Surveillance cameras, when used strategically, provide a superior layer of preventative security and indisputable evidence when theft occurs. Traditionally, surveillance cameras served as a presence that let thieves know “big brother” was watching, often deterring them from stealing in the first place. However, thieves are wising up and learning how to outsmart the system which has resulted in the increasingly difficult task of catching them in action.

One way to build a stronger surveillance system within your business is to use the traditional surveillance camera in tandem with covert or hidden cameras. As a first level of defense the traditional security camera will deter a person who is less motivated to steal and will catch a clumsy criminal. Surveillance cameras now come with advanced features, many of which give you the option of viewing video footage wirelessly from any location. Additional features may include infrared technology which helps provide proper night surveillance or dome shaped camera designs which are difficult to tamper with.

Covert cameras act as a second layer of defense by covering blind spots, and catching more finely tuned and planned out crimes, especially those from within the business. Covert cameras allow business owners to keep an eye on employees without their knowledge and are designed to fit seamlessly into any setting. Hidden cameras, especially self contained cameras (an object with the recording device built in- no wires, transmitters or receivers) are very difficult to detect, even for the seasoned thief. A cleverly placed wall clock, sprinkler head, or even a minute screw head hidden camera could provide a valuable record of a cash register sleight of hand. By the same token, an exit sign hidden camera could provide surveillance in a stock room or catch valuable merchandise camouflaged with the trash leaving the store.

With the many surveillance devices on the market, the possibilities for combining traditional cameras with non-traditional covert cameras for effective video surveillance are seemingly endless.