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How to Spot a Fake Security Camera

Dave Miller with Online Cloud Security

Dave Miller – Tech Enthusiast & Security Expert – July 6th, 2022

how to spot a fake security camera

People frequently ask how to spot a fake security camera and the main difference when researching fake security cameras online. People may need security cameras for safety; nonetheless often lack the funds to get a reliable security camera.

Although fake cameras never have the same characteristics and capabilities. But it can have the same effect as a real one. Hence, people search for fake ones, which are pretty inexpensive. So, you should also be aware of the differences to pick, even if you are a security professional.

Continue reading the article to learn everything there is to know about these fake cameras, how and why individuals use them, and how to recognize one when you see one.

How to Spot a Fake Security Camera

Security Cameras – Crime Prevention

A security system has become increasingly essential due to increased crime and theft. Even when you are away from home, home security cameras provide your eyes and ears to watch over your property. So, CCTV and video surveillance contribute to increased security and safety.

For several reasons, putting these surveillance cameras in your house is a good move. The primary objective of establishing various types of CCTV, either wired or wireless, is protection. Even if you want to file an insurance claim for theft, getting a high-security camera helps.

Note: According to a University of North Carolina research, cameras are an effective crime deterrent. As per stats, 60% of most thieves will move to another target if they discover the presence of alarms or cameras.

However, this extra security has a price. Each security camera typically costs between $125 and $450, and the average cost to install a security camera in the country is about $1500. Because of this, not everyone wants to spend this much on security cameras, which is why fake security cameras are becoming so popular.

Spotting Fake Security Cameras

learning how to spot a fake security camera

Since as discussed above, many choose fake security cameras since they are considerably less expensive and provide the impression that there is greater security coverage. However, the principal objective of deploying fake security cameras is to deter potential criminals from entering your property.

Note: According to a survey conducted by KGW’s investigative team. Convicted burglars report that they are less inclined to rob a home equipped with a visible security monitoring system

While a false camera could be effective for some burglars, skilled burglars can still identify the difference between the two. There isn’t currently conclusive or scientific proof that these fake cameras help deter break-ins. But infact, it seems like it does worth a shot. Fake cameras are relatively easy to install, with only the occasional battery replacement and little to no maintenance needed.

Today’s fake cameras are so sophisticated that they now have imitation flickering LED lights, motion detectors, and even fake cables flowing out of the camera. However, there are methods through which one can learn how to spot a fake security camera.

How To Spot A Fake Security Camera – 5 Ways

So, even if you get convinced or not about using a fake security camera. Some features help you to get quickly going with how to spot a fake security camera.

Brands Label of Fake Security Cameras

The most reliable technique to identify fake equipment is its brand label. Genuine security cameras prominently show their brand names, but fake cameras may employ subtly modified logos or trademarks. Most counterfeit companies typically retain the visual look of the original product logo symbol. An online search can determine whether or if such a brand is present. Even legitimate brands include information about their logos to aid consumers in spotting counterfeits. Click the link below to get the list of well-to-know security camera brands

Over Displayed LED's & No IR Lights

The majority of false security cameras use fake LED lights within their flashes to make them resemble the light found in real cameras. But in reality, the blinking lights are typically absent from actual camera equipment since they are useless for recording or analyzing security feeds.

Even the genuine LED isn’t very bright and noticeable. This distinction between actual and fraudulent security cameras is simple to recognize if you have ever utilized a real security camera. Therefore, these LED lights go above and beyond their intended function, which helps you comprehend how to spot a fake security camera.

However, new security cameras use infrared lights to aid with night vision. A camera is most likely a fake if it does not contain these IR lights at night. You may take pictures of the IR lights using your cellphone’s camera to spot IR lights.

Motion Sensor & Fake Swivel

Some fake cameras get designed to move to simulate motion tracking. While some fake security cameras even include a built-in motion sensor to monitor motion. In reality, they simply turn back and forth without following the action. On the other hand, real cameras feature concealed sensors that detect and record all motions and noises without changing direction. They do not rotate or revolve for motion detection. So, the camera is most likely fake if it appears reasonably priced and swivels arbitrarily.

Note: The camera can spin and follow the object if it is a PTZ and might not be the fake one.

Fake Exposed Cables

Since fake security cameras get intended to be less expensive, adopting thinner wires with no use will also reveal a lot of information. Real camera makers utilize a single, very thick, high-quality cable. Although actual security cameras don’t have visible cables, fake cameras try to simulate real cameras by employing exposed wires.

Most old security cameras had two heavy cables, and new ones probably have just one. Therefore, if you spot one or two thin wires, it’s probably fake

However, I would assert. There are always specialized cameras and strange brands, so using wires alone to identify a fake camera is usually not the best action. It could be a good idea to pair it with other indications.

Cheap Build Quality

The outside appearance and build quality are important considerations when seeking to distinguish and how to spot a fake security camera. It is so that everyone can easily purchase cameras at a lower price, which is the principal objective of fake cameras. Although it is not a perfect method because fake ones now have better build quality, you may still utilize this signal by combining it with other methods.

You should be able to understand the false cameras around you after reading the tip above. You will be able to distinguish between cameras more readily the more involved you become with cameras.

My Take on Fake Cameras

Fake cameras are useless and only there to give the thieves the impression that your premises are secure. Even if some counterfeit cameras could have advanced capabilities, why would you spend money on one? If someone does get into your house or place of business, fake security cameras won’t record anything to aid law enforcement in identifying the intruders.

If you’re considering purchasing fake cameras, I advise searching for actual cameras that are inoperable instead. Usually, you can pick them up for next to nothing. Who wants a camera that doesn’t function, after all? Real and even not working cameras appear better than fake ones and are presumably more affordable. Real cameras can at least give proper evidence to assisting identify perpetrators after the event, even if they are ineffective as a deterrence.

Are Fake Security Cameras Legal to Use?

Although buying a false camera may potentially save money, it is not wise to do so if there is a chance of legal trouble. You must also abide by the same laws and guidelines for actual CCTV cameras if you install a fake security camera at your business or residence.

Although the placement of cameras may provide the impression that employees or residents are safe, this is not always the case. You risk legal repercussions if customers or residents believe they have got misled. 

It is typically legal but not necessarily a good idea, as there can be legal repercussions if the victim or law police ask for footage after an event but are informed there is none.

How to Spot a Fake Security Camera - Bottom Line

Some individuals are hesitant to invest in security cameras but still wish to keep intruders out of their properties. Although fake cameras might be helpful in many situations, they can only deceive unskilled robbers. As I’ve already covered a few methods, figuring out how to spot a fake security camera can be very simple with the methods above. It doesn’t take a genius brain to figuring this out.

Why spend your money on a fake camera when you can get a real one for less? Instead, invest in a cheap camera so you will have something for the police to look into. The advantages of a real, adequately managed CCTV system surpass those of fake cameras and seem far more cost-effective.

**Onlinecloudsecurity.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for websites to earn advertising revenues by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. As an Amazon Associate we earn affiliate commissions from qualifying purchases.**

Dave Miller with Online Cloud Security

Dave Miller

IT Consultant at Online Cloud Security

Dave Miller is an IT Consultant for Online Cloud Security and has over 7 years of experience in the Information Technology space. He also specializes in repairing laptops & computers. In his spare time, he loves to talk about new technologies and hosts monthly IT and Cyber Security meetings in the Houston area.

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About Online Cloud Security:

Online Cloud Security is here to recommend you the most secure devices, from laptops to smartphones, we only want to provide you with products that we have tested and used ourselves for online security. Every product that we recommend is heavily inspected and tested for security against hackers, viruses, malware, and any other intruders that may want to steal your information. 

Recent Posts:

Online Cloud Security Logo (500x500px)

About Online Cloud Security

Online Cloud Security is here to recommend you the most secure devices, from laptops to smartphones, we only want to provide you with products that we have tested and used ourselves for online security. Every product that we recommend is heavily inspected and tested for security against hackers, viruses, malware, and any other intruders that may want to steal your information. 

Recent Posts: