Who Uses Surveillance These Days

The usage of video surveillance systems have increased dramatically over the last 10 years. Many private home owners and small business operators have incorporated video surveillance in their security systems to catch criminal activities or just maintain the upkeep of their home or business respectfully. Video surveillance is called covert when it is hidden or obscure from public view. Video surveillance is legal within the United States as long as it does not infringe upon the 4th Amendment, which is the right to privacy. For example, it is illegal to put hidden cameras inside of public restroom stalls.

The old cliche, "a picture is worth a thousand words" is perhaps the best slogan for hidden cameras. From a lawful standpoint, when a jury is presented with video evidence against someone who committed any criminal act, it is much more likely to convict that person or persons. Strategic placement of said hidden cameras have aided in cases against people for vandalism, theft, child abuse, harassment, disorderly conduct, domestic disturbances, and stalking cases.

The most common places to find these cameras are in private homes, casinos, police stations, stores, prisons, clinics, and construction sites. The monitoring of nannies and other household help, such as gardeners, maids, and kitchen workers, is becoming increasingly more popular. Because of technological advances cameras are now small enough to fit into everyday items such as clocks, teddy bears, wall paintings, pictures, and house plants. For example, a picture frame can be purchased with a small camera imbedded within the wood and can be used to watch sitters or perhaps priceless family heirlooms.

The majority of video surveillance is legal within the United States. Most video surveillance laws involve the invasion of privacy using hidden cameras. The usage of hidden cameras or covert surveillance systems are prohibited or extremely controversial in places where there is a need for a high level of privacy, such as locker rooms, dressing rooms, bathrooms, or bedrooms. Guidelines are generally a good idea to follow to ensure that none of these laws are infringed upon.

The usage of covert video surveillance is strictly prohibited in areas where audio surveillance is also taking place. If this is done without the consent of the person or persons being monitored then legal action may be taken. Covert video surveillance may also be illegal when the surveillance coerces illegal actions out of the participants, as when law enforcement officers are questioning a person and the owner or person in charge do not have permission for video surveillance.

If you decide to utilize a hidden camera or covert surveillance system within your home or business, it is wise to first consult a lawyer about possible law or policy issues that may be violated. It is also a good idea to contact local law enforcement agencies to ensure that no laws are being broken and allow them to note the area that is under surveillance. Many sources of information have noted that video surveillance is a strong tool in the United States and United Kingdom to stop crimes before they happen. These same studies have also taken notice that these systems are great tools in the prosecution and conviction of people committing infractions against said companies or persons.