How to install and use surveillance cameras?

Video surveillance systems have proven to be effective in enhancing security. These systems are commonly used in many stores to prevent shoplifting and reduce the risk of assault. Are you considering installing a video surveillance system in your shop? This article outlines the regulations and best practices for setting up such equipment.

How to install an in-store surveillance camera?

Obtain authorisation

Are you planning to install a surveillance camera inside your shop? According to current legislation, surveillance cameras require prior authorisation. You must submit an application to the local authorities where the system will be installed. The application will be reviewed by the departmental video protection commission, which will provide its opinion within three months. If the opinion is favourable, you must then declare the activation of the video surveillance system to the local authorities. Authorisation for installing and operating a video surveillance system is valid for five years and must be renewed thereafter.

Respect privacy regulations

All video surveillance systems must respect the privacy of both shop staff and customers. Filming individuals at their workstations is prohibited, except in specific situations (such as at a checkout counter). Cameras should not be installed in rest areas, toilets, or fitting rooms. Employees and customers must be explicitly informed about the presence of cameras.

Assign surveillance system responsibility

Before installing any cameras, the manager must decide who will have the authority to view the surveillance footage and who will be responsible for maintaining the system. Only the employer and individuals designated by the employer will have access to the recordings. If the video surveillance system can be accessed remotely, the images must be securely protected.

Manage image storage effectively

Images recorded by surveillance cameras are generally stored for no more than 30 days before being destroyed. The employer may choose to extend this period if necessary, though a few days' storage is often sufficient. It is important that the employer maintains an up-to-date log of the recorded images and their use.

Wi-Fi and wired surveillance cameras

How to install a Wi-Fi surveillance camera?

Wi-Fi surveillance cameras have become increasingly useful in preventing theft. There are several models available that can be installed either by a professional service provider or by yourself using a video surveillance kit.

For shop installations, a router equipped with a firewall, such as an Internet box, is required. The more cameras you install, the higher the required Internet speed. Wi-Fi cameras typically operate on 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequencies.

In terms of power, Wi-Fi cameras can be plugged directly into outlets. They can also be powered by rechargeable batteries or solar batteries. These autonomous power supplies allow Wi-Fi cameras to be discreetly installed anywhere in the shop.

Explore benefits of Wi-Fi surveillance cameras

Wi-Fi cameras offer several benefits for video surveillance:

• No prior technical knowledge is required. You can purchase and install your video surveillance kit yourself.
• When properly configured, some cameras can operate independently 24/7.
• The system sends notifications to control devices (smartphones, computers, or tablets) as soon as an anomaly is detected.
• Surveillance cameras can be combined with artificial intelligence. With its algorithms, AI can detect suspicious behavior, such as shoplifting. The shop manager is alerted in real-time and can decide on the appropriate action.

Wi-Fi-connected video surveillance cameras provide shop managers and security officers with greater autonomy. Thanks to their ease of installation, these protection systems offer a high level of security and performance.

How to install a surveillance camera without the Internet?

It is possible to use a video surveillance system that does not rely on the Internet. For this setup, you will need one or more cables to connect the camera to the DVR or NVR installed in the shop. These cables can be either Ethernet or coaxial. Additionally, a second cable connected to the mains will be needed to power the camera. Here are the steps to follow when installing a wired surveillance camera:

1. Determine which areas you want to monitor.
2. Ensure you have the necessary cables to connect each camera to the video recorder.
3. Install the cameras in the chosen locations and ensure the field of vision is clear.
4. Attach the cables to the appropriate ports on the video recorder.
5. Configure settings such as video resolution and image storage time.
6. Verify that everything is working properly, including connections to the computer and/or a smartphone.

While it is possible to install this type of camera without professional assistance, having technical skills is beneficial.

How to set up an outdoor surveillance camera?

Some businesses are equipped with outdoor surveillance cameras. The installation of outdoor cameras also requires authorization from local authorities. To protect privacy, it is illegal to film public areas without authorisation or a valid reason.

If you opt for a wireless outdoor camera, the first step is to choose the placement location. For optimal effectiveness, select strategic positions to capture a comprehensive view of the area to be monitored. For a business, suitable locations might include gates, above the entrance door, or in the parking lot. Ensure the camera is installed on a flat surface and as close to the router as possible to maintain a strong Wi-Fi connection. While outdoor wireless cameras are designed to withstand various weather conditions, it is best to place them in areas shielded from wind, rain, and direct sunlight whenever possible.

Leverage AI for enhanced video surveillance

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has enhanced the effectiveness of video surveillance systems over the past few years. For retailers, intelligent video surveillance is a significant advantage: when integrated with existing cameras, AI can significantly reduce the risk of theft.

This prompted Veesion, a French security company, to develop gesture recognition technology utilising AI. Our video surveillance software can automatically detect theft-related gestures in real-time. Pharmacies, supermarkets, department stores—Veesion has already equipped 3,500 shops in France and around the world. This innovative solution also complies with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Our software does not identify individuals; it only analyses gestures to provide greater vigilance for security personnel. The result is a substantial increase in the protection of people and property. Would you like to learn more? Contact us today!