A Security Camera also known as Closed-circuit television (CCTV) can produce images or recordings for surveillance purposes. The output can be viewed on a TV or a PC Monitor.

Typical Security Camera

Security cameras are generally used for surveillance in areas that may need monitoring such as banks, casinos, airports, military installations, and convenience stores. These cameras may function constantly or only when it is required to supervise a particular event.

The first surveillance camera was installed by Siemens AG at Test Stand VII in Peenemunde, Germany in 1942, for observing the launch of V-2 rockets.

In an effort to fight crime, the first video security camera in the USA, was installed in the main street of Olean, New York in September 1968. Since then, security cameras have been used extensively to record evidence of criminal activity and thereby discouraging theft and robbery.

A variety of wired, wireless, water proof, heat resistant, large and miniature cameras can be found. All these cameras are designed for a specific purpose. Large-wired Cameras are used in commercial places where people know that they are under surveillance whereas small wireless cameras are generally used for more covert surveillance.

Security Camera Control Software

Many shop keepers use non-functional fake security cameras whose main intention is to fool people that a surveillance device is installed and they are being monitored. Dummy security cameras are used to prevent minor thievery and sabotage. These fake home security cameras may also have flashing lights to make them look real. Its hard for a normal person to identify fake security cameras.

The use of security cameras in the United States is increasing dramatically. In 1998 3,000 CCTV systems were found in New York City. There are 2,200 CCTV systems in Chicago

Criminals also use surveillance cameras for their covert operations, for example they may place a tiny camouflaged camera near the keypad of an ATM machine to capture people’s PINs without their knowledge. Images are generally transmitted wirelessly.

Example of a Hidden Camera Camouflaged as a Screw

Increased use of security camera surveillance has created a negative impact on humans as some feel that it has caused a loss of privacy as every move of a person is being monitored everywhere they go. They feel that it is more of a social control measure rather than simply crime prevention measure. One more threat to privacy of a person is that some may have illegal access to archive of recordings and some public surveillance videos have ended up on the Internet.

One major area of public concern is where security cameras are installed and operational in private and public areas, without their operation being publicized. Such places include hotel rooms, and even toilets!

People who believe that security cameras violate and intrude their privacy often obliterate these devices by using various methods. One of the methods is by temporarily neutralizing camera sensors hence not being captured in the recording.

This category is packed with handbooks that would show you various methods that will forbid the security cameras from thwarting your privacy. Here you will be endowed with specialized information on ways to locate and destroy hidden spy cameras and much more!