The Truth About Hidden Cameras
Who Needs a Hidden Camera?
Certain individuals may benefit more from home security devices than others. Keep in mind that most hidden cameras work inside the home, so they won't necessarily help prevent a burglary. Here's a list of some of the individuals who should consider installing hidden cameras:- People who are renting a home or apartment. While property managers cannot install hidden cameras without violating laws, the tenant can. With a rental property, you never know how many people might have a key to the place. The property manager will usually have one, and if the company failed to replace the locks, the previous renters may still have keys. When you file a repair request, the property manager may lend the key to service professionals.
- People who use in-home services. Is your house cleaner snooping through your drawers? Is the dog walker actually coming by at the scheduled time? In-home services are only valuable when you can trust the person doing the work.
- People who have babysitters. Sexual and physical abuses are extreme violations of trust; however, your childcare provider may be engaging in less extreme activities that put your child at risk. For example, the babysitter could be talking on the phone rather than monitoring your child. While this may not seem like a major problem, it could be, especially if you have a pool in the backyard. Some nannies will invite friends over to your house, which could lead to other problems.
- People who own businesses. Home security devices work well in businesses, and they may be what allows you to catch employee theft. Statistically, 66 percent of your employees will steal from you if they believe they can do so without getting caught, according to Michael G. Kessler & Associates, an accounting firm specializing in investigative and forensic accounting. Another 13 percent will steal regardless of whether you can catch them. Overall, employees will steal more from your company than shoplifters.
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Who Can Use a Nanny Cam?
Anyone can use a spy camera, as long as the usage doesn't violate any laws. The laws governing hidden cameras vary from one state to the next; however, most states will allow you to use a hidden camera in your own home.Typically, you cannot use a hidden camera that will violate an area where a person should expect privacy. That's why department stores can't have security cameras in dressing rooms. Likewise, you may not be able to position your camera so it records anywhere your neighbor expects privacy. For help with installation, hire a home security company.
What Types of Hidden Cameras Are Available?
A hidden camera is only as effective as its disguise. After all, 87 percent of people will behave if they know you are recording them. You can find wired or wireless security cameras to use, and you may find it necessary to use a combination of hidden security devices, such as the following options.- Decorative Hidden Cameras – These security devices blend into your home. From mantle clocks to books, you can place nanny cameras in every room of your house without giving away their location or purpose. You can even find cameras in stuffed animals, such as teddy cams.
- DVR Hidden Cameras – Some hidden cameras need a separate recording device, but not DVR cameras. These cameras have the recording device built-in, making them a plug-in-and-spy option. Most mimic popular electronic devices, such as alarm clocks or iPod docking stations.
- Body-worn Devices – This type of hidden security camera seems more appropriate for spies than regular homeowners, but it can come in handy for certain situations. Does your child have to walk from your home to the babysitters? Give him a hidden cam that looks like an MP3 player.