From CCTV to ALPR, video camera technology has many uses in modern day security. Here are just some of the security benefits of video cameras.
Threat detection
Probably the most popular and useful way to use security cameras is to detect threats. By setting up surveillance camera systems, it’s possible to monitor areas for criminal activity. This includes detecting intruders, theft, vandalism or other acts of abuse.
Using cameras to detect threats typically requires hiring individuals to watch these cameras at all times – which isn’t feasible in some cases. That said, modern AI tools are being developed that can be trained to detect certain threats and send alerts, which may eventually eliminate the need for human surveillance.
Authentication
Video cameras can be used to authenticate individuals when accessing certain areas, devices or computer systems. While it’s possible to use video doorbells that allow other humans to authenticate visitors, there are now various automated forms of access control that are possible using video cameras.
A popular example is FRT (facial recognition technology). By scanning a person’s facial features, video cameras can be used to automatically grant access to devices or areas. Such technology is most commonly used as a form of multi-factor authentication alongside passwords or passcodes on devices like smartphones.
ALPR (automatic license plate recognition) is another form of automated authentication using a video camera. In this case, a camera scans a vehicle’s license plate to determine whether the vehicle is authorised to access a certain area. This technology can reduce the need for manned parking lot barriers or keycards.
Legal evidence
Another security benefit of video camera technology is providing legal evidence. Even if video cameras are not monitored 24/7, footage can be rewatched using most digital camera systems, providing visual evidence of crimes taking place.
Many workplaces use video cameras to capture legal evidence of crimes like customer theft, personal injury fraud or even employee theft. Video cameras can also be fitted to vehicles (dashcams) and used to capture legal evidence of criminal behaviour on the road and to provide proof of not being at fault during accidents (which can be useful for making insurance claims or personal injury claims).
Deterrence
An overlooked security benefit of using video cameras is their ability to simply deter crime. A well-placed camera that is clearly visible can sometimes be enough to put off intruders or would-be criminals. Some businesses even install dummy cameras just to deter crime (although, of course, real cameras are a much more secure option).
Some workers like police officers and bailiffs even use body cameras and may tell difficult people that they are being recorded on camera to encourage them to comply. Similarly, some companies install interior-facing video cameras into vehicles to encourage drivers to not use their phone or eat while driving.
Takeaways
Exploring the different security uses of video camera technology that ultimately help you to detect and prevent crime and misconduct. Understand that different forms of camera technology may need to be used for different purposes, although there are some multi-purpose cameras that can be used for everything from surveillance to access control.
