Incidents such as the much-publicized cases of nannies abusing children and being caught on hidden security cameras have driven the sales of hidden security cameras for the home in an upward spiral. While any recommendation for using hidden security cameras for surveillance comes with the warning to check your local laws, there are many uses for covert surveillance cameras in both homes and businesses.
Current technology allows for extremely small cameras that need no more than a pinhole for a lens. Hidden security cameras can be concealed in an amazing variety of objects - from clock radios to teddy bears. Commonly referred to as ‘nanny cams', they're especially popular with homeowners who want to see what goes on in their absence. Whether the intent is to check up on the babysitter, or catch the neighborhood teens in the act of vandalizing your home, hidden security cameras can be the solution.
Hide-it-yourself Hidden Security Cameras
One of the least expensive options for in hidden security cameras is a ‘hide-it-yourself' camera. Available in both wireless and wired versions, these little security cameras are small enough to be hidden just about anywhere. Simply choose a spot to place your camera, choose an item that isn't likely to be moved or disturbed, and mount your security camera in it. You can use a hollowed out book on a bookshelf, a stuffed animal in a child's room or a decorative plaque on a wall in any room. Hide-it-yourself hidden security cameras range in price from $30 to $800, though the average range is in the $100-$200 area. Most cameras are no more than an inch square - the size of a postage stamp. To help with the logistics of wiring a camera that requires cables, there are wireless transceivers available for about $100 that will ‘turn any device into a wireless device'.
Pre-hidden Hidden Security Cameras
Would you think twice at seeing a baby monitor system in an infant's room? How about computer speakers beside a PC? Would you expect a television to be watching you? Those are among the many items that are sold with a hidden security camera installed. Most are available in wired and wireless versions to suit your needs best, and the prices range from £50 for something as simple as a wall clock with a hidden security camera to several hundred pounds for a 25” television with included VCR.
Body-worn Hidden Security Cameras
Before deciding to use a body-worn security camera, be aware that you may be violating the laws of your city or state. Check with local authorities for details. If, however, you have reason to record transactions or meetings covertly, there are nearly as many choices for hidden security cameras in commonly worn items as there are in pre-hidden security cameras. You can choose from baseball hats that conceal hidden security cameras, a necktie (if he's wearing the red one, you're in trouble!), even a mini hidden security camera in a shirt button. Prices range from £90 for a hip pack with hidden security camera to £500 for a pen or a cell phone with a 1.2 GHz color wireless camera.