LAWS AGAINST HIDDEN CAMERAS

“A concealed camcorder, motion camera, or photographic camera (of any type)” is forbidden by the state’s disorderly behavior law. The law prohibits secretly recording someone while in a toilet, dressing room, tanning booth, or anywhere else where they have a reasonable expectation for privacy. Cal. Penal Code SS647(j),(3 ).

Courts have found that hidden video surveillance cameras that record sounds can be used as recording devices against the state’s anti-eavesdropping law. However, appellate courts differ on whether this law can be violated if the camera does not record any sound. People v. Gibbons (215 Cal. App. 3d 1204 (Cal. Ct. App. 1989) (finding out that the eavesdropping laws also protect physical communication such as sexual intercourse, regardless of whether the sound has been recorded); People v. Drennan 84 Cal. App. 4th 1349 (Cal. Ct. App. 2000) (holding the eavesdropping statute protects only sound-based and symbol-based communication; video recordings without sound are not in violation of the ).

WHEN IS HIDDEN CAMERA USE ILLEGAL?

California’s anti-paparazzi law also prohibits the trespassing of individuals in private, personal, or familial activities. Cal. Civil Code SS 1708.8. It is illegal to use a device for recording or taking photos of such things — which would otherwise have required a trespass.

Hire Corporate Investigator For Office Surveillance Setup

Setting up office surveillance can be a smart move if you suspect workplace fraud or theft. A corporate investigator can help ensure surveillance remains compliant with privacy laws, especially in private places. Most importantly you need a legitimate reason to implement office surveillance such as preventing theft, identifying fraud, or tracking office productivity. Experienced corporate investigators can help you set up secret cameras, monitoring software and motion detectors.

Use Private Surveillance for Workers’ Comp Fraud Documentation

Fraudulent workers comp documentation cases must be handled with care.  With proper evidence handling, you may be able to get legal approval to dismiss the people involved or get reimbursement for the lost funds. Private investigators will do the heavy lifting for you to identify workers who are faking injuries, who got injured out of work, or whose conditions started before they joined your company. Through discreet surveillance and witness interviews, PIs will get you the evidence you need to stop the theft and make the fraudsters pay.

IS IT AGAINST THE LAW TO INSTALL A CAMERA IN A PERSON’S HOUSE?

General U.S. Laws Regarding Video Surveillance. Anybody can use video recording cameras to monitor and secure their home or business.

DOES IT MAKE SENSE TO INSTALL CAMERAS IN YOUR HOME?

Although it is not illegal to install cameras in your house, you must be careful about where they are located. It is unlawful to install cameras in bathrooms or other areas that could be used for US violations.

A REASONABLE EXPECTATION FOR PRIVACY

The reasonable expectation for privacy is a crucial principle in any hidden camera law. You can place hidden cameras in your home or anywhere else you like. Hidden cameras are not legal to install in bathrooms or bedrooms of people who live there or anywhere else where it is believed that privacy would be compromised. Imagine cameras being used in these areas. In such cases, surveyors will need to post notices alerting the people being recorded.

PLACING YOUR OWN RECORDING DEVICES IN YOUR HOME

Nanny cams were a popular choice for parents and others who wanted to be able to watch their homes from abroad. These cameras were often hidden in teddy bears to help parents monitor their babysitters. These hidden cameras can be used in most states even though you don’t have consent.

CAN I INSTALL HIDDEN CAMERAS IN ANOTHER PERSON’S HOME?

It is illegal to install a hidden camera in someone’s home, as you probably guessed.

HIDDEN SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS USED IN PUBLIC PLACES

Hidden cameras are allowed in public spaces in many states. People who are in public places already give up their privacy.

EMPLOYERS USING HIDDEN RECORDING EQUIPMENT.

In most workplace areas, the rules that apply to homes and public places are also applicable. Although employers have the right to place hidden cameras around the workplace, most employers prefer to make the cameras easily visible to encourage employees to do their best.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU THINK YOU’RE BEING WATCHED

Martin Investigative Services does not charge any fees for consultations. Email us or call (800)577-1080 for a free consultation. You are worried that someone may have illegally installed a hidden camera at your house or workplace. Private investigators can be hired to find hidden cameras and audio bugs on your property.

Note: Most private investigators can not perform bug sweeps. Many people who receive training from the police community don’t have enough money to purchase the most advanced detection equipment. Most detection equipment must be up-to-date every five years to keep up with the latest hidden device technology. Equipment renewals can run into the thousands.

Private investigators in our field buy a “magic wand” online and pretend to sweep your house or business. This is a scam. Martin Investigative Services performs routine bug sweeps and physical and digital scans of properties to discover hidden recording devices or cameras. We offer a complete money-back guarantee for these services.

Secret surveying equipment, especially in the corporate sector, is more common than one might think. Between 1969 and 1988, the “find rate” in homes and businesses was around 4%; in the years since, the rate has been steadily increasing and is now at 16%.

HIDDEN CAMERA DETECTION

IF THEY’RE THERE, MARTIN INVESTIGATIVE SERVICES WILL FIND THEM.