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.

Three Security Cameras for Your Business

As a small business owner security and safety are top priorities when it comes to your employees and your investment. Choosing the right security camera will help to ensure those priorities are met. Here are three styles of security cameras that might be appropriate for your business.

Box style cameras have long been a staple of the security industry. This type of camera affords the most versatility when choosing a lens. They use a C/CS type lens mount (typical lens used for CCTV), which makes it quick and easy to change the lens for different fields of view. Field of View (FOV) is the maximum viewed image (area covered) a lens sees and displays on your TV or monitor. They can also be equipped with a number of varifocal lenses. Varifocal lenses allow you to change the focal length or field of view to accommodate a variety of situations. For outdoor use they will require a weatherproof housing. Box style security cameras are excellent for indoor and low light settings. Many come equipped with built in microphones for audio surveillance as well.

The most popular design on the market today is the bullet security camera. These cameras consist of long tubes with a cylinder-shaped lens, which give it an appearance similar to a bullet. Bullet style security cameras are well suited for situations where they are out of reach and discretion is more important than range. A bullet security camera will typically feature a fixed or varifocal lens that allows you to make out facial features as far away as 35 feet, and provides a wide angle of view. They are available in weather resistant casing which makes it a great outdoor surveillance camera. Top end models offer high quality digital charge-coupled devices (CCD) that will switch from color in daylight conditions to black & white in low light.

Dome security cameras are a great choice in most indoor settings with their compact size and protected lenses. Two main advantages of dome cameras are their unobtrusive appearance and flexible mobility; however they may not function as well in low light situations. They come in various resolutions with a choice of color or black and white display. Since the camera is obscured in the dome it is impossible to tell where the camera is looking, which is perfect for any situation many people may be congregating.
The best surveillance systems will utilize various types of cameras based on particular strengths and combine them with top of the line video display, digital video and audio recorders.

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