People have always been enamored with spy camera, hidden camera and how they’ve been utilized for surveillance and monitoring the movements of wise guys in several action flicks and undercover-cop shows. There are some things truly exciting about the undeniable fact of hidden spy cameras camouflaged as normal day to day objects that stirs the imagination of many and a substantial number would actually need to own one.
If you’re planning of purchasing a set or two of spy camera gear for whatever purpose you’ll have, or planning in engaging into this very exciting and profitable business of selling spy camera stuff, you ought to be privy to the related legal issues, laws and limitations with the use and possession of spy cameras. First, gain some basic experience of what spy cameras are and how it’s possible for you to use them in various applications.
A brief outline of Spy Cameras and Their Applications
A spy camera is basically a camera or video capturing device that is hid from view and utilized for surveillance or recording purposes.
For law enforcement agencies, spy cameras are utilized for the surveillance of suspected criminal activities so as to control and monitor movements and take fast should threats arise that could put ordinary citizens like you at risk.
Most individuals on the other hand make use of spy cameras to observe the movements of someone : a cheating spouse perhaps ; a naughty neighbor that borrows things without your understanding ; or checking out on how your child’s babysitter acts while you are away. This is usually done without the knowledge or appreciation of the monitored subject about the presence of your spy camera.
Since concealment is what makes the spy camera a powerful surveillance tool, these gadgets can come in various forms and appearance that may make you wonder how an allegedly inconspicuous object can have a spy camera hidden inside.
* A spy camera hidden in an air cleanser or air fresher
* A spy camera soundly concealed away in the speakers of a home sound system
* A clock with a hidden camera within
* A pen that not only rights but takes videos and photos as well
* Concealed cameras hidden beneath the folds of clothing like jackets or ties
* And a heap more!
Spy cameras can come in wired or wireless form. Others have inbuilt recording facilities making them effective stand alone surveillance devices. You can’t say that one type can be better than another as their efficacy will rely on what application or purpose you intend to utilize them.
Laws regarding the ownership and usage of Hidden Spy Cameras.
Exciting as using these spy devices can be, there are particular rules and laws that rule spy cameras for the owner and the seller. If you want to buy or sell one, you need to first make the initial step of knowing the local laws about the usage of spy cameras. Sellers should also know the laws in the country or region of your intended clients.
In the US, there are firm guidelines and laws re invasion of privacy, particularly in areas where privacy is expected like in bedrooms, lockers, bathrooms, dressing rooms and other extremely private areas. Thirteen states have firm laws about unauthorized installation of spy cameras on non-public places, while others restrict its use if the purpose would be to view folks in partial or full nudity. This comprises the installation of devices for observing, recording, snapping or overhearing folks without their permission.
Aside from limitations on the use and installing of spy cameras, you also should be aware of the range of frequencies your spy camera would be broadcasting in, as some states and regions have precise laws referring to which frequencies are allowable. The 2.4 GHz range is a popular and license free frequency that may be used in the US and Europe, while spy cameras in the 1.2 GHz range will require licenses in Great Britain and explicit areas in Europe.
Tips for Entrepreneurs Selling Spy Cameras and Related Spy Gear
If you are planning to sell spy cameras online or in a physical store, you should be aware about the laws and regulations relating to the areas and localities of your intended clientele. If feasible, make this information available for your clients, but do it in a very factual way and don’t frighten them away with nerve-wracking warnings and other similar pronouncements.
Except for that, you should be prepared to chuck in a disclaimer that states that though you have provided whatever info available to them, it still is their responsibility to check, know and obey the rules and laws in their areas concerning the ownership and use of spy cameras. This is for your own protection and theirs also.