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Surveillance Systems

Protect Your Surveillance System

Installing a surveillance system in your home or business can provide you with a sense of security. However, if you do not properly secure your system, cyber criminals can gain access to your video feeds.

Aside from an unnerving invasion of privacy, unauthorized access to your surveillance video can help criminals study the area, identify where important property is located, figure out traffic patterns, sabotage systems, deny access to feeds, and much more.

Because IP security camera systems connect to LAN networks, extra precautions are necessary to safeguard your system from attacks. Breaches are usually due to human error, negligence, and misconfigurations, and can often be prevented. The following are common vulnerabilities and ways to protect your surveillance system.

Weak Passwords
Default usernames and passwords are common with most IP based security cameras. They are used to set up your system and accounts for remote access. Too often, people fail to change these passwords, or choose simple passwords, making it easy for strangers to access feeds.

Be sure to set strong passwords, use good password management or user certificates in lieu of passwords. You may want to consider changing your password periodically as well.

Poor Deployment
Avoid enabling unused services as it can leave your system vulnerable to attacks. For example, cyber criminals could install malicious applications and scripts using file transfer protocol (FTP) or an app platform from an untrusted developer.

Minimize your risk by disabling any unused services and installing only trusted apps.

Unclear Roles
Sometimes organizations fail to define who has access to different aspects of the surveillance system, possibly leading to confusion and employees with unnecessary access. For example, it may be unclear as to who is responsible for reviewing security measures to ensure proper protocol is being followed.

For IT departments, it is recommended to only allow users access to the resources they need to perform their job.

Software Bugs
Bugs and flaws in software codes can put your devices at risk. Luckily, you can do your part to prevent this.

Always keep your cameras, equipment, and software up-to-date with the latest firmware to ensure that bugs will not pose a threat. Vendors often post public common vulnerabilities and exposure reports which provide solutions for users.

Physical Installation Problems
Whether it is your cameras, wiring, or other infrastructure, poor installation can leave your system at risk.

Cameras should be installed out of reach to avoid any possible tampering or vandalism, but at a proper angle to view people and objects clearly.

Poor Physical Protection Of Equipment (Cabling, Servers, Gear)
If your cabling, server, or other surveillance equipment is not properly protected, your system is at risk for poor, intermittent performance. A small kink or damage to a cable can interfere with signal, causing disruption in your feed or even power failure.

Appropriate housing to protect your equipment from severe weather or extreme heat is available and is recommended for use if you are in an area susceptible to these conditions.

Poor Maintenance
Routine maintenance is ever important to ensure that your system is and will continue to function properly.

A preventative maintenance program should include a checklist of issues to look for in order to avoid small issues that can turn into big problems (ex. damaged/loose cameras and equipment, exposed, loose, or damaged cabling, dirt/moisture on camera lenses). This will allow the owner to become accustomed to the system and more aware when something seems different or wrong (ex. possible signs of tampering).

Flaws In Standard Network Protocols
Most network surveillance systems use standard network protocols (ex. FTP, TCP/IP), however, weaknesses or flaws in these protocols can expose surveillance data to attacks.

For video streams sent over the network, the latest advanced encryption methods should be used.

Failure To Align Hardware/Software On The Network With IT Policy
If your hardware or software does not meet your IT organization’s network security policy, there will be security issues. For example, third-party software or apps are often poorly supported or lack security patches which make them vulnerable to security breaches. Thus, your IT department will not be happy.

Enforcing a strong IT policy is imperative for any business.

How do you protect your surveillance system from cyber and physical attacks? Share your best tips with your peers on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest!

Find a great selection of security cameras including IP surveillance cameras, CCTV security camera packages, and more at SecurityCamExpert.com. For more information, please call 1-888-203-6294.

Security Cameras: What You Need To Know

Security cameras are a great way to keep an eye on your property or business. You can use them to look after your loved ones, protect your inventory, or deter intruders all together. As appealing as security camera systems are, it is wise to know and understand your local surveillance laws.

Before you invest in your own security cameras, please review these general guidelines. Remember, these are not meant to apply to your specific situation. Instead, they are meant to give you a general idea of what is and is not allowed. If you have any further questions regarding filming restrictions and such, please contact a local attorney or research laws within your city and state.

Filming
Camera placement is important because you want to capture high traffic areas, such as entrances and back doors. If you direct your camera at an insignificant area, you will waste time and money while defeating the purpose of your security system.

Placement is also important because there are areas that are off limits, including restrooms, other people’s homes, dressing rooms and locker rooms. Basically anywhere that there is an expectation of privacy, or you are likely to be in a state of undress, is off limits.

If you are unsure whether or not you are violating someone’s right to privacy, err on the side of caution and always consult a lawyer.

Loopholes

  • Private Rooms

If you own a retail business, you may worry that customers might be committing crimes in blind spots such as dressing rooms, locker rooms, or restrooms. While legally you cannot monitor these areas, you can monitor the entrances/exits. Be sure that when the door opens, your camera does not get any glimpse of what’s behind that door, otherwise you could get into trouble. If a person goes into a restroom or dressing room with some inventory, and then exits without it that is a suggestion of a crime.

  • Neighbors

Areas that are viewable to the public are generally legal to film. This is how Google is able to provide the 360-degree street view for Google Maps. However, it is ill-advised to point your security cameras at your neighbor’s home. Whatever situation that warranted your desire or need to film your neighbor’s home could become escalated. Whether you are the one filming or the one being filmed, you may want to first speak with your neighbor about camera placement.

Audio
With audio recording, Federal Law only requires one person to know about the recording taking place. State laws will provide different regulations. Remember that federal law creates a baseline for laws. That is, state laws cannot allow for any less than one informed party.

Audio is not allowed to be obtained through eavesdropping or remote recording. Because at least one of the parties must know of the recording, you are not permitted to record conversations you are not a part of since you do not count as one of the parties. Even if the conversation is taking place in a public area, the parties can still expect privacy which protects them from eavesdroppers. In the same vein, you cannot leave your unattended recorder somewhere and use the recordings as evidence.

Loopholes
The easiest way to get around audio recording rules is to make the party aware that they are being recorded. For example, often times when you call a customer service line, you will likely hear, “This call may be recorded…” Continuing the conversation after this notification is usually viewed as consent. Thus, once you have informed someone that a room is being monitored by audio surveillance, they have the choice to continue their conversation in that room or move the discussion to a different room.

You may also record a person so long as you don’t intend on using the recording for illegal acts. Because one party is aware of the recording, the act of recording is not illegal. However, if your recording contains private information that is covered by the common law privacy, you may get into some hot water. The private information could be things like medical history (ex. miscarriage, abortion) so be sure to understand what is and is not covered.

The Constitution & Surveillance
The Fourth Amendment protects citizens from “…unreasonable searches and seizures…” and details the rights of privacy. While you may think that some public security cameras would count as unreasonable, the case of Delaware v. Prouse will tell you otherwise. In this case, the Supreme Court stated that “people are not shorn of all Fourth Amendment protection when they step from their homes onto the public sidewalks”.

As far as the First Amendment goes, there has not been any critique on a camera’s existence suppressing behavior. In fact, in the Laird v. Tatum case, the court found that government surveillance of anti-war protesters did not hinder their freedom of expression. This can help security camera owners when there are accusations of civil liberty violations.

Recording Police
The First Amendment also gives you the right to document civil servants as they are performing their civic duties. The recordings are simply viewed as a way of exercising your rights. Officers may ask you to stop recording and ask for the evidence, however, you do not have to submit to their requests unless they have a warrant for your property.

The only instance in which you may be violating the law is if you are interfering with an investigation. This is often used to remove reporters from a crime scene, but your personal security camera should not interfere with the investigation. In fact, your video surveillance may be of use for the investigation.

Dual Consent
If you ever wondered why most security cameras do not have microphones, it is because, in some cases, you may need dual consent to record audio. Violating dual consent is a felony. Your best bet is to get consent to be taped before recording, and then again as the first order of business when the recording begins. Off tape and on record consent will cover your bases if you are sued for violating wiretap laws. And although it is deemed “dual consent”, you must get the express consent of everyone being recorded.

The following states may have variations on the law and should be further researched: California, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Washington.

Recording Employees
The employer must have a legitimate reason for recording. The off limits areas include restrooms, locker rooms, and dressing rooms. There may also be restrictions in the break room. Again, you cannot record any place in which a person should expect privacy. However, anywhere that an employee interacts with a customer can be monitored. For example, the sales floor is fair game, but a personal office may not be. You will need to use your best judgment or consult an attorney. Disclosing the use of surveillance equipment to your workers will cover your bases for any illegal wiretapping issues.

The biggest restriction for recording employees is in regards to unions. An employer may not record union activities such as meetings or even discussions about union business. And surveillance cannot be used to intimidate current or prospective members of the union.

Evidence for Trial
When you submit any type of recording to a court of law, the evidence is put on trial. The validity and handling of this evidence is then scrutinized. You, as the recorder, must prove that the evidence was in no way doctored. You must go through the steps of how the footage was obtained (ex. how the video was recorded, where the camera was located, the quality of the camera at different times of day, how it was stored, etc.), and verify the whereabouts of the evidence as it was transported to court. When the footage is not in court, it must be securely stored. The integrity of your recording may be compromised if there is any data loss due to a power surge or data dump.

With this information, you should be able to make informed decisions when it comes to your security camera system. If you have any tips to share, please connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.

For a great selection of quality security cameras, full CCTV surveillance packages, and more, please visit us online at SecurityCamExpert.com. To learn more about our installation and services, or to schedule a site survey, please call 1-888-203-6294.

Security Flaws Of Smart Home Systems

Smart homes allow you to connect different aspects of your home, including things like appliances, alarms, and sensors. Most find this concept alluring since you can control your appliances and home security remotely, allowing you peace of mind whether you are at home or away.

With the convenience provided by these smart home systems comes considerable risk. Some devices, while acting as a helpful tool, could end up hurting you if access to your system fell into the wrong hands.

In hopes to identify potential security risks and call attention to producers of smart home systems and devices, a team made up of Earlence Fernandes, Jaeyeon Jung, and Atul Prakash joined forces to look at different systems. The systems under study were those that were larger and more popular with consumers. They looked at common features, how devices interacted with each other, which third-party apps were supported, and most importantly, security features, among other aspects.

From this study, two major flaws were found:

Privileges
Akin to your smartphone asking for permission to access certain things on your phone, certain smart home devices and apps can access different functions with your permission. The problem therein lies in how these functions are grouped together.

For example, if an app can automatically lock a door after 9pm, it likely has the privilege to unlock it, although that function is not necessary. The app developer cannot ask for permission to lock a door without the ability to unlock it.

Most apps have access to more functions than they need, putting your security at risk.

Messaging
Because devices and apps can communicate through messaging (think instant messenger), sensitive data sent through this system can be vulnerable. For example, a door lock’s PIN code may be sent in a message. Since these messages are not entirely secure, any software that has the most basic access to your device can receive all the messages that the device generates or receives.

Other apps can also “impersonate” smart home equipment, in that, they can send messages that look like messages sent from real smart home devices. The phony app could possibly read and steal the network’s ID and then create a message.

Testing The Flaws
The team of researchers then created four different attacks to show how attackers could use the aforementioned flaws to their advantage.

For the first attack, they created an app that’s purpose was to simply monitor battery levels of various wireless devices around the home. However, after a user downloads the app, it can be reprogrammed to monitor other messages sent by those devices.

In the second attack, they were able to listen to the supposedly secure messages between an app and its companion mobile device. The team was able to impersonate the mobile device and send commands to the app, such as creating a new PIN which would give an attacker access to your home.

The third and fourth attacks involved disabling and enabling different functions. For example, a custom app could disable “vacation mode,” which allows the system to turn lights on and off to make the home seem as if it is occupied. Another app was able to falsely trigger a fire alarm by acting as a carbon monoxide monitor.

Security Improvements
Just because smart home systems currently have security flaws does not mean these systems and the Internet of Things do not have great potential. As of now, if you are considering adopting a smart home system, much like anything else, proceed with caution. You might want to think twice about giving third party apps access to your devices, and do some research on the security of the system you choose.

As security and technology improves with these systems, the Internet of Things and smart home systems will likely see much wider adoption. This could eventually lead to better quality of living.

Have you considered adopting a smart home system now or in the future? Do you currently employ any smart home devices? Share your thoughts and experiences with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, or Pinterest.

For an excellent selection of security cameras, CCTV surveillance packages, security equipment, and more, please visit SecurityCamExpert.com. If you have any questions, please call 1-888-203-6294.

Home Security System Shopping Tips

More and more people are turning to security systems to protect their homes. This is a smart decision, as security cameras will help you feel at ease whether you are in your home or on vacation. Unfortunately, when shopping for a security system, you may find that there are companies that seem genuine, but do not have the customer’s best interest at heart.

If you are thinking of investing in a home security system, here are some helpful tips to make sure you get the best deal on what you are looking for.

  • Choose a reputable business.

Consider your budget and what features are absolutely necessary and which you could live without. Credible businesses will work with you to build a home security system to suit your wants, needs and budget. You can ask for input or recommendations from friends, family, or even your home or renters insurance carrier.

  • Shop around.

Contact at least three companies before making a decision. This way you can compare prices and service, and ask important questions (ex. proper licensing, background checks for employees). This will also give you time to check reviews or do additional research before committing to a company.

  • Ask about charges upfront.

If you have a budget, see what companies can offer for that price. Or you can compare prices from different businesses on a similar system. When getting quotes and prices, be sure ask about any other fees that may apply, for example, monthly monitoring fees or installation charges. It is also wise to consult with your insurance agent since home security systems may qualify you for a discount on homeowner’s premiums.

  • Understand your contract.

As with any contract, be sure that you fully understand it before signing. Know how long it will last, what it covers, terminations fees, etc. If your system is going to be monitored, those contracts typically last 2-5 years. Before you sign on to a long term contract, be sure to ask the major, important questions. For example, what happens if you are dissatisfied with the services provided? Is it possible to cancel the contract? As the consumer, what are your rights if the company is acquired by another company?

When shopping around, keep an eye out for these red flags:

  • High pressure sales tactics.

Often times, trustworthy companies will give you time to think through the deal and make your decision. But if a seller is trying to pressure you into going with their company, don’t give in until you have done the proper research.

  • Too good to be true.

While some companies offer competitive prices, others may offer unbelievable deals that seem too good to be true. Most of the time, they are. In this case, “you get what you pay for” rings true. Whether it is defective equipment or a poor installation job, this is something to keep in mind when making your final decision.

  • Lack of company identification.

If you cannot get a positive identification for your salesperson or the company, you may want to question using their services. Also, beware of sellers with no ties to their community. This could mean they might pull a disappearing act after mediocre services have been rendered and payments have been made.

  • Poor ratings on the BBB.

It is always wise to check with the Better Business Bureau for any complaints or reviews about the company. If there have been complaints, you can see how the company handled the situation, giving you a better idea of the customer service you can expect.

Do you have any other shopping tips? Share them with us on Facebook, Google+, and Twitter. You can also find us on Pinterest and Vine.

Visit SecurityCamExpert.com to browse great deals on our quality stock of security cameras, CCTV surveillance packages, and more. Call 1-888-203-6294 to learn more about our equipment and services.

The Importance Of Video Surveillance Storage

The presence of security cameras often deters people from behaving badly and provides evidence if and when a crime occurs. Most businesses employ video surveillance for loss prevention purposes. However, as surveillance technologies get smarter, video surveillance can play a larger role.

Surveillance data can provide a wealth of information for different industries. For example, in retail, not only do security cameras help loss prevention, but surveillance footage can hold the key to increase sales and improve the shopping experience. Video surveillance data can replace “mystery shoppers” as a more effective avenue of collecting consumer data. For the transportation and shipping industry, surveillance analytics combined with RFID tags can help track cargo, lower operational costs and improve traffic flow.

To achieve such excellent benefits, businesses must seriously consider an effective storage solution. In order to get substantial results, studies must evaluate data over long periods of time, forcing business to get smarter about video surveillance data storage. When choosing the appropriate storage method, the main components to consider are performance, access, and cost.

Because high quality equipment can be costly, considering proper surveillance storage often goes by the wayside. This should not be the case if business analytics are your focus. For an effective system, your means for storage must be able to handle high traffic and high bandwidth without dropping data. If your cameras have high definition, the bandwidth load will only increase from there. For effective performance, your storage should be able to upload, process, and allow access as quickly as possible.

While you need a strong performing system, you must balance your cost. You can spend your entire budget on a storage system that can perform appropriately, but may lack functional organizational. On the other hand, you can cut costs by implementing more affordable means of storage, but again, organizing and accessing this data can become a nightmare.

Your best bet when it comes to storage would be to employ a high-performance, tiered-storage infrastructure that can be managed as a single system. A tiered structure allows data to be stored as a cost-effective medium. The files will be stored based on user defined policies, allowing you to be in total control of your data. Costs are lowered and data is analyzed more effectively.

Business analytics of surveillance data can afford your business with a multitude of benefits. But you can only capitalize on these benefits with an effective storage system. Pay close attention to your options and evaluate your needs before making a final decision.

Are you considering or currently implementing business analytics to your surveillance data? Share your experiences with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Want to estimate how much storage you will need for you system? Looking for affordable security cameras and equipment? Visit us online at SecurityCamExpert.com or give us a call at 1-888-203-6294.

Security Camera System Features

Over the years, home security has changed for the better. While some home security systems may still require you to set the alarm from the control panel mounted on your wall, and then rush out of your home in a set amount of time, others offer remote control features that make it much easier to secure your home.

Instead of worrying if you remembered to turn on the alarm or not, newer systems allow you to remotely access your security system from your mobile device. Enable or disable the alarm as necessary, keep an eye on what’s going on while you’re away, or even adjust the lights or temperature within your home.

If you’re looking to upgrade your old system, or looking for a new system all together, here are a few features that you will want your system to have.

Remote Monitoring & Control

Remote access to your system, these days, is ever important. As previously mentioned, support for remote monitoring and control can afford you extreme versatility and put your worries at ease. A way to help you choose a system is to search the App Store for the system you are interested in. Check the ratings and reviews as this will help give insight to how reliable the system is and how others are enjoying it.

Wireless Cellular Connection

Traditional security systems relied on phone lines which left your system vulnerable because these lines could easily be cut from the outside. Your best bet is to go with a wireless system, as systems with a cable connection are susceptible to the same vulnerability. The newest systems use a wireless cellular connection that is strictly dedicated to your security system for the best performance. There is no interference from other services, and maintains signal and power when Wi-Fi is down or in cases of power outages.

Alerts & Notifications

Remote support also allows you to receive alerts. You can monitor when your kids return home from school, if unusual activity is detected/recorded, or even if you forgot to close the garage on the way to work. Whether your system is armed or not doesn’t matter, these notifications are always on.

Connected Home

Connected devices help to enhance the safety and security of your home and loved ones. Devices like smoke alarms, CO sensors, and water sensors may connect to your system and warn you about impending emergencies such as a carbon monoxide leak or flood due to a cracked water pipe.

As you can see, there are many benefits to implementing a home security system. Secure your property and protect your loved ones with the proper security and surveillance equipment. Visit SecurityCamExpert.com to browse our selection of security cameras, CCTV packages, wireless home alarm units, and much more. You may also contact us at 1-888-203-6294 with any questions, or connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.

How To Install The Uniden UDR444 Video Surveillance System

The Uniden UDR444 Video Surveillance System is ideal for home security. Included in the system are 2 weatherproof cameras, along with a 4.3 inch LCD monitor, which also acts as a control panel for your system. Installation is a breeze and can be done with some simple tools. For your convenience, we’ve broken down the steps for you.

Before installing your wireless security cameras, you want to think about the best placement for them. Remember that the clear line of sight video transmission distance is 500 ft. Walls, especially brick and concrete, can interfere and shorten the transmission distance, whereas placement near windows allows for better transmission. You will also want to avoid having direct light sources in the view of your cameras. These direct light sources include street lights, floor or ceiling lamps, etc.

Because these cameras are equipped with built-in infra-red LEDs, you will also want to avoid pointing your camera lenses directly at clear glass as it will cause a blurred image. The LEDs allow for night vision, which enables 24-hour surveillance. These LEDs are activated automatically. Once activated, recordings then switch to black and white. Another thing to keep in mind is that the night viewing range is 40 ft.

The optimized motion detection range is also 40 ft. You should avoid pointing the cameras at bushes, tree branches, or objects that may naturally move due to winds, as these may falsely trigger the motion detection sensor.

The system will alert you with an “Out Of Range” display message if the camera and monitor are too far apart, as well as a Low Battery icon when recharging the battery is necessary.

When installing the cameras, you may want to bring the monitor along to ensure that your camera is in the right position. Out of the box, your monitor should have enough power to last during installation.

The placement of your camera will dictate where the stand should be placed. Mount your camera with the stand:

  • on the bottom if you are placing it on a flat surface, such as a tabletop
  • on the side if you are placing it on a wall
  • on the top it if you are installing it on the ceiling

To mount the camera base, you will need an electric drill, a 5mm drill bit, and a No.2 Phillips screwdriver. Start by holding the base in place where you want to mount it and mark the screw holes. Next, use the 5mm drill bit to drill holes. Then insert the anchors and use the included screws to attach the base to the wall or ceiling. You may also attach the base to a flat surface, like a tabletop, if desired. Before attaching the camera, gently tug at the base to make sure that it is securely in place.

Next, attach the camera bracket to the mounting screw. You can attach the stand to the top or the bottom of the camera as needed. Tighten it with a few turns and then adjust the camera to face the direction that you desire to monitor. Tighten the camera brace up against the camera to secure it into place. Lastly, attach the antenna to the back of the camera. Repeat these steps to install the second camera.

To power up the cameras, connect one end of an AC adapter to the camera’s power pigtail. Use the other end of the AC adapter to plug into a 120 volt AC power outlet, which is usually a standard indoor outlet.

After you install your cameras, you may power up the monitor by pressing and holding the power button on the left side of the monitor for 1-2 seconds. You should see the Uniden title screen and then the live view from your cameras. If necessary, you may adjust the camera position to suit your viewing needs.

Now you have successfully installed your Uniden UDR444 Video Surveillance System. If you have any questions regarding these steps, please contact us. Call 1-888-203-6294 or visit us online at SecurityCamExpert.com. You can also connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Achieve Great Convenience And Versatility With Remote Surveillance

A great way to keep your property safe is by installing a security camera system. These security cameras will capture any suspicious behavior that happens in or around your property, as well as deter burglars from targeting your home or business.

A key component to a successful security camera system is the actual monitoring of the surveillance feed. While some businesses review surveillance footage as necessary, others employ a security guard to monitor multiple feeds and watch for any misbehavior. However, the former is a more reactive than proactive practice, while the latter is susceptible to human error. Because watching a video screen can get boring, a security guard may miss something important that warrants a follow up.

Luckily, newer security camera systems are often compatible with mobile apps that allow you to access your live surveillance feed from your mobile phone or smart devices. Paired with sharp technology that provides alerts when suspicious activity is detected, remote monitoring becomes the ultimate convenience.

No Need To Be Physically On Site

With remote monitoring, you can check on your property or business while you’re away. You also no longer need an employee to monitor live feeds, eliminating added costs and human error.

Automated Alerts

Smart technologies will actively monitoring for suspicious activity. When this is detected, alerts are immediately sent out so that the appropriate actions can be taken.

Quick Response Times

Because alerts are in real time, you can check the feed to see what is going on and alert authorities as necessary. The recorded footage also provides hard evidence of any criminal acts or wrong-doings.

Increased Workplace Efficiency

Aside from protecting your assets and employees, your security camera system can encourage your employees to be on their best behavior. This surveillance also helps to identify and evaluate dangerous practices to improve workplace safety.

Do you use a security system with remote monitoring? How has it helped your security system? Share your experiences with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.

For great security camera packages and systems with remote surveillance, shop our selection online at SecurityCamExpert.com. Questions? Call us at 1-888-203-6294 and our knowledgeable staff will happily assist you.

Police Surveillance Devices Help Keep The Community Safe

Safety, on all levels, is a major concern. With recent events across the world, now more than ever do we need increased security measures. We should become more vigilant to protect ourselves from possible threats or danger. As our technology continues to improve, law enforcement agencies are taking advantage and utilizing these security devices to keep the people safe.

With advanced license plate readers, high definition security cameras, drones and wide area surveillance, officers are able to do their jobs more efficiently. These devices allow them to better identify and apprehend criminals, resulting in safer communities.

License Plate Readers

License plate readers are often mounted on police cars, allowing officers to monitor drivers for safety. Because these license plate readers are more advanced than before, they can parse through the many plates that zoom by and cross reference them to a criminal database. It makes it easier to find wanted suspects, stolen vehicles, aids in amber alerts, and more. By enabling our officers to capture these criminals, we work toward building safe streets and communities.

High Definition (Facial Recognition)

Security cameras with high definition are becoming more common, and some are even equipped with facial recognition technology. This is obviously helpful in the sense that suspects can be more easily identified when attempting to elude law enforcement. These cameras can also pick up on suspicious activities and alert law enforcement accordingly. For our safety, it is better to be proactive than reactive.

Drones & Wide Area Surveillance

Drones have gained popularity in the commercial arena, however, they can serve an extremely beneficial purpose for security and law enforcement. Much like helicopters can offer an aerial view, drones work the same way, but because of their small size and advanced features, they can better track a suspect, making it harder for him or her to evade police. Wide-area surveillance offers a bigger picture, recording all movement within a given area for hours. When crimes are reported, footage can be reviewed to verify details and stories.

As these devices start to become more widely used in law enforcement, do you think crimes rates will begin to noticeably decline? We would love to hear from you. Share your thoughts with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.

SecurityCamExpert.com values your safety and security. That’s why when you shop with us, you can count on high quality security cameras and equipment. Shop our stock online or order over the phone at 1-888-203-6294. Our friendly staff is always happy to assist you.

Surveillance Drones Act As Activity Trackers

Utilizing a surveillance system demonstrates the ability to aid in suspect identification to help solve crimes. Technological advances have expanded these systems to overhead monitoring via aircrafts, similar to drones. Persistent Surveillance Systems (PSS) has created a manned aircraft equipped with several cameras to record ground activity over a 25 sq mile (64.7 sq km) area.

The PSS aircraft is houses 12 high-resolution cameras which work together to create one wide range view to be transmitted to analysts below. Persons in question are able to be tracked, but cannot be clearly identified from these cameras.

Instead, tracking a person’s movement is the goal. These aircrafts were tested in different areas. For nine days in early 2012, the PSS aircraft was used in Compton, CA. During this time, the PSS surveillance footage captured various crimes. The suspect’s movement before and after the occurrence were recorded. Access to this information, in conjunction with firsthand testimony, helps to create accurate timelines.

This information can offer some insight on details of the crime, possible accomplices, whether it was premeditated or not, and more. By having an aerial view and being able to accurately track persons, we can more quickly and effectively locate those evading police. We can save time, money, and manpower as the PSS aircraft can do the work in the sky. These surveillance aircrafts could be vital in capturing and punishing suspects, thus restoring the safety and security of our neighborhoods.

Do you think your local police department should adopt this type of technology to help prevent crimes? Please share your thoughts with us on our social media sites. You can find us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.

For your surveillance and security camera needs, choose SecurityCamExpert.com. High quality, affordable prices, and excellent customer service can’t be beat. Browse online or call us at 1-888-203-6294. Our offices are open Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm.

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