The Restrictions of Personal CCTV

 

 

CCTV Cameras Systems at Home

CCTV cameras are being deployed by homeowners for safety and security measures. CCTV cameras no doubt are the best available option to manage home security and avoid thefts and burglaries. There are several types of CCTV camera systems available in the market that help you protect your property. You can select the best system for your property by searching CCTV Cameras Manchester over the web.

If you plan to install one or have already installed one at your property. There are certain laws and regulations you need to follow. These might also be termed as restrictions of personal CCTV. This article will help you understand all the regulations in simple terms. So you can understand and implement them too.

The Governing Body

Before we learn about the laws, it is important to know that it is the Information Commissioner's Office that enforces CCTV laws in the UK. It comes under the Data Protection Act of 2018. This office published guidelines for CCTV owners. These laws apply to all those who have deployed CCTV cameras that capture their neighbor's house, public places, or shared spaces. The same ICO's office is also responsible for answering all your questions and queries related to CCTV systems.

 

Check Something Exciting on Reddit

Restrictions on residential security cameras from r/HomeImprovement

 

Laws Related to CCTV Systems

If you set up a CCTV system at your home and it only captures the images within your property's boundaries. Then no Data Protection Laws will apply to you. However, if your CCTV cameras capture images outside your property's boundaries. Then the Data Protection Laws will apply to you and you will have to follow them.

This doesn't mean that you are going against the law. But you being the user and controller of the CCTV system will have to comply with the legal obligations of the Data Protection Act. You can capture images, but you need to give proof of what you are capturing and state a valid reason as well.

An ICO can also ask you to state the reason and write it down for them. This is done to keep everything in records.

Things you will have to do if you have a CCTV installed capturing outside your boundaries:

1. Place signboards saying that you are using CCTV cameras. Inform the people of your community as well.
2. Do not capture footage more than what you need.
3. Keep the records of the footage safe and ensure no one except you is using them.
4. Keep the footage for as long as you need it. Do not distribute it further and delete it after your purpose is achieved.
5. Ensure that the CCTV is operating for the only intended purpose. Do not misuse the system and deliberately record other people. Breach of anyone else's privacy is also an offense.
6. Anyone who expects you who has access to the system must not misuse it and should follow all rules and regulations.

 

Read also: The Benefits Of Having A Remote Assistant Of CCTV Cameras

Wrapping Out!

If you fail to comply with the above laws, you may be subjected to punishment or fines as per the laws imposed by ICO. Hence, take your CCTV system seriously and follow all the rules.