In the last two decades, surveillance technology has undergone a remarkable transformation, becoming significantly more advanced and considerably more affordable and accessible to the general public. CCTV cameras, for instance, were not nearly as capable twenty years ago as they are today.
During the first four months of 2023, 11,271 cases of burglary, 1,133 cases of theft, 39,673 cases of vehicle theft, and 7,997 cases of cattle theft were registered in the province of Panjab, as per official data.
In Pakistan, people are using security cameras to keep their homes and businesses safe. Burglars stay away from places with visible cameras and instead go for easier targets. So, whether for a house or a business, CCTV cameras have become necessary for many people who want to feel safer and more secure.
Benefits of Installing Home Security Cameras
When you install home security cameras, you are taking a smart step to make your home safer. Here is why.
Deters Crime
The presence of a camera can make a housebreaker think twice before trying to break into your home. Security cameras are a significant deterrent for crimes against your family and property.
Protects Your Property and Valuables
We all know stories of thieves stealing valuable items. CCTV systems, especially alarm systems, can significantly boost your home’s security. Alarms scare off thieves; if triggered, you can check your CCTV footage on your phone to see what’s happening and call the police. This helps you protect your home and valuables.
Helps Parents Keep Tabs on Kids, Elderly Parents, and Pets
Security cameras are great for keeping an eye on your loved ones and pets when you are not home. You can use the live feed to check on your kids after school, monitor elderly family members, or watch your pets.
Allows Homeowners to Monitor the Property from the Safety of Their Home
No more risking your safety to check disturbances around your property. With a security camera system, you can monitor your home’s perimeter from the inside. Just make sure there are no blind spots in your camera coverage.
Helps in the Prosecution of Criminals
If criminals break into your home, CCTV footage can help prosecute them. Good quality footage that captures faces is essential for helping the police.
Read: A Complete Home Security Guide
Benefits of CCTV Cameras for Your Business
Check out why having CCTV cameras in your business is a great idea. Let’s see how they can make things better for you.
Crime Prevention
A robust CCTV system is essential for protecting your business and site. Just like an alarm system, CCTV cameras act as a warning to criminals. They know they will be caught on camera, so they are less likely to target your business in the first place. This can help prevent things like theft, vandalism, and break-ins.
Gathering Evidence
If a crime does happen, CCTV footage can be used as evidence to help identify the criminals and solve the case. This can be crucial for returning your property and holding the criminals accountable.
Reduce Security Costs
Hiring security guards can be expensive, especially for 24/7 coverage. CCTV cameras can help you cut down on these costs by providing a way to monitor your entire property remotely. Remotely monitored CCTV systems are the equivalent of having your security guard on-site without the high costs. In many cases, the operative can discourage crime before it occurs. However, if criminal activity fails to prevent the intruder, the police will be notified immediately, followed by the nominated key holder.
Monitoring Staff Activity
CCTV cameras can help you track what’s happening in your business, even when you’re not there. This can be helpful for things like ensuring that employees are following safety procedures and working efficiently.
Employers monitor employees using CCTV for various legitimate reasons. Some lawful bases for monitoring include:
- Ensuring compliance with health and safety procedures
- Preventing crime to keep employees safe and secure
- Monitoring and improving productivity
- Preventing employee misconduct
Monitoring staff in the workplace is subject to data protection and human rights law, so as an employer, you cannot use a CCTV system to damage any mutual trust. Secondly, private data protection laws and principles regulate how you can collect and process personal data about employees. Third, it should respect employees’ right to privacy, not be too invasive, and be professional.
Resolving Disputes
If there is a disagreement between employees or customers, CCTV footage can help clear things up. This can save you time and hassle in resolving disputes.
Additional Considerations
- Make sure to inform your employees and customers that they are being monitored.
- Store CCTV footage securely and only share it with authorized individuals.
Disadvantages of CCTV Cameras
Apart from so many benefits, it comes with some disadvantages. Following are the limitations of CCTV cameras and their potential drawbacks:
Privacy Issues
Some people may object to being filmed 24/7, leading to concerns about privacy and potentially damaging trust between family members or employees. They may feel that constant surveillance implies a lack of trust.
Costly Affair
Traditional security camera systems can be expensive to install and maintain. Implementing security cameras typically requires running cables, extensive labour, and multiple products, which can add up to a significant cost. While smaller systems and wireless cameras exist, they may still come with a hefty price tag.
It can be Vulnerable
Security cameras, like any electronic device, can be vulnerable to physical damage. While outdoor cameras are designed to withstand weather conditions, they can be disabled by debris, lightning strikes, or tampering impacts. Certain conditions or events can neutralize electronic devices, including security cameras.
Limited Theft Prevention
While security cameras can deter thieves, they may not prevent determined criminals. Security camera systems should be viewed as part of a more extensive security system meant to prevent criminal activity and gather evidence. They can capture events but may not prevent theft outright.
Looking for the Right CCTV System? Read: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right CCTV System for Your Home Security
CCTV Camera Price in Pakistan
For those seeking budget-friendly options or looking to save money, OLX offers a variety of CCTV Cameras at discounted prices. OLX Pakistan provides a convenient marketplace where you can find both new and used CCTV cameras from various sellers, allowing you to find quality security cameras at a lower cost.
Conclusion
In conclusion, CCTV cameras offer numerous benefits for both home and business owners, including deterring crime, protecting property, and providing peace of mind. However, they also come with disadvantages, such as privacy concerns, cost, and vulnerability to damage. Despite these drawbacks, the advantages of CCTV cameras outweigh the disadvantages for many people, making them a valuable security tool. By weighing the pros and cons and implementing security measures, individuals and businesses can effectively enhance their security and protect their assets.
Have you considered installing CCTV at your property? Share your thoughts in the comment box below!
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