As the use of CCTV cameras increases in the United States and around the world, so does the debate about their number and reasons. There are many arguments in favor of video surveillance, including peace of mind, loss prevention, deterrence, and crime resolution, but what about the other side of the story? Thousands of people and groups oppose video surveillance, and many of them have very valid points. What are the consequences of allowing “Big Brother” access to all of our public life? Will that eventually lead to the invasion of our private affairs? When does it start to be too much? The ACLU has an entire website, You Are Being Watched, dedicated to the “high costs of camera surveillance systems, both in terms of money and civil liberties,” and that’s just one example of a group taking action.

So what are some of the main arguments against using CCTV surveillance systems? We’ll see…

invasion of privacy – This is the most common argument against surveillance systems. Nobody likes the idea of ​​being watched, but we are starting to see security cameras on a lot more street corners and light poles. Cities usually justify these additions by saying that they are monitoring and preventing crime, which is valid, but many people, both innocent and not, would rather the cameras weren’t there. While video surveillance is more commonly accepted in public areas, this sentiment comes into play more with the use of covert and hidden cameras in private areas. The laws impose restrictions in this area, for now, but the main concern is the future of citizens’ privacy.

Distrust – The use of security cameras in your home or business can make its occupants feel suspicious. If your family members or employees are under constant surveillance, there is likely to be hostility and animosity in the air. Feeling like your every move you make is monitored and recorded is not only creepy, but downright terrifying. Even the most trusted employees can become paranoid and nervous when a camera is pointed at their cubicle all day. No more falling asleep, checking Facebook, texting or doodling, you’re being watched!

not proven effective – Studies conducted in California and London have found that security cameras had little to no effect on reducing the crime rate. With an increase in the number of cameras in many large cities, many replacing human security guards, this is a strong argument that will be the main target of many opposing groups. I think we can all agree that there is no replacement for a human police officer or security guard who thinks, acts, and solves problems, and if we start to rely on cameras as pure deterrents, how do we plan to stop crimes as they happen?

misuse and abuse – Images captured by CCTV cameras become susceptible to abuse and misuse by those who have access to them. For example, images can be used to discriminate against people and for voyeurism. In the internet age, this is another huge problem, as can be seen in all the “hilarious” YouTube videos out there. I doubt the subjects would find most of them that amusing. Obviously, this is related to the problem of invasion of privacy and is one of the main concerns of activists. All it takes is a security guard of the “funny” type to post stills or images of an individual doing something embarrassing or they shouldn’t and reputations are ruined, privacy is erased and those who oppose CCTV will have more ammunition.

All of these reasons are valid arguments against CCTV surveillance. There are many cities and countries that have massive surveillance systems, and we are likely to see a huge increase in public monitoring in the near future, so the more the public knows about the industry and their rights etc, the more they can prepare for when it happens in their little corner of the world.

Do you have any additional arguments against the use of security camera systems? What are your thoughts? Will he fight them or willingly open his “public” life to be watched? Feel free to leave a comment with your thoughts and opinions.