(ModernSurvival.org) – As law-abiding citizens grapple with rising costs of living, the last thing they want is to come home to a house violated and ransacked by criminals. Unfortunately, this is a very real possibility. According to Forbes, there is a rough average of 1 million burglaries in the U.S. each year. That is one robbery every 25.7 seconds.
Installing security systems with obvious cameras is one of the most effective ways to deter a potential criminal from targeting your home. A truly determined crook, however, could look for weak points in the system and try their luck. This is one reason why having hidden cameras is also a good idea.
Is it Legal to Have Hidden Cameras in Your Home?
The laws regarding hidden cameras vary from state to state, but it is widely accepted that filming in your home is perfectly legal with certain exceptions. For example, you cannot legally film anywhere a person could reasonably expect privacy, such as private bedrooms or bathrooms. Placing ‘spy’ cameras in the living room, kitchen, or dining room is acceptable.
Hidden cameras that record audio are a concern you should be aware of. Recording a person’s conversation without consent is illegal in most states.
Aren’t Visible Cameras Enough?
Highly visible security systems are often enough to deter a criminal, but the fact that they are obvious is also a potential pitfall. If every camera is out in the open, a determined or skilled thief will know where not to be while trying to break in. Having hidden cameras within the home provides a second layer of defense should they get in, providing evidence police can use to track down and potentially prosecute the guilty party.
Other Reasons to Consider Hidden Cameras
Gathering additional evidence against a potential home invader is great, especially considering only 13% of property crimes are solved each year. However, there are many other reasons to consider installing hidden cameras in your home.
Keep an Eye on Your Pets
If you have pets, installing hidden cameras throughout your home allows you to keep an eye on them while you’re out. This is a great way to keep tabs on ornery critters who like to get in the trash or run roughshod through the house.
Watch Hired Help
If you have hired help such as a babysitter, caregiver, gardener, or maid, hidden cameras allow you to observe their activity as they work. There’s no need to worry if they’re slacking off or engaging in nefarious activities if you can always see them.
Watch Your Loved Ones
If you have children or an elderly family member in the home, installing hidden cameras lets you check in on them periodically to ensure they’re safe.
So Many Choices
Hidden cameras come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with some even designed to mimic items normally found in the home. For example, fully functioning electrical outlets that contain secret spy cameras. Other cleverly hidden cameras include smoke detectors, ballpoint pens, and even alarm clocks.
In today’s world, you can never be too careful when it comes to home security. There are many ways to protect your home, and hidden cameras or full-blown security systems are just the start. For more advice on how to make your house a castle, take a peek at our article covering Important Tips and Tools for Securing Your Property.
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