Trustpilot

Category: CCTV

How Many CCTV Cameras Are There In The UK?

How Many CCTV Cameras Are There In The UK?

Over the last couple of decades, the proliferation of CCTV cameras has become a significant aspect of the UK’s approach to public safety and security. With advanced technologies and growing concerns over crime and terrorism, the country has seen a massive increase in the deployment of surveillance systems. 

This blog explores the landscape of CCTV cameras in the UK, highlighting their numbers, types, and implications for privacy.

The growth of CCTV in the UK

The use of CCTV cameras in the UK dates back to the 1960s, but it wasn’t until the late 1990s and early 2000s that their numbers began to rise sharply. Today, the UK is known as one of the most surveilled countries in the world. 

While estimates vary, most suggest that there are around 5.2 million CCTV cameras currently in operation across the nation. This includes both public and private systems, encompassing everything from outdoor CCTV cameras on streets and in public spaces to those installed in businesses and homes.

Types of CCTV cameras in use

Outdoor CCTV cameras

Outdoor CCTV cameras are specifically designed to withstand the elements while providing high-quality video surveillance. These cameras are commonly found in public spaces such as city centres, parks, and transportation hubs. 

Equipped with features like night vision and motion detection, outdoor CCTV cameras play a crucial role in deterring crime and aiding law enforcement.

Wireless CCTV cameras

The advent of wireless CCTV cameras has revolutionised the surveillance industry. These cameras offer greater flexibility and ease of installation compared to their wired counterparts. They are particularly popular for residential use, allowing homeowners to monitor their property without the need for extensive cabling. 

Wireless CCTV cameras are often connected to the internet, enabling real-time viewing and alerts via smartphones or computers.

Traditional CCTV cameras

Traditional CCTV cameras, typically connected by coaxial cables, remain prevalent in many businesses and public institutions. While they may lack the modern conveniences of wireless systems, these cameras are known for their reliability and consistent performance. 

Many traditional CCTV setups now integrate with digital video recorders (DVRs) to store footage for extended periods.

The impact of CCTV on society

Enhancing public safety

The primary justification for the widespread deployment of CCTV cameras in the UK is the enhancement of public safety. Numerous studies have shown that visible surveillance can deter criminal activity. 

Additionally, CCTV footage has proven invaluable in solving crimes, providing crucial evidence that can lead to the apprehension and prosecution of offenders.

Privacy concerns

Despite the benefits, the extensive use of CCTV cameras has raised significant privacy concerns. Critics argue that constant surveillance infringes on individual freedoms and creates a sense of a ‘Big Brother’ society. 

The challenge lies in finding a balance between effective security measures and the protection of personal privacy.

CCTV is here to stay

The proliferation of CCTV cameras in the UK reflects a society increasingly reliant on technology to ensure public safety. With approximately 5.2 million cameras in operation, ranging from outdoor CCTV cameras to advanced wireless systems, surveillance has become an integral part of everyday life. While these systems offer undeniable benefits in crime prevention and resolution, they also prompt important discussions about privacy and the boundaries of surveillance.

As technology continues to evolve, so too will the landscape of CCTV in the UK. Striking the right balance between security and privacy will remain a crucial challenge for policymakers, law enforcement, and society at large.

At SECOM, we’ve installed countless CCTV systems across the country for businesses. Explore our CCTV offering to find out what we can do for you.

4 Ways Home Security Cameras Deter Burglars

4 Ways Home Security Cameras Deter Burglars

In an environment where security concerns are on the rise, investing in a reliable home CCTV system has become paramount for safeguarding our homes and loved ones. Home security cameras not only provide peace of mind but also act as a powerful deterrent against burglars. 

In this article, we will explore four effective ways in which home CCTV systems deter burglars, ensuring a safer environment for your household.

1. Visible deterrence

    One of the most significant advantages of a home CCTV system is its visible presence. Burglars often scout neighbourhoods looking for easy targets, and the sight of security cameras can immediately make them think twice about attempting a break-in. 

    The mere presence of a CCTV camera mounted outside your home sends a clear message to potential intruders: you are vigilant and prepared to protect your property. Studies have shown that homes equipped with visible security cameras are far less likely to be targeted by burglars, making them an essential investment for any homeowner concerned about security.

    2. Real-time monitoring

      Modern home CCTV systems offer advanced features like real-time monitoring, allowing homeowners to keep an eye on their property remotely. With live video feeds accessible through smartphones or computers, you can monitor your home from anywhere in the world, giving you unparalleled peace of mind. 

      The ability to observe suspicious activity as it happens enables you to take immediate action, such as alerting authorities or triggering alarm systems. This proactive approach not only deters burglars but also increases the chances of apprehending them in the event of a break-in. 

      The knowledge that their actions are being recorded and monitored in real time is often enough to dissuade potential intruders from targeting your home.

      3. Recorded evidence

      In the unfortunate event of a burglary, having a home CCTV system can provide valuable recorded evidence for law enforcement and insurance purposes. High-definition cameras capture clear footage of intruders, their actions, and any stolen items, aiding authorities in identifying and apprehending the perpetrators. 

      Moreover, the existence of recorded evidence serves as a powerful deterrent against future break-ins. Burglars are well aware that their chances of getting caught increase significantly when there is video evidence of their crimes. Therefore, the presence of a home CCTV system not only helps protect your property but also contributes to the overall safety of your neighbourhood by deterring potential criminals.

      4. Enhanced security measures

      Home CCTV systems can be integrated with other security measures to create a comprehensive security solution. For example, many systems offer motion detection capabilities, triggering recording and alert notifications whenever motion is detected in designated areas. 

      This feature not only reduces false alarms but also ensures that any suspicious activity is promptly brought to your attention. Additionally, some CCTV systems allow for two-way audio communication, enabling you to interact with visitors or potential intruders remotely. 

      By combining these advanced features with traditional security measures such as locks and alarms, you create multiple layers of protection that make your home a less appealing target for burglars.

      Invest in your safety and security

      Investing in a home CCTV system is a proactive step towards enhancing the security of your property and deterring burglars. The visible presence of security cameras, coupled with real-time monitoring, recorded evidence, and enhanced security measures, creates a formidable defence against intruders. 

      By utilising modern technology to safeguard your home, you not only protect your belongings but also ensure the safety of your family and loved ones. Remember, prevention is always better than dealing with the aftermath of a burglary, and a reliable home CCTV system is an invaluable tool in preventing crime before it happens.

      If you’re looking for a security system for your home, look into our smart home security solutions and get in touch to learn more about what we offer.

      Best Places to Install Home Security Cameras

      Best Places to Install Home Security Cameras

      Home security cameras are an essential component of any modern home security system. They provide peace of mind by allowing homeowners to monitor their property, deter potential intruders, and gather evidence in case of a security breach. 

      However, knowing where to install these cameras is crucial for maximising their effectiveness. Explore the best places to install home security cameras to enhance the safety and security of your home.

      Entry points

      One of the most critical areas to install home security cameras is at entry points such as doors and windows. These are the primary points of entry for burglars and intruders, making them ideal locations for surveillance cameras. 

      Place cameras near the front and back doors, garage doors, and any other entry points to your home. This allows you to monitor who enters and exits your property and provides valuable footage in case of a break-in.

      Front door

      The front door is the most common entry point for burglars, making it a priority area for camera installation. Position a camera above the front door to capture clear footage of anyone approaching or leaving your home. 

      Ensure the camera is placed high enough to prevent tampering and angled to provide a full view of the door and surrounding area.

      Backyard and garden

      Backyards and gardens are often overlooked when it comes to home security, but they can be vulnerable areas for intruders. Install cameras overlooking these areas to monitor for any suspicious activity. 

      Consider placing cameras near outdoor valuables such as bikes, tools, or garden furniture to deter theft.

      Driveway

      Installing security cameras in the driveway can help you keep an eye on vehicles entering and leaving your property. This is particularly useful for monitoring deliveries, visitors, and potential trespassers. 

      Position cameras to capture clear footage of vehicles and their occupants, ensuring complete coverage of the driveway area.

      Common areas

      Interior security cameras are essential for monitoring common areas inside your home. Place cameras in living rooms, hallways, and other high-traffic areas to keep an eye on activity inside the house. 

      This allows you to monitor for intruders and keep track of family members and pets when you’re away from home.

      Blind spots

      Identify any blind spots around your property where intruders could potentially gain access unnoticed. These areas may include dark corners, alleyways, or obscured entry points. Install cameras to cover these blind spots and ensure comprehensive surveillance of your home.

      High-risk areas

      Certain areas of your property may be more susceptible to security threats than others. These high-risk areas may include detached garages, sheds, or outbuildings, which are often targeted by burglars. Install security cameras in these areas to deter intruders and capture footage of any suspicious activity.

      Points of vulnerability

      Assess your home for points of vulnerability, such as weak spots in fencing, broken windows, or poorly lit areas. These are areas where intruders are more likely to attempt entry or escape. Install cameras to monitor these points of vulnerability and enhance the overall security of your home.

      Maximise your home security system

      Choosing the right locations for home security camera installation is essential for maximising the effectiveness of your home security system. By strategically placing cameras at entry points, high-risk areas, and points of vulnerability, you can deter intruders, monitor activity, and protect your home and family. 

      Invest in high-quality security cameras and ensure proper installation to enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is safe and secure.

      If you want to learn more about CCTV security and what it can do for your home, take a look at our range, including smart and bespoke security cameras. 

      5 Ways to Make Your Home More Secure

      5 Ways to Make Your Home More Secure

      Peace of mind is priceless, especially when it comes to the safety and security of your loved ones and your belongings. Fortunately, there are a number of steps you can take to deter potential intruders and create a safer living environment. 

      Here are five key ways you can boost your home security.

      1. Invest in a robust home security system

      A high-quality home security system acts as the central nervous system of your security setup. Modern systems offer a range of features.

      Intrusion detection: These systems use strategically placed sensors on doors and windows to detect unauthorised entry. When triggered, they emit a loud siren and can send an alert to your smartphone or a central monitoring station.

      Remote access and monitoring: Many systems allow you to remotely arm and disarm your system, view live footage from security cameras and receive notifications of any activity.

      Environmental monitoring: Some systems can also monitor for smoke, carbon monoxide, and water leaks, providing an extra layer of protection for your home.

      Consider a burglar security system with features that suit your needs and budget. 

      Don’t forget to factor in professional installation for optimal functionality.

      2. Utilise the power of CCTV cameras

      CCTV cameras are a highly effective visual deterrent to would-be intruders. The presence of cameras alone can be enough to discourage a break-in attempt. 

      Here’s how CCTV systems can enhance your security:

      Increased deterrence: Prominently placed CCTV cameras send a clear message to potential intruders that they are being watched.

      Improved situational awareness: CCTV footage provides valuable evidence in the event of a break-in, helping to identify and apprehend the culprits.

      Remote monitoring: With a CCTV system, you can keep an eye on your property from anywhere with an internet connection, offering peace of mind while you’re away.

      3. Don’t underestimate the importance of a fire alarm

      While most people associate security systems with deterring burglaries, fire safety is equally important. A properly functioning fire alarm can provide vital early warnings in the event of a fire, giving you and your family precious time to evacuate. 

      Here’s why a fire alarm is essential:

      Early detection saves lives: A fire alarm can sound the alert even when you’re sleeping or unaware of a fire’s presence, allowing for a swift escape.

      Provides valuable time for action: The early warning from a fire alarm gives you time to extinguish a small fire before it escalates or safely evacuate your home.

      Peace of mind: Knowing you have a functioning fire alarm in place can provide significant peace of mind, especially for those with young children or elderly relatives in the home.

      4. Utilise security lighting

      Strategic use of outdoor lighting can significantly deter burglars who prefer to operate under the cover of darkness. Well-lit areas eliminate potential hiding places for intruders, making them feel less comfortable attempting a break-in. 

      This increased visibility allows you and your neighbours to see what’s happening around your property, deterring crime and aiding in the identification of suspicious activity. Motion-activated lights add an extra layer of deterrence by surprising potential intruders and illuminating the area upon detection of movement, making it difficult for them to proceed unnoticed. Invest in high-quality security lights to illuminate entry points and vulnerable areas around your property. 

      By improving the overall visibility around your home, you can significantly discourage criminal activity.

      5. Cultivate a community watch network

      Getting to know your neighbours and looking out for each other can be a great way to boost security. If you work together, you’ll have more people watching out for suspicious activity. This can scare off criminals and help you catch them if something does happen. Knowing your neighbours are watching your house can also make you feel safer. 

      Why not reach out and see if you can start a neighbourhood watch programme? By working together, you can create a friendlier and safer place to live.

      Creating a layered approach to security

      By implementing these five key strategies, you can create a layered security approach that deters crime, protects your loved ones, and provides peace of mind. Remember, even small improvements to your home security can make a significant difference.

      At Secom, we offer a comprehensive range of home security options, including home security systems, CCTV cameras, fire alarms, security lighting, and more. 

      Explore our home security range.

      Committed to enhancing the safety of your business and customers

      Committed to enhancing the safety of your business and customers

      The future of retail security and loss prevention was here way before Project Pegasus

      SECOM PLC, a prominent name in the security industry and part of the SECOM Group, which is one of the world’s leading electronic security companies, proudly asserts its position as a leading Security Services Company, standing at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions. While industry, government, retailer and police conversations centre around Project Pegasus, SECOM PLC has not only explored but implemented a significantly more comprehensive and in-depth security solution tailored for retailers. Our loss prevention solutions along with AI led technology CCTV integrated solutions have been delivering proven results for years.

      With a deep-rooted commitment to enhancing the safety of businesses, SECOM PLC leverages state-of-the-art technology, surpassing the conventional realms of CCTV surveillance. Through the integration of facial recognition software and AI-led technology, SECOM PLC can provide retailers with unparalleled insights into their security landscape.

      “Our services transcend the ordinary. We don’t just stop at surveillance; we delve deeper into the intricacies of criminal activities using the latest technologies,empowering our clients with actionable intelligence,” said Kevin Llewellyn, Head of National Accounts at SECOM PLC.

      SECOM PLC’s advanced systems have proven to be remarkably effective. In the last month alone, our technology identified nearly 70% of theft incidents as the work of repeat offenders on one of our customer’s estates. This proactive identification not only prevents crimes but also facilitates the swift response of law enforcement agencies.

      Recent Success Stories Speak Volumes

      • Leading high street convenience store: SECOM PLC successfully identified over 1800 repeat offenders, leading to custodial sentences exceeding 50 years. All evidence, including detailed evidence packs, MG11s, and video evidence, were delivered and accepted by approximately 30 police forces, securely stored and delivered from the cloud.

      • National Health Store Retailer: SECOM PLC provides nationwide intelligence services, tracking repeat offenders and exposing intricate criminal networks. Recent reports highlighted gang-affiliated repeat offenders operating across multiple cities, enabling retailers to proactively address potential threats.

      • National Pub/Restaurant Company: SECOM PLC’s tenacious intelligence team worked with our customer to provide a successful outcome in  81% of the 78 reported incidents since January 2022. The team’s dedication led to successful investigations, arrests, and charges against suspects. These efforts also resulted in enhanced relationships with local police, reinforcing security measures and fostering safer environments.

      A representative of the National Pub/Restaurant Company, praised SECOM PLC’s work, stating, “The great success of the work achieved by SECOM has put our pubs in a much better position, often with closer relationships developed with the local police and better lines of communication now in place.”

      Curious on what SECOM can offer you?

      At SECOM PLC, we understand the pressing concerns faced by retailers, and we are dedicated to providing precise and detailed answers to your questions. Curious about your most prolific offenders? Our reports come complete with comprehensive details and high-resolution photos of all offenders, making it easy to identify and track repeat offenders across your establishments. Concerned about cross-offending across different stores on your estate? Our specialised reports highlight repeat offenders who are active across your stores nationwide, offering valuable insights for targeted security measures.

      Wondering about the times and locations of offences? We provide real-time information, ensuring you know precisely when and where incidents occur, enabling you to adjust staff presence as needed. Interested in the key items being targeted for theft? We analyse trends to identify high-risk items. Moreover, we assess the extent of their responsibility for your overall theft problem and outline the potential impact if they were not offending. With SECOM PLC, you receive comprehensive, actionable intelligence tailored to your security needs, empowering you to make informed decisions and enhance your overall security strategies

      In a world where security is paramount, SECOM PLC continues to lead the charge in providing unparalleled protection. Retailers and banks can now benefit from SECOM PLC’s thorough, in-depth solutions, ensuring real success stories and safer environments.

      For enquiries, please contact:

      Lauren Michael, Head of Marketing, SECOM PLC lauren.michael@secom.plc.uk

      About SECOM PLC

      SECOM PLC is a leading Security Services Company, a proud member of the global SECOM network. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, SECOM PLC provides advanced security solutions to retailers and banks, ensuring unparalleled safety and peace of mind.

      Contact us