Caught in the Act…Everything You Need to Know about Hidden Cams

Let’s play a game of word association. If you were to hear, “hidden camera,” what would be the first thing that comes to mind? If I had to guess, I’d say you thought of television shows such as Punk’d or, if you are a little older, Candid Camera. You may even have that little ditty from the show’s theme in your head now. You are welcome. In any case, hidden or “covert” cameras are for more than late night television gags. They are being used by news media, police forces and average families. 

Chances are, you’ve been intrigued by one of the many specials on people “caught in the act.” Insurance fraud, sex offenders, affairs, drug deals…There seems to be no limit to the scandalous performances of “everyday people” being exploited on national television. The situation may or may not be staged, but, if permission is granted, it will be aired. We seem to take for granted that everyone who is told they’d just been filmed readily accepts the chance to be on TV, though we aren’t told the reaction of those who don’t. It should serve as a reminder to stay out of such situations, but the amount of television specials as these prove otherwise. 

Not all hidden cameras are used to be aired for the world to see. Hidden surveillance is also being used by detectives, FBI and police forces in “sting” operations. They are capturing offenders on film unaware and then having solid evidence for their crime during trial. So, what’s the difference between these video surveillances and the ones used for media? Law enforcement doesn’t need your permission to use the film in court. 

You or your neighbors may have joined with these, more public forms of hidden camera surveillance. Families who want to monitor their home while they are at work have installed hidden cameras through their PC’s webcam, in stuffed animals, or tucked discreetly on the mantle. Dubbed “nannycams,” these miniature surveillance cameras monitor the nanny or housekeeper to be sure they are working professionally. Hidden home surveillance is becoming increasingly available and affordable for the average family.

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