask.
They cannot. When you are installing your security cameras, you must think of the task you want your camera to perform and where to place it. Prepare a diagram for your home security system so you can plan out camera placement. This will also allow you to figure out how many and what type of cameras you need for optimum security. - Mistake: Placing cameras at the highest point.
While this tactic will give you a larger view, you will not a get a detailed look at any person’s features, making it impossible to identify potential criminals. You may want to try a PTZ (pan/tilt/zoom) security camera which allows you to view large areas while enabling zoom for a more detailed look without compromising quality. - Mistake: Using cameras without Wide Dynamic Range at doorways and windows.
Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) plays a big role when part of an image is extremely dark but another part is bright. Since lighting conditions indoors and outdoors can vary drastically, this feature is especially essentials for cameras near windows and doorways. - Mistake: Failing to provide enough lighting.
If you require night time monitoring, you should invest in night vision security cameras. However, if your camera does not have night vision, be sure to provide enough lighting so that your cameras can record clear footage. Remember, putting cameras too close to bright lights will cause the picture to be disrupted. Also, if an outdoor camera is pointing to direct sunlight, this will cause stripes in the images.
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SecurityCamExpert.com offers quality surveillance equipment along with expert installation! Visit us online to browse our stock or call 888-203-6294 to request a FREE quote or schedule a site survey.
Should You Install Indoor Security Cameras?
Security cameras offer home and business owners peace of mind by allowing vigilance over properties. As a homeowner, installing an indoor security camera can help you check in on pets or simply watch over your home while you’re away. Although these benefits are appealing, there are a few things to consider before deciding on installing indoor security cameras.
Worries
It’s true that security cameras are meant to put your worries at ease, but at the same time, they can feed your anxiety. Because you can check in on things at any time, you may find yourself obsessively monitoring your feed.
To minimize this, set up a camera with motion detection so that it may alert you when there is activity. If you have pets, you can filter out their activity so that you are not inundated with false alarms.
Hackers
With internet-connected security cameras, you run the risk of hackers gaining access to your camera. This type of attack is much more common with cameras that have little to no built-in security. Luckily, there are ways to combat these risks. First, you should invest in well-know, higher quality security cameras that have better built-in security. Once you have chosen a camera, change any default logins and use strong, hard-to guess passwords. Also, be sure that your home Wi-Fi network is also highly protected.
Pets
As previously mentioned, indoor security cameras provide an easy way to keep an eye on your pets when you’re away. But when it comes to motion detection, they can easily trigger false alarms. Once you adjust your settings to accommodate pet activity, the security camera can be a great help. Whether you’re missing your pet while you’re away or if you’re working at home, security cameras allow you to see what they are up to.
Valuables
Of course, security cameras are meant to keep you safe from burglars. Their presence alone can help to deter criminal behavior. But in the case that it does not, it can provide useful footage that can be submitted as evidence.
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For a great selection of quality IP and HD security cameras for your home or business, please visit SecurityCamExpert.com or call 888-203-6294 today!
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.
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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.
Workplace Surveillance
Some may argue that video surveillance in the workplace can be an invasion of privacy. However, as long as employee privacy is respected and existing surveillance laws are abided by, it can actually benefit both the employer and employees. Aside from decreasing misconduct and increasing safety, workplace surveillance has its advantages.
- Reduce Risk Of Employee Theft & Fraud
Employee theft, also known as “shrinkage,” is a growing problem for businesses. It is a bigger threat than identity theft and cyber fraud according to the FBI. In addition, fraud by employees is still a major issue, mainly for businesses in the financial and retail sector.
Video surveillance systems work to combat these issues, providing a way to keep a watchful eye over employees while producing video evidence when necessary.
- Improve Operations & Productivity
Businesses thrive on success and profits, therefore, anything that can increase productivity and improve operations is good thing. Installing security cameras in the workplace influences employees to stay on task, thus, plays a role in productivity and efficiency.
- Ward Off Illegal Visitors
Security cameras not only safeguard the business, but work to keep employees safe and protected. An effective surveillance system will help deter intruders and provide video evidence should a break-in or other incident occur. Security cameras can also monitor the different visitors your business has throughout the day.
- Enhance Safety
Workplace safety is expected and non-negotiable. All employees should feel safe in the workplace and security cameras can enhance that feeling. When safety measures are blatantly disregarded, management can review these instances and deal with them accordingly to prevent any unnecessary accidents in the future.
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Whether you’re looking for a surveillance system for your home or business, let us help you! Visit SecurityCamExpert.com or call us at 888-203-6294 for more information or to request a FREE quote!