Covert Surveillance Camera Systems are Cause for Concern.

The use of covert surveillance camera systems has exploded onto the scene in the past couple of decades, especially with digital technology and miniaturization.

Even civil liberties proponents know there are a few situations in which a surveillance camera can be useful.

But the misuse and abuse of the technology has caused a great deal of concern, among groups on both ends of the political spectrum.

The questions remain: How should these systems be used? What constitutes legal use?

Suppliers of some of the most sophisticated surveillance equipment available often state that they are only providing a service, and it’s up to the customer to decide if the planned use is legal or illegal.

Buying a small surveillance camera isn’t illegal in most cases, but it’s always best to check the state and local laws governing possession and use of such systems.

Those who sell such camera systems are quick to point out that their product differs greatly from a recording or listening device.

The line blurs however with cameras when the images are recorded without the knowledge of people being watched.

In many situations, it is quite legal for law enforcement and other government agencies to use this type of system, but a private individual may have to get some legal guidance or even a permit to make use of video images.

Covert Surveillance Cameras are Everywhere

You Can’t Have One

Some types of covert surveillance camera cannot be purchased by an individual for private use.

These are only available to law enforcement agencies and government representatives.

There may be issues with installing a hidden camera if the images of your neighbors and friends are recorded without them knowing it.

There are issues with strategically placed cameras in the workplace as well.

Even though government agencies and law enforcement personnel can more readily acquire and use such systems, some have raised issues with these agencies as well.

As with so many plans, programs and services, those who work in the surveillance camera industry realize the events of September 11, 2001 changed their world for the better.

Some Had Problems with this Before 9/11

The issue of being watched by a covert surveillance camera was of concern to some before that historic day in 2001.

But when government agencies increased their use of such systems and asked for less-restrictive laws on their use, protests from the private sector increased dramatically.

As mentioned earlier, there may well be a few limited situations in which the use of hidden cameras is warranted.

However, extending their use because of 9/11 and stating that we live in a different world that requires constant surveillance is no excuse for putting cameras everywhere to watch everyone.

Civil liberties advocates have a particular problem with the misuse of this type of camera system.

No Distinctions

At the heart of the issue is the fact that these camera systems don’t distinguish between someone acting illegally and someone who is going about their daily business.

Government representatives respond to this by stating that the law-abiding citizen has nothing to worry about.

But we live in a world of ideas and beliefs, and the majority of people don’t want their activities to be recorded, even if they are staying within legal guidelines.

In the last two years, a unique twist has appeared in the world of the covert surveillance camera.

A select few fanatics have started to use covert cameras to watch the cameras and people who are watching them.

Because the cost of equipment has dropped so dramatically and the cameras are so small, it has become easy for the individual to do some watching of his own.

In the 21st century, everyone’s eyes are on everyone else.