Latest news with #securityCameras
CNET
12-06-2025
- CNET
Can You Legally Record Audio or Video on Your Security Camera? I Focus on These Rules
If you're thinking about installing a new security camera in your home, a legal question appears: Is it legal for you to record audio and video anywhere you want in your home? Are there limitations or the possibility of lawsuits from your neighbors? This is something I've thought about a lot as I've tested security cameras in all parts of my home for years. Owners must know when and where it's legal to record everything from their front yard and streets to friends, babysitters, and pet sitters. Breaking privacy laws could lead to fines, lawsuits and other huge headaches. I've gathered all the details below so you'll understand what to avoid and what's safe to do. Let's start with a key rule, the expectation of privacy. Read more: Want Better Home Security? Never Put Your Cameras in These Spots Public vs. private surveillance Common sense about privacy can keep you out of a lot of trouble. Lorex/Amazon First, let's talk about the most important rule when recording video (anywhere). The standard that the courts have widely adopted is called the "reasonable expectation of privacy" and it's very, very important. You can generally set up security cams in your home as you please, but you can't interfere with someone's reasonable expectation of privacy. In practice, that comes down to how people tend to use rooms. Surveilling living rooms, entryways, kitchens or dining rooms is fine because those rooms are more "public" spots used by everyone in the house and are generally highly visible. However, setting up a cam to record video in a bedroom, bathroom or changing room is usually considered illegal without explicit consent, even in your own home. People expect a higher level of privacy in these areas and the law agrees. Minor/dependent limitations also apply: Parents can monitor their baby's bedroom, for example. But when in doubt, apply the rule of a reasonable expectation of privacy. If you do need cams in more private areas, consider disabling them when guests are over. The expectation of privacy is even more important if neighbors are pointing security cameras at you. No one can film you without your permission on private property, like filming your backyard or through your windows. One vs. two-party consent Audio privacy laws are particularly strict if you want to save camera audio conversations. Luis Alvarez via Getty Now let's turn to the big rule in audio recording, which is your local consent laws. Because of the Federal Wiretap Act and similar legislation, states are divided into one-party and two-party/all-party consent laws. In a one-party consent state such as Colorado, Tennessee or Texas, one side of the conversation needs to give consent to be recorded, which makes it legal to record telephone calls you are part of and (in theory) two-way audio conversations you have through a camera. In two-party consent states such as California, Florida or Michigan, both or all sides need to give their consent to have their conservation recorded. It is never legal to record a conversation where no one is giving consent. This consent is usually a verbal affirmation at the beginning of a call or a separate acknowledgement that consent was given. Justia has a guide breaking down the rules by individual state where you can find more information. Four tips to record video in your home Video recording is legal in your home as long as you respect privacy. Lorex/Amazon Let's break down video capture, a primary goal of installing a security camera in your home. Today's cameras use motion detection and frequently have video storage options to automatically save video clips -- both to local storage and the cloud -- when they see people. These steps will help you know what to do. Step 1: Review your state laws Laws about surveillance can vary by state, so if you want to stay safe you need to start by looking up the laws in your own state. State websites, local law firms and others will often summarize these laws for you to save time. Here's a breakdown of California's law as an example. States may have specific laws about hiding security cameras, how you can use security camera recordings in court and if you need permits for specific kinds of security cameras. A few minutes of reading up can give you important parameters to follow. For example, the California law mentioned above has specific language about "intent to invade privacy" and intent to view "the body or undergarments" that can help clarify what's not allowed. Step 2: Follow the 'reasonable expectation of privacy' Don't record video in any area where people expect privacy. Keep recordings focused on common areas such as entryways, porches and primary rooms. Step 3: (For renters) Let the owner know about cameras Property owners broadly have the right to install security cameras on their private property, including inside homes that they own. They don't usually need a permit, either. If you aren't the property owner, the law gets less comfortable with you recording video. When renting, contact the owner of the property if you want to install a security camera and notify them, getting written permission if possible. Sometimes leases will have more specific information on who is in charge of security systems, while other leases have more leeway. Tenants usually have the right to install their own security cameras to watch over the personal space they're legally renting. But letting the owner know can precent future issues. Step 4: Notify guests about cameras, including short-term rentals If you have guests over, hire a nanny or have a friend staying over for a couple of weeks, let them know that you have security cameras, no matter where they are. It's polite and it avoids any chance you could be accused of hiding cameras and recording without consent. Important note: Other regulations can apply in certain circumstances. The best example is Airbnb, which in March 2024 banned all use of indoor security cameras (video doorbells, etc. should still be fine) by Airbnb hosts. Previously, Airbnb had allowed the use of indoor cams in some regions as long as guests were notified. The rules changed -- which is why it's important to look up the details if you aren't sure about the law. Four tips to record audio in your home Apps often offer ways to record or disable audio. Lorex/Amazon Audio recording is a different beast than video recording: It has more legal implications and is traditionally used often as evidence in courts. When audio is involved, people have extra protections. Our rules will help you stay within the bounds of the law. Step 1: Review your state laws (but even closer this time) Find out if your state is a one-party or two-party consent state and check if it has any specific language about recording audio, wiretapping and similar situations. Step 2: Exercise caution if your cam can record audio Camera apps often allow you to record audio -- if you have a Ring Protect plan, for example, you can usually record and download video and audio from a Ring doorbell, then keep it or share it with others. Eufy also gives you the option to record audio when a video is recorded. But recording audio without consent risks crossing an audio law red line, even if it's automatic. It's often up to users to go into apps and disable audio functions for legal safety. Even if a home cam theoretically saved incriminating audio, it might not be usable in court and could lead to countersuits or other problems. Step 3: Get or give consent for any recording If you really want to record audio, find a device that can do it and make sure people are giving consent to be recorded. We suggest getting permission from both sides of a conversation even in one-party consent states, just to stay safe and polite. That's how phone interviews are conducted, for example. Step 4: Avoid false pretenses when recording someone Federal law prohibits recording conversations with criminal or malicious intent and many state laws confirm that with similar wording. Avoid any accidental appearance of blackmail or similar scheming. That includes any effort to try to trick someone into having a certain conversation or saying certain words, or pretending to be someone you aren't while talking to another person. What about outdoor security cameras? Privacy laws apply to outdoor cams too, with a couple of extra considerations. Arlo/Amazon Outdoor security cameras are still on your property (or they should be) and they typically fall under the same laws as indoor cameras. As long as security cameras generally face public spots -- the front of your home, sidewalks and streets -- they fall well within the law. If you're the owner, you have the right to film your backyard and other parts of your property, too. However, you cannot film areas where other people have a reasonable expectation of privacy. That means you cannot film a neighbor's backyard or angle a camera so that it can record through their windows. Many cameras have privacy zones and other tricks you can use to avoid even the appearance of spying on someone. The same rules for audio also apply to outdoor cameras. You'll need one-party or two-party consent to record conversations. Security companies skip that hassle by only allowing live audio. That's why you can talk through your video doorbell, for instance, but can't set it up to record conversations. Finally, if you are renting, make sure to stop by our guide on the best security devices and tips if you're living with roommates, which can create another set of headaches when people start encroaching on your personal space.
CNET
07-06-2025
- CNET
My Top 5 Ways to Give Old Security Devices New Life
I know smart home security devices get worn out and replaced, with better features like AI detection. But that doesn't mean you need to give up on your old security tech. I switch out a whole lot of home devices in my reviews, so I'm always tinkering with ways to reuse or find more value in these products. Before you throw out old technology, I've got some ideas. CNET already has an excellent guide to turning an old phone into a security camera. "One of the best app options for setting up your phone as a security camera is Alfred," we confirmed. However, there's a lot more you can do. Before you consider recycling or donations, think about this. Turn a cam into a birdwatcher Outdoor cams can serve many purposes, including watching wildlife once their main job is through. Tyler Lacoma/CNET Security cameras eventually reach the end of their current life, especially when you upgrade to a higher resolution, choose to stop paying for video storage or move to a different home. But that doesn't mean the camera is destined for the dustbin: These cameras generally still have working motion detections and apps that support live view. If they're wireless, you still have the option to put them in many different spots. One of the most popular new uses for old security cams is a bird or wildlife watcher. You can post these cameras in front of a birdfeeder or salt lick, for instance, to get up-close views of what wildlife comes near, along with (if you prefer) notifications about their movement. Open your live view to take a look and nab a screenshot if you want. Bring an outdoor cam inside as a nanny cam The end-gen Arlo Essential Indoor cam is an all-around nanny cam winner. Arlo Outdoor security cams can run into major problems, including broken mounts, scratched lenses, poor fields of view or even legal troubles. If its time as an outdoor monitor has run out, don't throw it away: Bring that camera inside for another task. One effective job, even for a damaged camera, is keeping watch over a baby's crib, pet bed or other nanny cam job. You can set up the old cam on a shelf or nearby table without needing a mount, and even a damaged camera can get a clear enough view and activate motion alerts to let you know about disturbances or changes in behavior that need your attention. Revive a smart display as a digital photo frame Old smart displays are perfect digital photo albums. Amazon Whether you're worried about privacy, upgrading to a new model or choosing a new method of home control, smart displays can reach the end of their useful lives, too. But even if you don't use them to control smart homes, ask voice assistants questions, or watch videos anymore, they can still serve a purpose even if they aren't a central hub anymore. One of the best ways to use an old smart display is by converting it to a digital picture frame. All it needs is access to an outlet, and you can put the display on a shelf or table to showcase a favorite album of pictures, like an eternal screensaver of happy moments. Echo Shows, Nest Hubs, and Lenovo smart displays all have the ability to tap into online photo albums like Google Photos or Amazon albums that you can manage and adjust whenever you want. Then, you can enable a photo mode on the smart display to show them off. That could give your display years of extra service at no additional cost. Recruit a smart plug as an energy monitor device You'd be surprised how many new purposes you can find for an old smart plug. Eve If you're switching around appliances, lighting solutions or entertainment setups, you may find a smart plug or two you no longer use. In these cases, there's another way you can use smart plugs even if you aren't scheduling or controlling devices from afar. Most smart plugs can still work as energy monitors, giving you an idea of how much electricity any plug-in device in your home uses. Passive energy monitoring can be useful for spotting ways to save money or finding the real energy hogs in your home, but that's just the start. Even basic on/off functionality can have its uses as well, especially when it comes to safety. Some people, for example, like to recruit a smart plug where they plug in their blow-dryers or curlers so they can always know for certain if they are turned off or not. Others like to put one on small freezers, so they know if it has unexpectedly shut off. Retrofit an old home security system Wired home security systems don't have to stay forgotten with remnants of an old security system, especially a wired system that can't be easily removed, is more common than you'd think for new homeowners and renters. While you must be careful accessing these devices, you can often retrofit them with a smart upgrade to make them functional again and play well with app controls -- if you have the patience. The key is using a solution like which offers kits that convert old security alarm systems (and other things like old smart garage doors) into versions ready for Wi-Fi and advanced smart features. You can then use popular platforms like SmartThings, Home Assistant and Hubitat to control the security system with updated features. The only downside to this conversion is that it will require some DIY work, including wiring in the new panel. It's not going to work well with modern wireless security sensors, although those may be supported through Zigbee connections for other types of workarounds. Can I remove components from my smart home devices and use those? As an option to tinker around and learn about electronics, sure; as a way to reuse smart home technology -- don't expect anything. Hobbyists with the right tools, parts and coding platforms may be able to make something functional, but again, this is mostly for fun. And, of course, it will void your warranties and make products ineligible for trade-ins, donations, and so on. For more information, visit our guide on how to start making your home smarter, how to reduce the number of smart apps you have to use and how specific smart home devices can save you money.
CTV News
05-06-2025
- Business
- CTV News
High stakes heist of U.S. jewelry store caught on camera
Thieves were caught on camera using a blowtorch to slice their way through a jewelry store's safes, escaping with hundreds of thousands worth of valuables.
CNET
29-05-2025
- General
- CNET
Protect Your Home by Installing Security Cameras Here
Securing your home is more than just picking among the best home security cameras. After you've chosen a camera to keep track of everything going on in your home, it's time to work out the best place to install it. For an outdoor camera, make sure it isn't blocked by plants or decorations, and that it's in a spot that has a clear view without being affected by glare. With indoor cameras, you'll want a clear view of the entire room, and in a place that isn't likely to be blocked by people going about their day. Picking the right location to install your security camera ensures that you'll always have an idea of what's going on at home, even when you're traveling. CNET Fortunately, today's security cameras have wide fields of view and easy-angle mounts. But you still need to start with the right placement for the best results. After years of testing dozens of various home cams, we know exactly where to put them; follow these guidelines, and you won't have any trouble. For more home security tips, check out how to prevent your home security cameras from being hacked and the best cheap home security systems you can buy. Where should you install a home security camera 1. Exterior: Front door You might assume that intruders always sneak into side entrances, but statistics from the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors show that 34% of burglars use the front door. It's also where package thieves are likely to strike. A camera at your main entrance keeps tabs on everybody going in and out of your home, from family members and babysitters to maintenance people, delivery people and more. Pro tip: Video doorbells are great picks for the front door. You can use them as the primary camera or in conjunction with another outdoor camera aimed at the yard or garage. Blink's Outdoor 4 cam is easy to mount and reliable for watching an outdoor space. CNET/Tyler Lacoma 2. Exterior: Back and side doors Doors that are out of sight allow visitors to enter undetected, whether they're invited or not. NACHI statistics show 22% of break-ins happen through the back door. To ensure full knowledge of everyone who enters and exits, add cameras to your secondary doors, especially if one of them is used as often or more often than your front door, or if one (like a basement door) seems particularly enticing or accessible to a potential intruder. 3. Exterior: Garage and driveway Garages are a common target of burglars because they're one of the weakest entry points. A camera pointed at your garage and/or driveway keeps a watchful eye on bikes, tools, grills, sports equipment, cars and everyone that handles them. If your garage is detached, the camera helps you stay connected. If the garage is attached, the extra layer of security monitors another possible entryway into your home. If there's a gate at the end of your driveway, you may want a camera there to spot anyone attempting to get in. 4. Exterior: Wide yard views Monitoring the yard will help you keep tabs on anyone scoping out your house. It's also handy for capturing the activities of kids, animals and trespassers. As with garages, look for cams that have a wide field of view to capture lots of action, at least 130 degrees and preferably more. If you have a yard entrance, like a fence gate or a shed doorway, make sure the camera can see it. Blink offers a cheap option for a smart floodlight cam. Blink 5. Interior: Common areas Placing cameras in gathering points like the kitchen or living room is a great way to see if the kids are doing what they're supposed to do, if the babysitter is attentive, what the pets are getting into, or to check on household help like cleaners and repairmen. Consider prioritizing any rooms that have large ground-floor windows — that way you can see if anyone tampers with them or uses one as a break-in point. If there's a key point of interest like a sofa, pet bed or living room play area, make sure the camera can see it. 6. Interior: Main stairway or hallway Place a camera in the main thoroughfares inside your home to make it difficult for someone to move about undetected. If someone breaks in through a bathroom, bedroom or another unmonitored area, they'll still be captured on camera if they move about the house. Indoor security cameras are useful, but finding ones with privacy shields are worthwhile to help minimize the risks of hackers gaining access to sensitive footage. Arlo Here's where you should never install a security camera Places that violate your neighbor's privacy. Cameras are great for your safety, but you need to be mindful of the privacy of others in your neighborhood. In general, homeowners are allowed to have outdoor security cameras that cover a broad area, and it's usually OK to capture your neighbor's public-facing property in the background of your footage. Learn more with our full guide. Cameras are great for your safety, but you need to be mindful of the privacy of others in your neighborhood. In general, homeowners are allowed to have outdoor security cameras that cover a broad area, and it's usually OK to capture your neighbor's public-facing property in the background of your footage. Learn more with our full guide. Bedrooms and bathrooms. The urge to keep a watchful eye on kids or elderly folks in your household is understandable. However, some areas have a warranted expectation of privacy. Plus, if you use a monitoring service, you run the risk of a hacker tapping into a camera that has access to your private spaces. Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives. Baby monitors are a smart choice for very young kids' rooms. Motion detectors and glass break sensors, as part of a connected home security system, can be added to doors and windows. Personal medical alert systems are strong choices for seniors. Arlo's compact cams also make a great bundled discount. Arlo Tips for outdoor security cam placement Once you decide which locations to monitor, you also need to plan your mounting decisions. These tips make easy work of this step: Install cameras 8 to 10 feet from the ground. This height is low enough to capture fine details but high enough to be out of easy reach of thieves and vandals. This height is low enough to capture fine details but high enough to be out of easy reach of thieves and vandals. Don't point cameras directly at the sun. Bright light causes glare and high contrast in your footage, which makes it hard to tell what's going on. Consider the movement of the sun and angle your cameras for indirect light. Bright light causes glare and high contrast in your footage, which makes it hard to tell what's going on. Consider the movement of the sun and angle your cameras for indirect light. Protect the camera from the elements. Top outdoor security cameras have ample weather- and waterproofing, but they are not all equal. Choose a camera that's appropriately rated for your climate, and place it under eaves or in another semi-protected area if you can. Top outdoor security cameras have ample weather- and waterproofing, but they are not all equal. Choose a camera that's appropriately rated for your climate, and place it under eaves or in another semi-protected area if you can. Avoid places too close to branches or bushes . Plants grow over time and can block your security camera. . Plants grow over time and can block your security camera. Let cameras be visible. Visible cameras can act as a deterrent against theft, and that's one of the best uses of your security system. Battery powered outdoor cameras allow more flexibility for placement, while wired ones will need to be close to a power source. Chris Monroe/CNET Tips for indoor security cam placement Corners are your friends. Hanging an indoor camera in the corner of a room usually gives you the largest possible vantage point. Hanging an indoor camera in the corner of a room usually gives you the largest possible vantage point. Choose a shelf for versatility . If you don't have to mount your cam, placing it on a shelf allows you to make adjustments later or even move it to another room. . If you don't have to mount your cam, placing it on a shelf allows you to make adjustments later or even move it to another room. Windows can cause reflection issues. Pointing a camera at the window might degrade its image quality. Many security cameras have infrared light technology, which aids in motion detection and enables the cameras to function in low light. IR light can reflect off windows and other glass objects and obscure your footage, especially in the dark. If your footage looks washed out or whited out, there is likely a reflection problem. Pointing a camera at the window might degrade its image quality. Many security cameras have infrared light technology, which aids in motion detection and enables the cameras to function in low light. IR light can reflect off windows and other glass objects and obscure your footage, especially in the dark. If your footage looks washed out or whited out, there is likely a reflection problem. Angle for indirect light. Again, direct light will wash out your footage. With indoor cameras, be mindful of lamps, light fixtures and bright windows. Avoid facing your camera directly toward these light sources. Ring's battery cam is on the higher-end but offers a versatile, weather resistant option to watch kids, wherever they are. CNET/Tyler Lacoma Do video doorbells have special installation rules? Position video doorbells so they have a good view of your porch or entryway. These cameras are angled a bit differently than other security cameras, so follow the manual instructions carefully. Usually, they need to be placed around 4 feet up from the base of the front door. In tighter spaces, video doorbells should be angled outward to capture as much activity as possible. Fortunately, many video doorbells come with a special wedge just for this purpose. Otherwise, put it where people would naturally press a doorbell. Are there super-portable security cams? In some cases, you may want a security camera that you can move around all the time. That makes it easy to put down wherever the kids are playing, indoors or outside, or to focus on a problem spot where things keep going missing (avoid workplace refrigerators, please). In these cases, we recommend battery-powered indoor/outdoor cams that you can move anywhere and that are weather-resistant in case they're left out in the rain. One candidate is Ring's Stick-Up Cam Pro ($180), which has an excellent collection of watchful features. Another option is the Google Nest Indoor/Outdoor Cam battery model ($176), which is often shown mounted but can also come with a tabletop mount. To learn more, check out our picks for the best outdoor security cameras or explore our comprehensive guide to the best home security systems.
Gizmodo
22-05-2025
- Business
- Gizmodo
Don't Buy Just One, Blink Outdoor 4 Security Cam (2-Pack) Is 50% Off and Makes Way More Sense
If you have been eyeing and considering looking for an upgrade for your home security setup needs, now is the perfect time. The Blink Outdoor 4 (2-Camera System) is currently available at a significant discount, offering advanced and smart features, while also being reliable in its performance to keep your property safe. This wireless, weather-resistant, strong security camera system provides full HD video, two-way audio so you can either hear or talk, and enhanced motion detection, making it an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor monitoring alike. See at Amazon For a limited time only, you can purchase the amazing Blink Outdoor 4 Security Cam (2-Pack) for just $89.99, down from its original price of $179.99. That is a substantial 50% discount on a highly-rated security solution for all your home security needs. This deal is part of Amazon's early Memorial Day sales, so it won't last long. You need to act fast. Be There from Anywhere The Blink Outdoor 4 cameras are not just for highly qualified engineers or tech enthusiasts who are used to high-end devices. They were actually designed with everyday people in mind. Whether you work from home or are away for hours on a daily basis, it's specifically crafted for easy installation and very long-lasting performance. Once you set it up, it's done. With a battery life that goes up to two years on a single set of AA lithium batteries, you won't have to worry about frequent replacements and moving it around the house. The system also includes a Sync Module 2, allowing you to control the cameras through the Blink Home Monitor app and integrate them with Alexa and other devices for easy voice commands and smart home routines. These cameras offer 1080p full HD live view, infrared night vision, and customizable motion detection zones, ensuring you receive accurate alerts and clear footage whether it is day or night. The two-way audio feature also lets you communicate with visitors or deter intruders directly from your smartphone, anywhere you are. Whether you are sitting at home or away, the Blink Outdoor 4 system provides peace of mind with its reliable performance and user-friendly interface. At only $89.99, the Blink Outdoor 4 Security Cam (2-Pack) is an unbeatable value, offering premium features at an affordable price. This huge 50% discount is available for a limited time only, so don't miss your chance to enhance your home security now. Head to Amazon to take advantage of this exceptional deal before it's gone. See at Amazon
