Small Business Security Systems

Fake Security Cameras

Fake security cameras are an effective theft deterrent because most of us can't tell the difference between a fake and the real thing. But is installing a fake security camera really a good idea for a small business?

Affordable security cameras have revolutionized the business security industry.

Instead of spending thousands of dollars on advanced video surveillance, business owners can now purchase quality security cameras for a few hundred dollars. In an effort to save even more money, some business owners have opted to install fake security cameras. Even a twenty dollar fake can fool crooks and serve as a powerful theft deterrent.

But it turns out that fake security cameras aren't all they're cracked up to be. More and more small business owners are discovering that fake security cameras can actually have a detrimental effect on their security efforts.

Here are a few notable disadvantages of using fake security cameras:

• Loss of evidence. Cameras, even fakes ones, have a deterrent effect on crime. But what happens when the bad guys aren't deterred? If your camera is real, the police can use video surveillance records to track down and prosecute the offenders. If your camera is fake, it has no value to the police or the legal process.
• False sense of security. In addition to acting as a deterrent, cameras give employees and customers a sense of security. Fake cameras offer a false sense of security, and can breach the trust between you and the people you count on to make your business a success.
• Increased liability. Fake security cameras increase your company's legal exposure. If an employee or customer is injured during a crime, you could be liable for damages based on the false premise that the workplace was sufficiently covered by video surveillance.
• Decreased prevention. In some companies, cameras are monitored by security staff in real time. To save a few bucks, business owners sometimes sprinkle fake security cameras in with the real ones. The problem is that even a couple of fakes can leave your business vulnerable and devalue your investment in on-site security personnel.
• PR impact. If a crime occurs and word gets out that your security cameras were fakes, you will likely experience a whirlwind of bad PR. Companies who put cost savings ahead of customer safety generally don't fare well with consumers. It could take a long time to regain the public's trust in your business and your products.

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