Hidden Camera Laws

The importance and benefits of using hidden cameras for security purposes is well known to all. However, the fact that they are “hidden”, thereby not letting people know the fact that they are being watched, makes the application of this technology a controversial issue. Some might even go as far to say that if people knew they were being monitored many crimes like shoplifting wouldn’t happen in the first place. Also, the fact that hidden cameras are sometimes used by miscreants to invade other people’s privacy doesn’t help matters either.

It is perhaps because of these reasons that laws related to hidden cameras aren’t very comprehensive and vary from state to state. So if you are planning on installing or using a hidden camera system in your home or workplace, then it would be wise to understand the laws relating to their use in your state so that you don’t face any legal problems or charges in the future when and if anyone discovers and/or takes offense to the truth that you were operating a hidden video surveillance system.

As it stands, the installation or operation of covert cameras is prohibited in only thirteen states of the United States of America. However, even in these thirteen states, the existing laws specifically prohibit the use or installation of surveillance equipment in those places where people reserve the right to expect a reasonable amount of privacy such as locker rooms, bathroom, bedrooms, dressing rooms etc.

In fact, in many states, footage of crime captured on tape via hidden camera is admissible in court as evidence! At the same time, it’s also true that in several states, prior consent from individuals being filmed isn’t even necessary, whereas in quite a few others, consent is obligatory, at least as far as letting people know that they are being watched is concerned.

Thus, from the above, it’s obvious that there is a lack of stringent and uniform laws covering the use and installation of hidden cameras. This is why it would be a prudent decision to educate yourself about the specific laws governing your region by consulting your local law enforcement agencies. You can also read up about the laws pertaining to secret surveillance in your area on the internet

And while we are on the topic of the legality of hidden cameras, another thing you should know in this regard is that it is considered illegal to record speech without the consent of all the parties involved in the states of Connecticut, California, Florida, Delaware, Illinois, Hawaii, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Nevada, Montana, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Washington, Oregon and Maryland.

Thus to conclude, safeguard yourself against possible future legal costs by doing your homework well in advance with regard to what you are legally allowed to do with hidden cameras in your state and where you need the draw the line between necessary surveillance and invasion of privacy!

Eric Jensen is a former private investigator and surveillance camera installer. He has over 20 years of field experience in the industry. Get more information regarding hidden