Spy Cameras - Don't Leave Your Home Unprotected

It is becoming more and more popular for people to buy spy cameras to protect their home. Many feel that home surveillance will keep them safer. You can videotape anyone that is taking care of your kids or loved ones and make sure they are doing what they are suppose to. You can even make sure your home is safe.

Spy cameras are easy to use. There are so many kinds of spy cameras that you are sure to find one to fit your needs. The World's Smallest DVR Camera with 2GB Memory and the Pen Cam Combo, for instance, are great for recording someone near you without them knowing about it. They are very easy to hide and also very easy to use.

Having home surveillance is very popular these days. Many people don't feel safe in their home so they want added protection. Along with home alarms people are setting up cameras that are motion detected. The Color Spy Camera with Built in DVR and the Looker Security DVR are both great for use on homes. If anyone walks around your home they will be videotaped.

If you need more camera options and longer recording times a wired spy camera with pinhole lens and separate recorder may be your answer. A pinhole spy camera only needs about 1/16" hole to see through and their small size of 1" or less square make them easy to place in various household or office items. You will need to run a cable from the camera to a recording device such as a DVR or VCR but with a little care the wires can be easily hidden.

Wireless spy cameras should also be considered. They transmit the signal wirelessly to a receiver in another location, usually another room or nearby building. The output of the receiver is plugged into a recording device such as a DVR or VCR which can have much longer recoding time. By recording the video in another location the evidence will not be lost if the camera is discovered and taken or destroyed.

This videotaping will be great evidence for the police and will make it much easier to find the perpetrator. The police can use the video as evidence. This can give you and your family a lot of peace of mind.

The Color Spy Camera with Built-in DVR is a great camera that you can take with you. Being portable it can go with you anyplace that you want to record someone. There is no need for plugging it in, just set it on a shelf turn it on and it runs for 5 to 6 hours on 4 AA batteries.

Just search for the above mentioned cameras and you will find great deals on the internet. When you need to videotape remember that spy cameras work very well. Make sure that you protect your family by placing spy cameras around your home.

Security Cameras in Taxicabs

In September 2005 the city of Ottawa passed a bylaw that would require all city taxi cab drivers to install security cameras in their vehicles by March 21, 2008. The mini security cameras would snap periodic still photos of a car’s occupants, On February 12, 2008 hundreds of taxi drivers protested outside of city hall in Ottawa by clogging the streets and honking their horns defiantly. Prior to this demonstration of protest the taxi driver’s union representative announced that they refused to have the cameras installed without their consent.

Cost and privacy are the two major issues that have the cab drivers up in arms. "Our people feel that the camera is going to be used to discipline drivers," says Mohamad Alsadi, a national representative of the Canadian Auto Workers Union. Drivers were told that the cameras would cost between $700 and $1,000, but the price has climbed to $1,500. Drivers have been charging an extra 5 cents surcharge on all fares to help fund the cameras, but the difference in cost will have to be paid by drivers/owners of the cars.

As a result of the protest and a subsequent city council meeting , the date that drivers are required to have cameras installed by has been moved to July 2, 2008. The mayor threatened that taxi drivers would risk having their licences lifted if they refused to have the cameras installed. In the meeting mayor O’Brian stated, "The key issue in terms of my decision-making was related to public safety. A secondary issue was the safety of the drivers." This slightly thoughtless statement may explain why a large number of drivers believe that the bylaw is discriminatory. Following the meeting, the mayor's office released a statement to clarify his comment about public safety. It said the cameras are for the benefit of both the public and drivers equally, and the mayor apologized for any confusion his comments may have caused.


Advantages of taxi security camera include protection for the drivers, deterrent for potential violence, and prevention of robberies. According to Stats Canada for the period 2001 to 2005, cab driving was the most dangerous work-related job in Canada. Cab drivers work all hours of the night and in all neighbourhoods. They put themselves at the mercy of their passengers. Between 2001 and 2003, crimes against Manitoba city taxi drivers dropped 79% after security cameras were installed and mandated by the city. At the same time, the cameras monitor driver behaviour as well. Passengers aren't the only ones with the potential to act out of line in a taxi cab. Drivers can also be guilty on occasion. Taxi cameras help to ensure that cab drivers carry out their duties in a professional manner. In cases where violent confrontations or robberies do take place, in-cab security cameras can provide valuable video evidence for criminal investigations.

The drivers union claims they won’t cave on this issue and have not ruled out the possibility of a strike. The city council representative stated that the drivers concerns of cost and privacy are being addressed, but as it stands the bylaw will be enforced starting July 2, 2008. Ottawa residents may find it difficult to find a cab come July.


About the Author: Mike Ward is the owner and operator of Protection Depot, a leading online provider of mini security cameras and security cameras. For more information about security cameras, please visit Protection Depot.

What To Do If You Think Your Being Bugged

Surveillance technology has evolved by leaps and bounds over the last several years. Audio and video bugging devices have gotten smaller and are more readily available than ever. Concealable high resolution color cameras and audio recording devices that can store hundreds of hours of audio can be purchased by anyone for less than one hundred dollars in a local “spy” store or on the internet. Mini security cameras are allowed in public places and to help protect private property, but it is not uncommon for them to be placed in hotel rooms, showers, cars, phone lines, While laws prohibit such infringement of privacy not everyone abides by them. Whether you are involved in high profile business deals, developing new technology, going through a divorce or other legal proceedings, or shower at the local gym you may be at risk from prying eyes and ears.

Bug detectors are a small device that can pick up transmitted signals from video or audio bugging devices. Most bugs rely on wireless technology and send radio frequency (RF) signals, similar to those used by cell phones, back to receiving and recording equipment. We’ve all seen movies where the cops are hiding out in a “carpet cleaning” van filled with computers and headsets parked just outside a villain’s home, but these new devices are capable of sending signals as far as five miles away. Others have data storage built in, such as an SD style card commonly used by digital cameras. These devices are planted and picked up at a later date. Detection equipment is equally compact and sophisticated which allows you to protect yourself where ever you may go. Some kits carried on your key chain can help you locate hidden camera lenses and RF signals from video/audio bugs. They are easy to use and with the touch of a button you can secure your location enabling you to discuss your business or try on those clothes in the fitting rooms with piece of mind that you aren’t being monitored. If a bug is present they will silently alert you with vibrations.

If you are concerned you are being targeted for surveillance never discuss your business in public places where anyone can be listening. To check an area use both a bug detector and conduct a physical inspection of as well, since some devices may operate at extremely low power levels. Avoid using a cordless or cell phone to make calls as these can be easily picked up. Landlines can be secured using a special device that checks for wiretaps. If bugs are bugging you consider turning to a professional electronics countermeasure (ECM) security company to conduct a full sweep of your house or office.

About the Author: Mike Ward is the owner and operator of Protection Depot, a leading online provider of mini security cameras and surveillance cameras. For more information about security cameras, please visit Protection Depot.

Fake Security Cameras

Protecting your property whether it is a home, estate, or business takes careful consideration. A visible security system is a proven deterrent for thieves and vandals out to commit a crime. Often these common criminals are looking for an easy low risk hit and will move on to other areas once they notice your area is under surveillance. While this doesn’t eliminate a crime it can protect you. Security cameras can provide visuals of the suspects which police can act on immediately. This greatly increases their chances of catching the perpetrators. Security systems are relatively simple to setup and customize to whatever your needs may be. Most systems include motion sensors, lights, mini security cameras, and a digital video recording station. While the cost of security systems has come down in recent years they are still a sizeable yet worthwhile investment. The piece of mind knowing your possessions are being looked after is priceless.

If you are not ready to setup a full fledged security system or it simply isn’t feasible based on your needs consider implementing a few fake security cameras. Fake cameras area essentially an actual security camera or camera housing that isn’t connected to any form of monitoring system. They have the exact appearance of a real security camera and are available in a variety of sizes and styles. Expect to pay between $10 and $30 dollars per unit. They can be installed in a few minutes and provide the same deterrent factor of a real security system, since thieves won’t know the difference. A convincing camera will include blinking LED’s, realistic cables, and an indoor or outdoor housing. More advanced cameras have automatic pan and tilt functions to give the appearance they are scanning an area. Some of these include motion sensors coupled with tracking capabilities. A static camera suddenly panning and tracking an approaching person is enough to send any potential threat packing on their way.

Dummy security cameras may be a great choice for more remote areas of your property or business, such as a parking lot or fenced in supply yard. Blinking LED’s will ensure the camera is noticed. You can also bolster the presence of an existing system. Dummy cams can be upgraded at later date with little difficulty. Fake surveillance cameras create the illusion of a fully functional security system. The bottom line is a crook simply won’t be able to tell if the system is real or not, and most likely won’t even question it.

About the Author: Mike Ward is the owner and operator of Protection Depot, a leading online provider of mini security cameras and surveillance cameras. For more information about security cameras, please visit Protection Depot.

Crack Down on Crime with CCTV

Security cameras have played a significant role in preventing crime and catching criminals. Before security cameras, police had to rely on witness’s description of the perpetrator where a crime had been committed. Eye witness accounts can vary greatly among several people who were present at the same event. Eye witness testimonies must be accompanied by other substantial or objective evidence to hold up in court. Since the development of closed circuit television (CCTV) in 1942 many advances in technology have made CCTV invaluable in the fight against crime. Mini security cameras are difficult to spot and catch criminals when they aren’t aware they are being watched. Recent studies show that video surveillance is the number one deterrent for criminals.

CCTV is the use of video security cameras to relay a signal to a specific or limited set of monitors. The first CCTV system was designed and installed by German scientist Walter Bruch in 1942. His system was used to record and observe the launch of V-2 rockets. Closed circuit television is very useful at launch sites because the cameras are able to be in closer proximity to the rockets than a human while providing a recording of the event that can be reviewed as often as needed.

Now the use of CCTV can be found almost anywhere. It is inexpensive enough to be used in home security systems. There are at least 13 U.S. cities in which law enforcement officials are operating or implementing CCTV video surveillance as a way to prevent crime and promote public safety. In some cities, the videos are passively recorded and played back at certain intervals, while other cities actively monitor the surveillance images. In some states school districts are experimenting with CCTV video surveillance as a principal security measure to reduce campus violence and prevent crimes such as theft and graffiti. According to a 1996 survey of secondary school administrators conducted by the American Society for Industrial Security, schools which use either passive or active CCTV surveillance systems, contend that the systems have contributed to reduced property crimes such as break-ins, theft, and vandalism. The popularity of CCTV video surveillance as a crime prevention tool is an important component of the re-emergence of downtown entertainment and commercial business districts. Business partnerships composed of retailers and various agencies of local governments have been created in cities such as Baltimore, Tampa Bay, and Memphis to provide the funding capital for CCTV video surveillance crime prevention projects. Community-oriented policing programs help monitor the surveillance systems and respond to criminal activity.


About the Author: Mike Ward is the owner and operator of Protection Depot, a leading online provider of mini security cameras and security cameras. For more information about security cameras, please visit Protection Depot.

Bullet Security Cameras

Security Cameras, weather they are for home, business, or even public areas, come in so many different shapes and sizes. Each shape and type of surveillance camera is designed to work best under certain conditions, and bullet cameras are just one of many types of cameras used for surveillance. However, some of their unique features make them excellent hidden cameras, indoor and outdoor cameras, while still very easily mounted and monitored.

Bullet cameras range greatly in size, everything from 3.5 to 12 mm lenses and everything in between. They are designed to be compact and easily concealed while still providing excellent footage. A mid range bullet camera might provide 420 lines of resolution or even 550 lines. This is an amazing amount of clarity and resolution from such a small device. Not only that, but most bullet cameras actually shoot in color as well, providing the viewer with a clearer representation of the subjects.

Most bullet security cameras are also considered to be mini CCTV cameras. CCTV, or closed-circuit television, basically describes the ability of the cameras to transmit a signal to a specific or limited set of monitors. In other words, the signal coming from these cameras is not an open signal like television broadcasting stations that can be tuned in. This is ideal for a security situation to prevent the wrong people from gaining access to the broadcast. The first CCTV systems were installed in 1942 and were used to observe the launch of V2-rockets, and these systems are still used on launch sites today, but their relevance to security and surveillance has broadened their use considerably.

Another fantastic thing about bullet cameras is that most of them are designed to be weatherproof, meaning they can withstand the brutality of natural elements such as wind and rain. This is an important feature, enabling the versatility of indoor or outdoor use. Bullet cameras are easily mounted, and once placed, they should remain well protected and operational for quite some time. Electronics are not traditionally mixable with harsher temperatures or moisture, so it is important that bullet cameras have special exteriors that protect them from the elements so that a security system is not compromised by bad weather.

The affordability of bullet style cameras today is also astounding. Some models may go for as low as seventy dollars on up to a couple of hundred, but in comparison to older technology that was less versatile, these cameras have become extremely inexpensive and very accessible to the general public.

About the Author: Mike Ward is the owner and operator of Protection Depot, a leading online supplier of hidden cameras and mini security cameras. For more information about security cameras, please visit Protection Depot.

Hiding Hidden Cameras

Hidden cameras for both security and monitoring are used in businesses and homes alike, and they have become increasingly popular due to their affordability. However, a “hidden camera” is somewhat obsolete if it is easily spotted, which is why effective placement is one of the most important parts of installation. Finding the right places in a home can be difficult, so here are some helpful ideas for making your hidden camera invisible.

The living area is the first place most people want to install a hidden camera. This is often because it is the most trafficked area of the house, and it is a likely place for a babysitter to reside while taking care of children. Most living rooms provide an endless number of perfect hiding places. Entertainment centers are usually a safe bet for starters. Since there are already a number of electronic devices, most people will right off a camera as another device. For this hiding spot, you must consider the size and look of the camera. For a wider angle, consider using a mini security camera or bullet camera that is barely visible at a distance and mounted on a curtain rod. Most people spend very little time inspecting curtain rods. Bookshelves are also great places for cameras, in fact some hidden cameras even come in the shape of a book to blend in with the rest of your collection. This is obviously a very specialized camera form, but there are a number of such forms to choose from. Cameras might also appear to be objects like mirrors, clocks, cigarette lighters, and more. These everyday objects are very common and thus virtually undetectable.

Most of these suggestions also work very well in other areas of a home, along with cameras placed in light switches and flowerpots. These often provide excellent wide-angle views of rooms and hallways. If you are looking to install hidden cameras in bedrooms or child play areas, here are a few more considerations. A nightstand is a great place to place a clock shaped camera, and a personal computer station is a similar scenario to that of an entertainment center. If you are trying to look after your children, many hidden cameras can actually be put inside of a stuffed animal, a toy car, or even in a mobile that hovers above a baby’s crib. However, it is important to pick a toy or object that is not regularly used to avoid losing a nice view of the room. Many parents find these types of hidden cameras extremely settling when hiring a new babysitter or just keeping an eye on their kids.

There are countless types and shapes of hidden and mini cameras, so it is important to strategize about the most inconspicuous places to hide a camera in your particular environment. This strategizing will help determine what type of camera you should purchase. If you already have a camera, consider some of the hiding spots first suggested, because a poorly placed hidden camera is really not a hidden camera at all.

About the Author: Mike Ward is the owner and operator of Protection Depot, a leading online supplier of hidden cameras and mini security cameras. For more information about security cameras, please visit Protection Depot.

Home Security Cameras: Not Just a Fad

The popularity of security cameras for surveillance in the private home has steadily increased over the past decades, exploding in the last ten years. Homeowners are looking to protect their homes and families while also having the option of keeping an eye on kids or animals that might be home alone. Some people are even investing for the purposes of smooth driveway entrances or front door intercoms. Though it has been popular for some time amongst executives and politicians, the majority of security camera owners today are purchasing and installing their own cameras for $100 to $500, and even putting in entire systems in the low thousands. They are then using their home computers or televisions for monitoring. But whatever the budget or purpose, home security cameras will continue increasing in popularity as the technology becomes more affordable and the usability more simple. Video surveillance has been a fascination of humans for more than fifty years, and these technological advancements will only continue to enhance that interest.

Video monitoring has long been a useful resource for various purposes. CCTV, or “Closed Circuit Television” describes any video signal that is transmitted to a specific set of monitors or monitoring system. The fist CCTV was actually used to observe the launch of V2 rockets in Germany in 1942. Since then, video surveillance has flourished in many industries, but for obvious reasons the security industry was especially interested. Banking institutions were among the first to implement security cameras for both evidentiary and theft preventative purposes. Their effectiveness has been astounding, reducing the number of bank robberies two one tenth of their previous numbers almost over night. As a result, security cameras are now used in office buildings, jails and prisons, schools, museums, retail shops, traffic lights, and now, commonly in homes.

Further development has improved the effectiveness of security cameras by making them much smaller than they once were. Mini security cameras can be hidden from view so that individuals are unaware of their surveillance. Though this has obvious benefits for retail situations, they are also very popular in home settings. This is an easy way to keep a watch on teenagers, see who is at the door, and identify a burglar or vandal with a close up view.

This is only the beginning of home security cameras. There are too many benefits of surveillance for it to go out of style. In fact, as the technology continues to increase, home security cameras will probably become standard for every home, installed upon construction. Even now, it is inexpensive and simple enough for almost anyone to purchase their own camera system and throw up a few more eyes around the house.

About the Author: Mike Ward is the owner and operator of Protection Depot, a leading online supplier of home security cameras and mini security cameras. For more information about security cameras, please visit Protection Depot.

The 24 hour Watch Dog

In an age of necessary security, many people are turning to security cameras for their home protection. Though Fido might be a pretty good watch dog, he does have his limitations including the need to sleep. Home security cameras offer 24 hour surveillance to those that are looking for better ways to protect their loved ones. Not only do security cameras make it more likely for thieves or vandals to leave sooner or possibly avoid your home all together, they also serve as an excellent deterrent. Though they may have a different effect than Fido’s characteristic bark, they are more likely to prevent a break in, and in the event of a break in you will have recorded evidence of their every move. Just like picking out the right dog for you, there are a plethora of security camera options. Take care to choose the best surveillance for your living situation.

Some homeowners prefer to mount decoy cameras, or fake cameras. Though these do not give the owner the capability of recording or monitoring what is going on at his or her home, they do fulfill the deterrent purpose of home security cameras, possibly replacing that old “Beware of Dog” sign. A thief has no way of knowing if a camera is actually operational because of elaborate security camera replicas for sale that can fool anyone. The idea of a security camera is very unsettling to a criminal as they consider that their movements are monitored and realize they will probably be confronted. This is the last thing that most thieves want to experience.

Though fake cameras are a more affordable theft deterrent, real security cameras provide actual footage at various angles around and/or inside the home. Cameras can be purchased with a variety of options such as color views or black and white. A color view might be more helpful in determining the identity of a robber while black and white views provide the contrast necessary to detect movement more sharply. Choosing a wireless or hardwired system and choosing resolutions are a few of many other options to consider, but beyond settling on the right type of security camera system, accurate placement is just as important. All entry points of the home should be in the view of a camera, and it should be positioned in such a way that the face of anyone entering your home is easily identified. This is useful for both security purposes as well as social ones. It is good to be able to see the face of someone knocking at your door. It is like a version of caller ID for house visitors. When placing security cameras in a home’s interior, hallways are excellent choices. An intruder will quite possibly utilize the hallway space more than once during their visit. Of course, any room that contains valuables is also a likely candidate for a security camera.

With home security cameras, you can have 24 hour surveillance protecting the things you value most, from people to possessions. There is no need to live in fear or to train your dog to dislike visitors when you have another constant look out. Take a look at some security cameras for your home today. You will be amazed at how inexpensive such effective security has become.

About the Author: Mike Ward is the owner and operator of Protection Depot, a leading online supplier of home security cameras and mini security cameras. For more information about security cameras, please visit Protection Depot.

Hidden or Mini Security Cameras

Miniature security cameras are not only easy to hide, but they are often less expensive than larger devices. Some mini cameras are as small as only several millimeters and thus are difficult to detect. The purpose of these devices is somewhat different from traditional security cameras. In a traditional sense, security cameras are supposed to be noticed and serve as a deterrent as well as a look out and evidence recorder. Hidden cameras serve a slightly different purpose in areas that need increased security or in situations in which those on video should not know they are being watched or recorded.

For security purposes, it is sometimes advantages for the public to be unaware of certain cameras. For example, in a bank robbery situation, the robber might be aware of the large mounted cameras overhead, and by carefully avoiding their view they may overlook a mini security camera staring them strait in the face. This technique transcends multiple business situations such as convenient stores, fast food restaurants, and jewelry stores, and is just one way that a business owner can be smarter than the thief.

In an office or employment environment, it is often worth keeping employees under surveillance, especially when employees are left unattended. This allows a manager or owner to evaluate performances of employees when they are not being supervised. This can be an invaluable tool for increasing the productivity of individuals and businesses overall.

Mini cameras are also handy gadgets to have around the house if you have little ones or a sneaky teenager, but they are also extremely valuable for home security. Again, visible security will serve as a great deterrent, but in the event that a burglary attempt is made, a mini security camera is much more likely to pull through with some hard evidence.

There are a number of options and features for mini cameras such as special software, wired or wireless video transfer, black/white or color, various resolutions, night vision, dome or bullet style, and even infrared. It is important to choose a camera that fits the specific security needs of a particular space. The majority of mini security cameras have a 3.6 mm or 6mm pinhole lens which give a 65 to 85 degree viewing area. Resolutions can range from 330 lines to 480 lines.

Mini security cameras offer recorded evidence, real-time monitoring, a decrease in losses due to theft, employee surveillance, child monitoring, as well as a number of uses for research and development. As you browse various security cameras, determine your security needs, based on the type and intensity of surveillance that will provide the right effect. Perhaps a mini security camera is just the thing you have been looking for.

About the Author: Mike Ward is the owner and operator of Protection Depot, a leading online supplier of hidden cameras and mini security cameras. For more information about security cameras, please visit Protection Depot.

Home Security Cameras

Every eight seconds in the residential United States, a home burglary takes place, and the simple fact remains that every home is a possible target. For this reason, home security cameras are increasing in popularity across the country. Security cameras are a great way for the general public to protect their homes, businesses, and loved ones. Of course everyone has seen the movies depicting the grossly rich with their video surveillance, which is why most people do not realize how affordable it has become. Like almost every area of the technology industry, cameras with surveillance capabilities have fallen in price dramatically, making home surveillance real and viable option.

Home security cameras provide insight into suspicious activity around the perimeter of your home. Not only does video surveillance act as a common burglar deterrent, it can help you keep an eye on children, see who’s at the door, or identify criminals who have actually committed a crime against your household. To choose the best security system for your particular household, it is important to take a moment to determine your surveillance needs in order to choose the best system functions and features.

The number and placement of cameras are the most important factors to consider. The number of cameras you purchase will directly impact which recording device you will need to support them. Be sure that you have carefully considered your perimeter and determined the best places for camera installation. Careful planning will save you plenty of time and money later on. Once you have determined camera arrangement, you might them proceed by choosing the cameras themselves. When it comes to home security, the price of particular surveillance systems should not be the deciding factor. Of course everyone has a budget, but if you determine that you can only afford very low quality equipment, you may be better off purchasing some decoys, or fake cameras. If you are planning to go through the trouble and spend the money on home security cameras, then you should not be afraid to purchase high quality equipment.

If you only need two or three cameras, there are many simple systems available that allow you to view captured footage through your TV and even record through your home VCR. More sophisticated systems send feeds through the Internet so they can be viewed form any computer. The important part of this decision is making sure you choose a system that will actually be used. If you are the type of person that will grow lazy and probably not use a VCR system, then it might be worth the extra money to watch your camera feeds online. Again, it depends on what it is you are trying to accomplish by purchasing a home security camera system.

Not only do security cameras bring some peace of mind to any home, they can also increase the value of your home. Because the interest in home surveillance is increasing rapidly, many homebuyers are looking for security camera systems in prospective homes, and a quality system that is easy to use is a valuable commodity. Home security cameras help to deter burglary, keep an eye on the kids, create a sense of security, and even add a little to value of your home. Why would anyone not consider installing home surveillance?

About the Author: Mike Ward is the owner and operator of Protection Depot, a leading online supplier of home security cameras and mini security cameras. For more information about security cameras, please visit Protection Depot.