view basketWhat Does The Law Say About Home Security?
CCTV represents the ultimate in a home security solution, acting not only as a deterrent for any potential burglar or vandal, but also as an important source of evidence should the worst happen. CCTV remains a controversial security measure, however, and its improper usage could do more than just annoy the neighbours, and could potentially put you on the wrong side of the law. So, what exactly are the legal requirements for CCTV systems?
In line with the Data Protection Act of 1998 if you’re using CCTV on behalf of an organisation, you will need to register with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner. If on the other hand you are using CCTV for home security then you will most likely be exempt from the registration process, specifically the Data Protection Act states “personal data processed by an individual only for the purposes of that individual’s personal, family or household affairs (including recreational purposes) are exempt from the data protection principles and the provisions of Parts II and III.”
This apparent leniency in the law for home CCTV users is should be taken with a pinch of salt however, and you should still be conscientious when positioning your CCTV systems. Basically, you should keep the field of view to within your property, as indirectly or directly filming your neighbours by be seen as an infringement of their human rights, ironically maybe even landing you in court.
Tags: cctv systems, home security, laws of CCTV, security cameras