Hidden Cameras

Learn more about hidden camera solutions

Written by Eric Fleming

Many businesses want customers to know they're being watched at all times. A casino is a good example. It's less work for a casino to install cameras than to deal with each and every criminal that thinks he or she isn't under observation. Visible cameras act as a strong deterrent. But there are good reasons many businesses might want to install a hidden camera in lieu of a visible one.

Why Use a Hidden Camera in a Business Setting?

If visible cameras are so good at stopping thieves, then why would a business owner want to install hidden cameras? Because in many cases, thieves will not steal if they think they're being watched. Examples include employees who steal from the cash register, or a customer who takes three pairs of pants into a dressing room, then stuffs one into a bag and walks out. In either case, a visible camera will stop the thief, but only until the thief feels the camera is no longer looking. In each instance, the stealing continues. With a hidden camera, the criminal feels he or she is free to steal, when in reality every move is caught on camera. Instead of finding new places to steal out of visible camera range, a thief is caught red-handed.

Legal Issues in Using Hidden Cameras

There are, however, legal issues to consider for business owners wanting to install hidden cameras. Unlike visible cameras -- which, if placed in public spaces, are almost always legal -- hidden cameras have come under attack from privacy groups and have in some cases been found to be an invasion of privacy. The safest rule of thumb regarding hidden cameras is whether or not a person could reasonably expect some level of privacy in a certain area. If so, then a hidden camera might be illegal. A back hallway, for instance, is a public space, even if it is rarely used. So a hidden camera would likely be fine if placed there. A bathroom stall, however, is a place where everyone expects privacy; a court would likely find any cameras placed there illegal. Consult a lawyer familiar with local privacy laws, especially any that might pertain to hidden spy cameras, before installation.

Hardwired and Wireless Hidden Cameras

Like most cameras, hidden cameras can be installed in both hardwired and wireless models. A hardwired camera transmits its signal via a cable to either a viewing monitor or recording device. The wireless camera, on the other hand, needs no wires. The advantage of a wireless camera is that it can be placed practically anywhere, and because of its wireless nature, there are no telltale wires to give away its location. Instead, it sends the signal via wireless to a monitoring station, where its video can be viewed and recorded, and would-be thieves apprehended sooner rather than later.

Are you ready to purchase a hidden camera as part of your CCTV setup? Submit a free request for price quotes and get matched to multiple dealers who will try to get you the best deal for your business.

Free Video Surveillance System Price Quotes

Fill out our short form to get free rates for hidden cameras.