Nothing can be done to check the security situation of Airbnb before booking it. However, what you can do is look for hidden cameras as soon as you have arrived at the place. This way, you can check it yourself.

Here are some tips if you are not experienced enough to find hidden cameras.

How to Find a Hidden Camera

Finding a hidden camera is not difficult, as most people who install hidden cameras in Airbnb are not professional spies and are not clever enough to do it discreetly. You can effortlessly find these hidden cameras with little caution and insight.

1.   Use Your Common Sense

First of all, be alert and use your common sense while scanning the whole place. Look out for wires that seem out of place and don’t lead to any useful gadgets; they might have cameras at the end of them.

Secondly, turn off the lights and look out for blinking light sources. Most hidden cameras have a blinking light that can easily be seen in the dark if not appropriately concealed.

2.   Check Common Objects

After the initial inspection, your second step should be checking the everyday household objects inside out. For example, if a vase on a table is placed in such a manner that it’s getting a view of the whole place, there might be a hidden camera inside it.

Check everyday objects such as vases, water bottles, behind the mirrors, in the lamps, around the lights, or anything you think can conceal the cameras.

3.   Get an RF Signal Detector

If you are not short on budget and have to make a lot of Airbnb bookings, we suggest you get an RF signal detector. It is a handy gadget that can instantly detect any hidden cameras.

What to Do if You Find Hidden Cameras in Airbnb?

Most people destroy the cameras or confront Airbnb owners when they find hidden cameras. The first option means you are destroying the evidence, and the second is the most unsafe option, as it can easily lead to a violent conflict. We suggest you immediately call the police as soon as you find any recording device hidden in your Airbnb.

Visit Praetector for more security related tips and tricks. 

The post Hidden Cameras in Airbnb: How to Spot Them in Your Airbnb and Hotel Rooms appeared first on Praetector.

1- Verify that it’s an Authorized Security Camera

AirBNB states in their policy that security cameras are allowed, as long as they don’t infringe on a guest’s privacy. So if there is a camera by the front door or garage, that’s okay, as you agreed to that when you rented the home. Still, check the listing or message the host to make sure it’s active and to see what its’ purpose is. If the host confirms that it is authorized and meant to keep you safe from intruders who have not rented the property, then that might help you enjoy your vacation with a sound mind.

2- Check for Unauthorized Security Cameras

There are many types of security cameras that would be acceptable in a rental. Like one to watch for deliveries or animals in the backyard. Cameras hidden in lightbulbs or switches are not one of those kinds. Look for other cameras after you’ve seen a camera around the property. You can do that even if you haven’t seen any yet. Take a look at our article, “Worried About Being Spied On? Here’s How to Find a Hidden Camera” for tips and tricks.

3- Contact the Proper Authorities

If you’ve found something suspicious and verified that it’s not supposed to be there, go ahead and call the police and report the rental. Most sites will transfer your party to a new location for no cost. Security cameras are a wonderful tool to keep us protected. Unfortunately, some people take advantage of that, and it’s definitely a scary thought. But here at Praetector, we can help choose the best camera for you. Not only that, we help you learn ways to spot the ones that aren’t.

The post What To Do if Your Rental Has a Security Camera appeared first on Praetector.

How Do Hackers Get to the Security Cameras?

Hacking into security cameras can occur both remotely and locally. Local hacks occur when the hacker is physically within range of the wireless network connected to your cameras and can exploit vulnerabilities in the system. Unfortunately, many security cameras lack sufficient protection to prevent this type of attack.

Remote hacks, on the other hand, can be initiated from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. To minimize the risk of this type of attack, it’s important to work with a reputable company like Praetector. We secure your cameras and implement strong passwords that aren’t used for any other accounts. Additionally, updating software and regularly checking for security vulnerabilities can help keep your cameras safe from malicious actors.

How to Tell if Your Security Cameras are Hacked

Determining whether your security cameras have been hacked can be challenging. The primary goal of many hackers is to go undetected. However, there are a few tell-tale signs to look out for.

One of the most common indicators of a hacked camera system is a noticeable decrease in performance speed. While this can be due to a weak internet connection, it may also result from hacking. If you’ve ruled out other potential causes and your cameras are consistently experiencing slow speeds, it’s a good idea to investigate further.

Additionally, be on the lookout for unusual behavior. As in, cameras turning on and off at random times, a sudden increase in data usage, or the presence of strange or unauthorized devices on your network. If you suspect your cameras have been hacked, you must act quickly to secure your system and prevent further damage.

Here are some additional things to look out for:

1. Distorted or blurry footage: If your security camera footage appears distorted or blurry, it may be a sign that the video feed has been tampered with by a hacker.
2. Unusual network activity: If you notice unusual network activity, such as increased data transfer or strange IP addresses accessing your network, it may indicate that a hacker has gained access to your cameras.
3. Lack of privacy: If your camera footage is being streamed or recorded without your knowledge, it is a clear sign that your security cameras have been hacked.
4. Unusual camera movements: If your cameras start moving on their own or the field of view changes suddenly, it may indicate that a hacker has taken control of the camera.
5. Strange noises or voices: If you hear strange noises or voices in your camera footage, it may indicate that a hacker is using your cameras to listen in on your activities.

It’s important to be vigilant and look out for these signs. They help you ensure the security of your cameras and the privacy of your home or business.

How to Protect Your Security Cameras from Getting Hacked

Securing your security cameras from hacking is crucial to protecting your privacy and the security of your home or business. Here are some steps you can take to prevent your cameras from being hacked:

1. Choose a reputable company: When selecting a company for your security camera installation, make sure to research their reputation and track record. Look for a company that has a proven track record of providing secure and reliable security solutions.
2. Implement end-to-end encryption: Make sure that the security camera system you use includes end-to-end encryption to prevent unauthorized access to your video feeds.
3. Use strong passwords: Avoid using the same passwords for your security cameras that you use for other online accounts. In addition, make sure to choose strong, unique passwords that can’t be easily guessed.
4. Enable two-factor authentication: Adding an extra layer of security, such as two-factor authentication. This can help prevent unauthorized access to your cameras.
5. Regularly update the system: Keeping your security cameras and software updated with the latest security patches. This can help prevent hacking and other cyber threats.

By taking these precautions, you can help protect your security cameras from being hacked. In addition, you can ensure the privacy and security of your home or business.

Keep Your House Protected With Praetector

Protecting your home from potential threats can be overwhelming. However, with Praetector, you can have peace of mind without the hassle.

With a comprehensive range of security solutions, Praetector makes it easy for you to keep your house protected against any dangers. Say goodbye to stress and hello to a safer and more secure home with Praetector.

The post Can Security Cameras be Hacked? Here is How to Prevent it appeared first on Praetector.

Like every surveillance tool, surveillance cameras can be used conversely. It becomes a problem when you’re the target being monitored in your home.

The chances of your house getting bugged are pretty slim. However, if you have a reason to worry about illegal surveillance of your private space, this article is for you.

One of the most intuitive ways to find a hidden camera is to think of where you would hide one if you had to. Well, that’s usually not as efficient as portrayed in the movies. Here’s why.

Hidden cameras are specifically designed not to look hidden. They take the shape of light bulbs, switches, and petals.

Beyond being instinctive about your search for a hidden surveillance camera, here are the most effective ways to spot one in your home.

1. Scrutinize Your WiFi Network

Unlike the ’80s, today’s hidden cameras are primarily wireless, which sometimes makes them easy to spot since they’re usually connected to the closest and strongest internet connection. Of course, the nearest internet connection source would be your WiFi. So, do well to check the connected devices on your network.

A hidden wireless camera connected to your network might appear as an unknown device, and if it does, turn off your WiFi, change your password and check again.

However, some surveillance installers are thorough and could make the camera appear on your network as a house appliance you use. To beat that, physically check the authenticity of each connection on your network.

But what if the camera is connected to your neighbor’s WiFi instead? The next step should help.

2. Use Your Smartphone Camera

Smartphone cameras are great for taking amazing pictures and spotting the infrared lights of another camera. Well, this trick only works in the dark, so do well to turn off your room light and wait until it is stark dark.

When it’s pitch black, turn on your phone camera and scan every inch of your room, starting from the top. If your phone camera encounters an active hidden camera, the camera’s infrared light will appear on your phone screen as a greenish speckle of light.

The darkroom technique also works with flashlights. Most surveillance cameras emit red or green light when flaked with a very bright light.

If your suspicions persist after using these techniques, then it’s time you hire a technician. There’s no one better at providing visual protection than Praetector. We know how cameras work and can help you uncover a hidden one.

The post Worried About Being Spied On? Here’s How to Find a Hidden Camera. appeared first on Praetector.

Safety is the state of being protected by standard measures, an active setup against prospective danger. On the other hand, privacy is like a firewall preventing unauthorized access.

Both concepts overlap sometimes, and that’s alright. Many people need both. Knowing how your security needs fit into these terms will help you decide what security measures to take.

Security cameras are one of the most utilized security gadgets on planet earth. Today, there are many innovative trends in surveillance tech, and security cameras are at the peak of it. However, a security camera can only do one job at a time. So it’s important to know if you need it to protect your safety or privacy.

Here’s a look at the camera features that are peculiar to each concept.

1. Important features of safety security cameras

Remember, safety is all about setting up measures that protect you from perceived or imminent dangers. The following features facilitate that goal.

i. Outdoor security cameras

Outdoor security cameras are made to withstand outdoor conditions and deliver optimal performance. These cameras would work come rain or shine. They also have a wide viewing range and infrared tech, which makes them work in low-light situations.

ii. Weatherproof equipped

Standard outdoor cameras are weatherproofed. They are resistant to rain and can survive varying degrees of snowstorms and thunderstorms.

iii. Minimal wiring

The best outdoor cameras are solar-powered. Though minimal, they still require cable wiring. However, these cameras have backup batteries that keep them active when disconnected from a cable power source.

2. Important features of Privacy oriented security cameras

Security cameras for privacy protection can carry the same features as outdoor cameras, but they often come with extra sophistication. Note that privacy protection cameras are primarily for indoor purposes.

i. Camouflage

Privacy protection cameras are usually small, which makes them easy to hide and fix into subtle camouflage. They’re hidden not to stop the intrusion but to record the intruder and relay a detailed feed to the monitoring team.

ii. Facial recognition

Facial recognition in security cameras is especially great for Privacy protection. It keeps track of authorized faces and raises the alarm when an authorized face steps into a guarded space.

You’d agree that knowing one’s security needs and how to go about them is refreshing. Whatever visual security measures you need, you can trust Praetector to take care of them. It’s what we do best.

The post What Security Cameras Are Suited for Privacy Protection? appeared first on Praetector.

You don’t have to be a CIA or MI6 agent to set up a covert surveillance system at your residence. Stealth or covert surveillance does require some skill, but it’s no rocket science.  The deliberate act of monitoring people in their private space using surveillance devices is called intrusive surveillance.  Note that this article is about home security camera and in no form endorses the above-stated activity.  Regarding how you can use your security cameras in the most concealed ways possible, let’s get you acquainted with the concept of covert surveillance.

What is a Covert Security Camera?

Surveillance is covert or secret when targets are oblivious to being monitored.  Surveillance in this context refers to the use of security cameras in one’s home with the intent to prevent a security breach or capture the events that might have constituted the breach.  Naturally, security cameras are posed in the most visible angles to deter criminal activities. However, a determined intruder might find his way around the cameras since he can see them.

 Of course, that doesn’t mean unhidden cameras are ineffective. But sometimes you need special measures for particular circumstances. If you need to go stealth mode security-wise, here are the top three ways to go about it.

#1: The Bulb Frame Method.

While some cameras are small enough to fit into bulb frames, there are specific bulb frame designs for video surveillance. The best design is the Wi-Fi-enabled panorama camera bulbs, which give you access to a live feed, including the audio feed. Without critical observation, it’s near impossible to tell that there’s a camera embedded in these bulbs. Besides, you can always get a transparent bulb frame to improve the camouflage further.

#2: The Flower Pot Method.

Your flower pots don’t have to hold just flowers. They can hide your cameras too. A small security camera the size of the human eye will do the trick. All you have to do is place the camera within the thickness of your flowers and go about your day. Keep in mind that the type of cameras in covert surveillance is mostly battery-powered. Some of these batteries can last for 16 hours straight.

#3: The Wall Clock Method.

Imagine a clock that tells you the time and helps you monitor your personal space. Wall clock cameras are the zenith of home security surveillance. How?

 Well, no one ever suspects a clock. Clock cameras are usually connected directly to a power source. They can record as long as the power is on. Moreover, if the power goes off, its built-in batteries automatically continue recording. In addition, there are several other innovative ways to go about covert surveillance in your home. If you want to know more, contact Praetector’s surveillance experts. It gets better when you let the experts take care of things.

So, considering a fiber network for your business? AiNET provides top-notch fiber network connections in Baltimore and Washington DC areas. Let us know your requirement, and we will customize the networking solution for you.

The post How to Conceal Your Security Camera. appeared first on Praetector.

I am not saying that your camera is 100% hacked, but I am saying that there is a potential darker side to this technology. Sure, having security cameras installed around has amazing benefits, but it is wrong to assume that they are private and for your eyes only. Do not worry, there are ways that you might be able to know whether or not someone else is violating your privacy, and there are things you can do about it.

Security cameras have gained our trust to capture important moments. However, are we trusting them too much? Let’s take a look how you can know and what you can do about it.

1. Fiber networks mean faster connection

Roommates can come and go, but their access to your camera may stay. Make sure you kick off anyone who has nothing to do with your camera anymore. Giving someone access to your home security cameras is equal to giving them access to your privacy. Make sure that the people who no longer have anything to do with living in your home also have nothing to do with seeing what’s going on in it.

2. Don’t forget to change your passwords

Passwords, emails, security questions and anything related to them have got to change once in a while. Change your password to something new, unique, and strong and do not use the same password or something predictable. Do not also use old passwords because that would make it much easier for your hacker to enter your account and watch what you do in your time of comfort.

3. Use two-factor authentication

Also known as “2FA”, “two step verification” and “dual factor authentication”. As it already states in its name, 2FA is a security process that requires two different verification factors from its users in order to verify themselves. This improves the protection of the recourses and makes it hard for hackers to hack their way in. If your camera system allows two factor authentication, then my advice is to rush to your settings to activate it.

In conclusion, be careful with your cameras, after all protecting yourself, your family and your belongings is in your hands. Visit Praetector for more information

The post Is your camera protecting or spying on you? appeared first on Praetector.

Yes, security cameras help you a lot with protection. However, the bad news is that these criminals are starting to get the hang of it. They are getting used to the usual places and now know what to do and how to move in order not to get caught. But do not worry, I am here to help you.

Robbers, criminals, and thieves all know where the normal places are for cameras. The front and back door, driveways, in the upper corner of a room. They are even becoming more and more creative with their plans. What if you changed those places and catch them off guard? Here are some of the best places to hide the security cameras that covers the entire area. And still, nobody expects.

1. Hide them in normal places

What do I mean by “normal places”? is the corner of the room an abnormal place? By normal places, I mean blend it with simple household items, a place where an intruder doesn’t think twice about looking. Some ideas are electrical outlets, Lamp stands, artificial plants, book shelfs, and many more places. Placing security cameras in hidden places like this will make them less likely to be discovered.

If you think that your camera doesn’t fit in places like these, you can always get a mini camera that fits almost anywhere!

2. Hide them outdoors

Either you put it hidden inside a branch of a tree, a small bush right outside your door, a cute birdhouse or inside your mailbox. Putting hidden cameras in places like these help you cover most of your outdoor area, and helps you identify anyone that dares to try to break in.

You can even take an extra step of buying a fake rock that is “just tossed in your outdoor garden”. Most thieves won’t even notice the rocks there because… it’s just a rock. But is it?

3. Hide your security camera in the doorbell

Exactly at the right level, hiding your camera in the doorbell captures everything needed to catch a thief. While he’s putting an effort trying to unlock your door, his face, body, hair, and every single detail is being recorded. Even if he is wearing a mask, by using your security camera you can closely monitor his height, clothes, movements and many more.
You can even keep the video in the storage which can be later taken to the police station to take the rightful actions.

If you want to learn more, simply visit Praetector.

The post Disguise Your Security Camera appeared first on Praetector.

We use surveillance cameras to keep our property safe. Over the years, the use of CCTV cameras has been diversified. We install security cameras outside our home, store, or office places to keep an eye on who is coming near our property and how they are behaving. We also install them inside our homes or offices to monitor the people.
In this article, we will provide you a general overview of rules and regulations regarding surveillance cameras. There may be some additional restrictions on local, municipal, or county levels.

Federal laws regarding recording people

There are no explicit federal laws specific to surveillance cameras. However, when installing a security camera intended to record people in different settings, you should consider the Expectation of Privacy laws.

The Expectation of Privacy law says you cannot record people in places where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy. That means you cannot install a security camera inside a bathroom, shower, changing room, locker room, bedroom, hotel room, etc. The law, however, does not restrict you from recording a person in a public place.

States having specific laws around surveillance cameras refer to the principle of Expectation of Privacy while defining a private place.

State laws regarding residential surveillance cameras

Out of the 50 states, only 16 have passed laws around the use of security cameras. In other states, the judges make decisions on a case-to-case basis.

Here is a brief overview of the state laws that have been passed by the state legislators to regulate the usages of security cameras.

California

California residential security camera law allows a private person to install video surveillance cameras around their property for security purposes. As long as the camera does not violate another person’s right to privacy, it is legal to use a camera in a residential neighborhood. However, you cannot install a hidden camera in a place considered to be private.

Georgia

Georgia state law code states it is illegal to “observe, photograph, or record the activities of another which occur in any private place and out of the public view.”

If you are in this state, make sure your camera does not capture the footage of the inside of your neighbor’s house.

Florida, Alabama, and Minnesota

In these states, both visible and hidden video surveillance is legal in public places. However, you cannot record someone in a private setting. Expectations of Privacy Laws will apply to differentiate between private and public.

If you are in Florida, make sure your camera is facing your property. It should not capture the footage of your neighbor’s yard or home.

New Hampshire, Maine, Kansas, South Dakota, and Delaware

The principle of Reasonable Expectations of Privacy applies in these states. You can install a surveillance camera pointing outward from your own property. Their yard or outside of your neighbor’s home is not considered a place where some would have an expectation of privacy. However, your security camera shouldn’t record the inside of their house.

New York, Tennessee, Michigan, and Utah

These states allow you to install video surveillance cameras in public places without any restrictions. However, you cannot install hidden cameras in areas where privacy is expected, whether consent is sought or not.

Hawaii

In Hawaii, you cannot install a surveillance camera without the consent of the people who are being recorded. This rule applies to both public and private places.

Arkansas

In Arkansas, you can record people in private settings with their consent.

In the above cases, consent generally means that people are aware of being watched. You need to put up clearly visible signage notifying people that the place is under video surveillance.

Additional rules may apply to the audio-enabled cameras. Be extra careful while you are installing a security camera that records the audio as well. In this article, we have only focused on residential security cameras installed outside the house. The rules and regulations can be different for offices, stores, and other public places.

No laws deter you from installing a front-door surveillance camera. Depending on the local regulations, you may have to be careful about its positioning. In addition, CCTV cameras are extremely useful in reducing crime rates and keeping your home safe.

In conclusion, Praetector uses the most advanced technology to make world-class security cameras for your home and offices. Praetector surveillance cameras are available on Amazon.com. You can also get in touch with us to buy a security camera or know more about its features.

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You are still at risk of security theft from hackers. They can break into your cameras, observe your daily activities, and even threaten you with your vulnerable data.

To prevent this troublesome situation, here are 5 tips to be safe from security breaches, with a bonus tip in conclusion!

1. Use High-End Encryption Software

The best way to secure your data is to use high-level encryption. Through encryption, the data sent by the sender will remain secure between the sender and the receiver; only the receiver can decrypt the data. It is nearly improbable for hackers or any third party to intercept the data while it is encrypted

2. Solidify Your Passwords

Make the first step of accessing your account impossible for an anonymous user. Use different combinations of uppercase and lowercase alphabets, numbers, and symbols.

Don’t use a similar password for all of your accounts. Otherwise, if one of your accounts gets hacked, it won’t be long before the other accounts have been hacked, too — like the falling dominos!

3. Keep Firmware Up-To-Date

Weaknesses in the system of different firmware are discovered almost every single day. Hence, firmware companies solve these problems as early as possible to improve their system’s security.

Those firmware updates you get again and again are not spammed emails; they protect your security cameras and keep them up-to-date.

4. Use a Secure Cloud Storage

Do you know what makes the work of a hacker more frustrating? Using different layers of high-tech security!

With Praetector, you can automatically protect all your recorded data into secure cloud storage. Even if the hackers hack into your live camera, they still cannot access the recorded data from your cameras.

5. Enable Two-Factor Authentication

An extra layer of security makes it even harder for hackers to use your cameras. Enable the two-factor verification method so that an OTP (One-time password) is delivered to your number or email. You will need that code to access your cameras whenever you log in with your username and password.

Consequently, even if the hackers crack your credentials, they won’t be able to hack your security cameras without that code.

Conclusion: Show Yourself as a Hard Target!

Hackers search for weak targets.

The best way to avoid any attacks on your security systems is to make them more complicated and secure. When the hackers realize that you protect your security cameras with a high-tech security company like Praetector, making you a target for a security breach is unthinkable!

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