Security Cameras and Video Surveillance
What are security cameras?
Monitoring, recording and remote-transmission systems are some ways to monitor areas through a CCTV circuit, the use of which is constantly increasing. Video surveillance is one of the most important and effective prevention measures. Security cameras are the main deterrent against burglaries, as investigations have shown that more than 30% of robbers do not break into homes with cameras.
How do they work?
The installation of a closed security circuit (security cameras, recorder) in an area allows us to monitor it whenever we want and from any remote point. We can refer to the records saved on our recorder to observe suspicious behaviors and prevent a possible burglary. In addition, the presence of cameras is a major deterrent to burglary, as the recording of images is saved and can lead to easy and immediate identification of the burglar by the Authorities.
What more do cameras offer than an alarm?
We install cameras so that any burglary incidents are recorded. We install cameras to check whether our staff arrives on time. We install cameras to resolve a misunderstanding about the change given to a customer at the checkout point.
What are their capabilities?
New technologies in CCTV enable on-site or remote monitoring of image, audio and data management with automatic digital event recording in digital files. They create conditions of connecting to the security system, which has the ability to function as a single system so that an alert is sent in the event of an incident, and to the communication system for immediate notification or remote monitoring in homes, stores, large commercial and industrial facilities, gas stations fuel sales, parking lots etc.
What do I need to know before installing a video surveillance system?
Security cameras are the best way to protect your life and property. On the other hand, when cameras are in public places and are filming people, this can affect people’s psychology and behavior. Therefore, it is imperative to not abuse the placement of video surveillance and to follow the legislation on personal data set by public Authorities.
What is provided by the Authorities?
In order to set regulations on the use of video-surveillance systems for the protection of persons and goods, the Authorities have issued Directive 1/2011. Before installing a video-surveillance system, you need to be aware of: The conditions that must be met for cameras, i.e. where they are allowed to be placed, what range they can have, etc. and other obligations, such as placing a sign warning that the area is being videotaped..
What is the current legislation on the use of cameras in private and public spaces in particular?
As far as personal data protection is concerned, legislation is now quite strict, so you need to be aware of all the conditions you have to comply with and the obligations applying to setting up home and professional video-surveillance systems.
Cameras in a detached house:
If the cameras only record your own premises, then there are no relevant indications from the legislation. However, it is forbidden to videotape outdoor public spaces, such as streets.
Cameras in an block of flats:
Apartment residents are required to vote on the decision to install a video surveillance system in common areas of their block of flats. If the cameras are to record only your own premises inside the apartment, then the legislation on personal data does not apply. If you want to install a camera that monitors the area surrounding your front door, then it should monitor only the necessary space, without recording image or sound, and you should also have the approval of the tenants of the same floor.
Cameras in stores:
Cameras should be placed at entry and exit points, warehouses, parking lots and checkout points but it is not allowed to record areas of dining, entertainment and general areas where customers come and go.
Cameras in schools:
Special care must be taken, as the conditions set by law are strict. In particular, such cameras must be approved by the school administration, staff and parents' association. Also, the system must not operate during school hours, and all data must be deleted the next working day.
Cameras in public places:
They may only be placed by public authorities for specific purposes and under specific conditions.
What is a visual confirmation service?
When there is a violation, and consequently an alarm in the area, operators gain remote visual contact with the area via the Video Verification service, along with the alarm signal. Operators monitor the incident as it happens, managing to: Verify the alarm. Make a valid, direct and confirmed evaluation. Respond faster by the police and the owners. Operators watch the recording in real time, and can instantly assess the incident and act accordingly. In other words, they can understand whether a violation is false, for example due to misuse, weather conditions, technical fault etc, or there is a real threat, an armed robbery or vandalism while also knowing the exact number of perpetrators, their entry point and their movements!
Will the operator from the Alarm Signal Reception Center be able to monitor my premises continuously?
No need to worry! Image is received only by an armed alarm system or under authorization and approval, and with the responsibility of the customer, while no one can activate the cameras without you being aware of it.
Can I record the incident?
Of course, there may be a parallel recording of the event in the system's DVR, as it is fully compatible with ALL DVRs on the market.
How can I access this service?
First of all, there should be an alarm system installed that is connected to Spartan Security's 24-hour alarm signal reception center. Obviously there should also be a digital CCTV image recording and transmission system supported by UPS, and finally a stable internet connection.
Can I have picture on my computer or mobile phone?
Certainly! You will be able to cover both indoor and outdoor premises using an application for smartphones or tablets.