In-store WIFI surveillance camera: installation and operation

Surveillance cameras have become indispensable in the face of the increase in shoplifting. New-generation cameras now operate via WI-FI. How do you install this type of camera in a shop? How are the images recorded and transmitted to a control device? Focus on this new security equipment.

Securing a shop with a surveillance system

To combat shoplifting, shop managers are looking to equip themselves with high-performance security devices: cameras, control screens, anti-theft gantries, etc. Why are cameras so important?

The benefits of surveillance cameras

For superstores, the aim is to support security staff. In smaller stores, this system makes it easier for the manager to monitor the entire shop directly. This means they don't have to recruit security staff.

Recording images

Cameras transmit live images. These are also recorded. This enables the security manager to intervene quickly if a theft is in progress. The recorded images are also used as evidence to establish that a crime has been committed. These images are useful if a complaint is lodged. All video recordings must be deleted after 30 days' storage.

The different models of security camera

There are different models of surveillance camera for shops. The most powerful is the IP camera, connected to the Internet. It can work with a management application and artificial intelligence, such as Veesion theft detection software. IP cameras are connected by wire, i.e. via an Ethernet cable, or via WI-FI.

How does a WIFI surveillance camera work?

There are several models of WIFI surveillance camera. Shop managers can use specialist service providers or buy a kit direct from a retailer. These cameras operate in a similar way. Prices vary according to the options chosen and the number of cameras.

Box and Internet speed

To operate professional video surveillance cameras using WI-FI, the shop first needs to be equipped with a router with a firewall, such as an Internet box. Bear in mind that the more cameras there are in the shop, the higher the Internet speed will need to be. Most WI-FI cameras operate on a 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency.

Power supply

Depending on the model, cameras can be plugged into the mains or run on a rechargeable battery. There are also models that operate using a solar battery. Thanks to these autonomous batteries, the cameras can be placed anywhere in the shop, with complete discretion.

Image quality

Images are admissible evidence if a complaint is lodged following a shoplifting incident. It is therefore important that they are of high quality. To ensure that the images are transmitted in high definition, we recommend choosing 4 MP or 5 MP cameras.

Data storage

Cameras broadcast live images. They are also connected to a video recorder (a server, the cloud). Images can therefore be stored, but must be deleted after 30 days under current French law.

Night vision

There are surveillance cameras with infrared LEDs. These allow colour images to be transmitted, even when the shop is not lit. This type of camera works equally well indoors and outdoors, and is weatherproof. They are useful at night, for monitoring closed shops, warehouses or equipment left outside.

The advantages of WIFI surveillance cameras in a shop

Compared with analogue cameras, IP cameras connected via WI-FI offer a number of advantages in terms of in-store video surveillance.

Installation with no prior technical knowledge

One of the major advantages of wireless cameras is that they do not require the intervention of a technician. The shop manager can order the kit that suits him best, and then follow the supplier's instructions.

Sending notifications

Thanks to the WIFI connection, in the event of an anomaly, the camera sends notifications to various control devices. Depending on the settings chosen by the shop manager, the monitoring device may be a smartphone, computer or tablet. The nature of the notifications depends on the choice of AI and/or management application.

Autonomous surveillance

Some surveillance cameras can operate autonomously 24/7. They simply need to be configured. The security manager remains informed of any anomaly, even if he or she is outside the shop.

Combining IP cameras with artificial intelligence

IP cameras can easily be combined with AI. These cameras provide the algorithms with huge quantities of high-definition images, whatever the lighting conditions in the shop, and continuously. In the case of the Veesion software, the aim is to quickly inform the shop manager if suspicious behaviour is detected, i.e. a gesture characteristic of shoplifting.

To sum up, WIFI-connected surveillance cameras offer greater autonomy to shop managers and/or security staff. Installation is simple and, with the right settings, users are alerted as soon as an anomaly is detected. Coupled with artificial intelligence, surveillance cameras optimise shop security, day and night. The high quality of the recordings means that the images become irrefutable evidence for intercepting an individual and for building up a file if a complaint is lodged.