Latest news with #securitycameras
Gizmodo
2 days ago
- Gizmodo
Blink's Newest Outdoor Smart Security Cam (3-Pack) Is Now 62% Off, Practically Free Per Unit
Place the cameras around your home and set up an uncompromising security grid. Upgrading your home security system doesn't have to mean a complicated installation or a subscription you'll forget about in six months. If you've been trying to figure out a way to keep tabs on your front porch, backyard, or garage without spending a fortune, you should consider what Amazon has on offer by way of its security cameras. We've found a fantastic deal that you won't want to skip out on right now, in fact. See at Amazon Right now, you can check Amazon to get a 3-pack of the Blink Outdoor 4 wireless smart security camera for just $100, down from its usual price of $260. That's $160 off and a discount of 62%. Let's reiterate that you get three cameras here, so you can place them wherever you want around your house. That's a pretty significant discount. Reliable security cameras at a dynamite discount The Blink Outdoor 4 offers 1080p HD video for both daytime and nighttime viewing. Whether you're checking in during the day or keeping watch after sunset, the image stays crisp thanks to upgraded infrared night vision. And because these cameras are battery-powered, you won't need to run wires or drill holes. Just pop in the included AA lithium batteries and mount the cameras wherever you need coverage. Each one is designed to last for up to two years on a single set of batteries. With motion detection alerts sent straight to your phone, you can see what's happening in real time without constantly checking in. There are also customizable motion zones to help you avoid false alarms, so you only get notified when it actually matters and your phone isn't pinging you every five minutes when a cat or dog walks across its vision. There's also two-way audio, which means you can talk to whoever's at your door without opening it, whether it's a delivery driver or someone who shouldn't be there. Though you probably don't want to hold a conversation with someone who shouldn't be there. The Blink Outdoor 4 works with Alexa, so if you've got a compatible Echo device, you can use voice commands to pull up a live feed. And since it's a three-camera setup, you'll be able to monitor multiple areas at once, whether that's your driveway, back gate, or side yard. This three-pack is a fantastic deal for just $100 (-62%). It's flexible, reliable, and easy to use, and you won't need to commit to any long-term plans to get the most out of it. Grab your set while you can. See at Amazon
Gizmodo
3 days ago
- Business
- Gizmodo
Amazon Has No Margin Left on this Wireless Blink Camera, Now 60% Off Just Like Black Friday
Smart technology has made it easier than ever to keep an eye on your property whether you're at home or away. One of the top names in this field is Blink, a company that belongs to… Amazon itself. The brand is known for its user-friendly wireless cameras and what's truly impressive is how Amazon sometimes slashes prices so dramatically that it leaves little or no margin for itself. This happens during big sales events like Prime Day or Black Friday, but right now, you can also take advantage of an all-time low price on the latest Blink security setup. For a limited time, there's a five-pack of Blink Outdoor 4 wireless smart security cameras available for just $159: That's an astonishing 60% off the regular price of $399. This is the deepest discounts ever offered on this product, and you should make sure you don't miss this opportunity. Whether you live in an apartment or house, these are simple to install and employ (no electrical technical sorcery required). See Blink x5 at Amazon Great Security System The Blink Outdoor 4 is the latest model of the company's wireless smart security cameras and it is meant to help you secure your home both indoors and outdoors from your phone: Five Blink Outdoor 4 cameras, a Sync Module 2, ten AA lithium metal batteries, five mounting kits, a USB cable, and an adapter are all that the kit includes. By having this complete bundle, you can easily install multiple points of entry or even separate areas of your estate with minimal inconvenience. You will be impressed by its astonishing battery life of two years powered by the included AA lithium batteries. That is why you can easily install your cameras within minutes and then enjoy long-term security without constantly fretting about recharging or battery replacement. The camera itself offers sharp 1080p HD real-time video in the daytime and with infrared nighttime vision, you can see your property even at night when it is dark outside. Two-way audio allows you to listen and speak through the camera if needed. The Blink Outdoor 4 has enhanced dual-zone motion detection tech so you'll receive faster, more accurate alerts on your phone whenever there's movement. For additional peace of mind, the camera system also includes integrated person detection with computer vision – which is an optional feature with a Blink Subscription Plan, purchased separately. As for your storage of footage, you have options that are flexible: The system comes with a 30-day free trial of a Blink Subscription Plan to store your video clips safely in the cloud. Or you can store your footage locally using the included Sync Module 2 and a USB drive (separately sold). This gives you the freedom to choose how and where your video is stored according to your requirements and wishes. If you're looking for a simple way to protect your home, the Blink Outdoor 4 is a wise investment. See at Amazon
ABC News
6 days ago
- Business
- ABC News
Do security cameras deter thieves?
Joel Bentley decided to install security cameras as a preventative measure, before experiencing a break-in. He has four cameras outside his unit at Sunshine North in Melbourne, on Wurundjeri country. "I feel that it's the best approach to deterring would-be criminals from targeting my property and just to make it slightly less attractive," Mr Bentley says. With crime rates a big concern for many Australians, households are increasingly turning to technology to try to protect against thieves. But how effective are they in deterring thieves and what should you consider before buying and installing them? Allistair Baines manages a company based in Wurundjeri/Box Hill South, Victoria, which sells and installs CCTV cameras across the country. He told ABC radio program PM that he has noticed a rise in interest recently. "We are seeing a big increase in customers' inquiries," he says. "There are very new advancements in low-light technology where the cameras, they can stay in full colour so they don't revert to infrared. Ausma Bernot, a lecturer in technology and crime at Griffith University on Kombumerri lands/Gold Coast, says some cameras now have AI technology. "The [AI recognition] cameras, can distinguish between people and pets," she says. "They can be hardwired into the building, they can be cloud connected, and they can also alarm you to when they detect somebody or something outside of your home and that alert sounds on your phone on your app. "So these capabilities are quite advanced, it's almost like [having] a security guard." Mr Bentley says the cameras not only provide security, there is the added benefit of knowing when he has had deliveries arrive at his doorstep. "I'm more interested, to be honest, in knowing when my food delivery man has dropped off something at the front door or the postie if I'm not at home." Rick Brown is deputy director at the Australian Institute of Criminology at Ngunnawal/Barton, in the ACT, and has researched the effectiveness of security cameras. "CCTV is useful for preventing certain sorts of crime and they tend to be vehicle crime, particularly in car parks, property crime and crime around drug markets," he told PM. "Those are really the three where there's evidence that they work." Ms Bernot says the evidence on their effectiveness is mixed. "We do know that that cameras don't have a very strong and continued trend to help with security, especially when it comes to individual homes," she says. "But of course, when we're thinking about deterrence, making the target of the home as unattractive for the thief as possible ... "It's good to have a fence, it's good to have a dog, it's good to have any sort of device that might look like a camera, even if it's not." The Queensland Police Service says house break-ins are one of the most common crimes and can occur at any time of the day or night. It says security cameras should be viewed as one part of an overall crime prevention strategy. "A simple and effective way to review your home security is to start from the outside of your home and work inwards, using a layered approach," a QPS spokesperson says. It recommends ensuring CCTV cameras, alarms and lighting are installed and of sufficient quality to effectively detect, identify and record unwanted activities. Ms Bernot says it is important to do some research before you purchase a camera. "Cameras do not have amazing specs when it comes to night vision, and a lot of crime does happen in the dark hours of the day," she says. "But there's also that question of, if it's a nice sunny day, that the camera footage might be the most useful." Ms Bernot says another element worth considering is the risk live-streaming cameras pose to privacy. "The cameras, in theory, they're amazing, but there's also some unexpected risks that you're introducing to your home as well," she says. "Most of them are extremely hackable," she says. "We have hacked some very cheap cameras and some very expensive cameras with my team [for research]. "At the moment, the manufacturers are not really motivated to increase the cybersecurity aspects of these cameras to the level that we would want them to be at." Ms Bernot says if a camera is hacked, the live stream can be shared with others, so she advises to be cautious about what rooms you have them in. "It is actually good, if you can do it, to set the camera up on a separate network in case it is hacked, [so] it doesn't affect all of your devices," she says. "So you do have to think about if you're buying a camera, doing a little bit of research first." This article contains general information only. You should consider obtaining independent professional advice in relation to your particular circumstances.
Gizmodo
13-06-2025
- Business
- Gizmodo
Just Like Black Friday, Amazon Gives You a Free Arlo 2K Security Camera When You Buy One
Arlo is our top pick for security cameras, delivering outstanding performance both indoors and outdoors. Keeping your home or apartment safe is more important than ever and investing in high-quality security equipment is a smart move for peace of mind. Arlo has established itself as a global leader in home security and it is popular for its reliable and feature-rich cameras. While Arlo products are usually on the pricier side, every now and then, Amazon offers deals so good they're hard to ignore. F or a limited time only, the Arlo Essential Security Camera 2K (2nd Gen) is available for an all-time lowest price of $89 as a two-camera set, down from its normal list price of $190. That's a massive 53% discount, and a scarce opportunity to purchase two high-end cameras for the price of one. See at Amazon The Arlo Essential camera 2K can be placed indoors or outdoors, and give you flexibility and security where you need it most. With each camera, you get crisp 2K video so you never miss a thing. Wherever you're looking in your front porch, backyard or living room, these cameras provide high-resolution images that make it easy to recognize faces, license plates, or other important details. The wireless design means you can put them almost anywhere without the burden of complicated wiring, and the easy setup process plugs directly into your 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network. If your router is dual-band, you likely already have a 2.4GHz network so you rarely have to worry about compatibility. It also has an onboard spotlight which improves nighttime clarity and acts as an intruder deterrent. Color night vision means you get crisp and full-color images even in the dark which is a huge improvement over old black-and-white night vision. The cameras themselves also offer two-way audio so you'll be able to hear and talk through the app, from welcoming a visitor at the door to driving away an unwelcome visitor. Real-time alerts keep you informed as soon as motion is detected, and you'll be able to activate the remote siren from your phone in the event you need to scare off an intruder or alert neighbors. The Arlo Secure app is central to the experience with live streaming, motion alert and the capability to review footage wherever you are. You can also enable the spotlight and siren remotely via the app and with a 130-degree wide-angle lens, you're surveying more with fewer cameras. For those who need more features, the optional Arlo Secure plan unlocks more features like storage of video recordings up to 60 days, customizable alerts for persons, cars, packages, dogs, and even fire. You will also love its integration with popular smart home hubs. The Arlo Essential Camera integrates with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant so you can arm or disarm cameras using voice commands or view live streams on compatible smart displays. For even more automation, you can connect the cameras with IFTTT for functionality like low battery alert or automatic turning on of compatible lights when there is motion. If you're serious about protecting your home, now is the perfect time to invest in Arlo. See at Amazon
CNET
12-06-2025
- CNET
The Rise of Police Swatting: I Asked Cops for Details to Protect Your Home
Swatting is a disturbing (and very illegal) prank where a fake threat is called in to police at an innocent target's address. You may have seen it in a growing number of headlines over recent years. Swatting can be especially dangerous for unwary people at home, who have no idea police are surrounding their residence or what to do in response. Swatting began in the gaming world as a particularly malicious joke after a bad game, related to doxxing people and making online threats. But it's grown since then, with swatting becoming a consequence of political disagreements, neighborhood feuds and teenage dares. It's also grown more sophisticated, with websites and apps springing up that let you spoof your phone number (or use a VoIP service) and also disguise your voice. Some swatters even hack into vulnerable security cameras when they do it. Obviously, this is a huge source of distress for everyone, from gamers to public figures. I spoke with law enforcement and emergency response specialists to find out everything you should know about swatting, including tips if you're worried. First, the good news about swatting Many police departments are now ready for swatting has been around long enough that law enforcement agencies and emergency communication centers are generally aware of it. The FBI continues to issue guidance alerts, including the latest public service announcement, from April 2025. That means swatting is a bit less likely to work, since responders are increasingly aware of the hallmarks of swatting, like spoofed or blocked numbers, a lack of background noises, a lack of nearby confirming calls and a caller who can't confirm key details. I reached out to the Portland Police Bureau to learn more. Public information officer Sgt. Kevin Allen had encouraging information. "Every time I have heard about it happening," he said, "the initially responding patrol officers have done a phenomenal job of vetting the call and determining that it is not legitimate." That's helping to avoid the fear, money and time that's wasted when people are swatted. The FBI has worked to raise awareness of swatting, too. And despite the dangers, the number of deaths resulting from swatting is very, very low, confined to a handful of tragic cases, such as one in Kansas in 2017 and another in Tennessee in 2020. And now that a number of swatters have been sentenced to serious prison time, internet trolls know they can face real consequences. However, the problem is that the allegation of swatting is so serious, as it is with crimes like murder, kidnapping or a bomb threat, that emergency services generally have to investigate. And police don't always know if it's a swatting case until they arrive at an address and check it out, which is why it can be so dangerous. But there are safety measures you and your friends and family can take. What to do if you think you've been swatted You can prepare for swatting if you believe you've been threatened. kali9/Getty Images If you've gotten threatening messages or other signs that make you think you've just been swatted or will be soon, there are a few important things you can do right away to stay safe. Contact law enforcement Reach out to your local police and explain the problem. "If someone thinks they might be targeted, it's a good idea to file an informational police report about it," Allen said. "Responding officers would have access to that, typically, and that would help." Law enforcement responses can vary, but sometimes it helps to report that you're worried you've been swatted. "Here in Portland, officers may set up a perimeter around a residence and try to make phone contact," Allen said, "So having an accurate and current name and phone number in the system is really helpful." Also contact your local emergency communications center and explain the issue to them. Often, they'll also be able to put in a note for your address that says you're worried you've been swatted. Get loved ones to a safe place If possible, relocate pets and family until the swatting danger appears to have passed. You may not have a lot of time, but do what you can to make sure arriving police officers won't be running into your pets or scaring any children. Stay aware and alert If you get threatening messages in a game or online forum, take them seriously and start paying attention for signs of swatting. "It's smart to maintain some awareness about what's happening in your home," Allen said. "Sometimes we find people are home alone, playing video games with their sound-blocking headphones and can't hear us calling, knocking or 'loud hailing' -- that's when we use a loudspeaker to call into a home." Prep your home for a visit Remember, law enforcement officers are often required to investigate swatting claims. That means you may still get a visit even if you do everything right. Store any weapons you have and prepare to greet police. When I talked with John Chiaramonte, president of consulting services at 911 facilitator Mission Critical Partners, he said, "Stay calm, follow police commands and avoid sudden movements. ... Comply with commands and clarify when it's safe. Afterward, file a report and preserve any threatening messages." Chiaramonte said he thinks additional federal legislation should address swatting, but for now, he said, remember that police officers often believe it's a real emergency. "Awareness, preparation and communication can help ensure a safe outcome," he said. How to avoid being swatted You can help lower the risk of swatting if you think you may be a target."It's difficult to 'prevent' swatting," Allen told me. Swatting is frightening because it's uncontrollable, and you usually don't know when or even why it's happening. But there are several practical steps that can reduce your risk, especially when it comes to the internet hordes. Turn off location services. If your gaming platform or communication hub uses location-based services, turn them off when possible. They make it much easier to find your real address online. You can usually find these settings in your profile or the data-sharing sections of the apps you use. If your gaming platform or communication hub uses location-based services, turn them off when possible. They make it much easier to find your real address online. You can usually find these settings in your profile or the data-sharing sections of the apps you use. Wipe your address from the internet. "Review your online presence for sensitive personal information that could enable malicious actors to conduct a swatting attack," the FBI suggests. I have a full guide on how to do this here. You can't usually scrub your address everywhere, but you can make it a lot harder to find. Steps like using a P.O. Box and sending requests to take down personal contact info can make a big difference. Plus, you may get less junk mail. "Review your online presence for sensitive personal information that could enable malicious actors to conduct a swatting attack," the FBI suggests. I have a full guide on how to do this here. You can't usually scrub your address everywhere, but you can make it a lot harder to find. Steps like using a P.O. Box and sending requests to take down personal contact info can make a big difference. Plus, you may get less junk mail. Don't share your address on social media or other sites. From your profile info to other ID data, don't include information on your address or the city you live in on any social media you use. If you use a payment service, create a separate one for your online activities that doesn't have your real name attached. "Exercise care when posting content (including photos and videos) or sharing it with individuals online," the FBI says. That includes platforms like Reddit, Discord and Twitch. From your profile info to other ID data, don't include information on your address or the city you live in on any social media you use. If you use a payment service, create a separate one for your online activities that doesn't have your real name attached. "Exercise care when posting content (including photos and videos) or sharing it with individuals online," the FBI says. That includes platforms like Reddit, Discord and Twitch. Use a VPN if worried. A VPN can make it much harder to track your IP address and similar info that could be used by a more determined swatter to identify your location. If you're concerned and you aren't already using a VPN, this is an excellent opportunity to get one. A VPN can make it much harder to track your IP address and similar info that could be used by a more determined swatter to identify your location. If you're concerned and you aren't already using a VPN, this is an excellent opportunity to get one. Remember, swatting thrives on conflict. Unless you're a celebrity, swatting usually has some purpose or some triggering event behind it. The more you avoid open conflict online and, well, generally avoid being a jerk, the less likely it is someone will swat you. Do you need to worry about accidentally swatting someone? Not really. If you're dialing 911 in an emergency and you're as honest as possible with emergency services, they should be able to help you out, even if you accidentally get an address wrong or lose your train of thought. But it's a good idea to take a deep breath and try not to flub any details. For more helpful info from our experts, check out the best home security systems, how to update your smart home passwords and whether you need to worry about any kinds of smart home hacking.
