April 2024 – Doorbell Cameras: A Security Measure or an Invasion of Privacy?

Doorbell cameras are popular with homeowners looking to add extra security to their homes. If nothing else, they can serve as a deterrent to anyone looking to break in or otherwise damage your property.

These devices have other advantages, too. Their live surveillance feature eliminates the need for you to screen hours of video to see what was happening while you were away or asleep. Motion triggered alerts allow you to see what is going on in real time. This way, you can:

• Check in on your house while you’re away.
• Stop thieves from taking packages from your porch.
• Screen people coming to your door before opening it.

But, there are also disadvantages:

• Frequent notifications from these devices can increase anxiety about safety for some people.
• False notifications can lead other people to become dismissive of the alerts.
• Unreliable internet connections can make these devices undependable, especially in areas with spotty internet service or during power outages.
• Security flaws in their software make these devices vulnerable to being hacked. Hackers can not only gain access to the doorbell’s camera and voice controls, but also to your Wi-Fi and all internet-connected devices.

Violation of privacy is another major concern when it comes to doorbell cameras. Depending on how it is positioned, your video doorbell can capture the comings and goings of your neighbors without their consent. To avoid being accused of invasion of privacy, make sure your video doorbell and other outdoor security cameras are positioned in such a way that minimizes intrusion into your neighbors’ private locations, like their front door or backyard. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself and comply with local privacy regulations.

When exercising your right to secure your property remember not to infringe on your neighbors’ rights to privacy.