The Ultimate Guide to Securing Your Business With Security Cameras
Businesses are susceptible to financially devastating theft, break-ins, and other security breaches. Security cameras help deter these events by frightening criminals and providing visual evidence to catch them.
Additionally, surveillance systems allow business owners to monitor onsite activities remotely. This helps them address negative interactions or unfortunate accidents among employees and track product inventory – even while they are offsite.
Track Customer Movement
A security camera system can help you keep track of customer movements as they move throughout your business. Some systems have built-in motion sensors that activate automatically whenever they sense movement on or around your property. They can also record in real time so that you can check on any activity.
This is an invaluable tool for businesses that rely on sales and customer foot traffic to make money. By tracking the flow of customers, you can see if certain products are selling well, and you can even study shopping habits to improve your business model.
Security cameras can be installed indoors and outside to protect your business from different dangers. For example, you can mount surveillance cameras near entryways and exits to deter car break-ins and other crimes in your parking lot. You can also mount them inside your building to protect against robbery or other crimes committed by thieves who target employees.
As you search for the best small business security cameras, look for a security camera installation company that offers a wide-angle lens and high-quality video recording. You should also check whether your system supports onsite and cloud storage services, enabling you to monitor your business remotely. In addition, look for features that will automate your incident responses, such as event-triggered recordings and automatic alerts that notify you of any unusual incidents.
Deter Crime
Using security cameras is one of the finest ways to discourage criminal activities. These modern-day scarecrows let crooks know they’re being watched, and studies show that the mere presence of cameras can make burglars choose another target.
To maximize their effectiveness, place your cameras in high-visibility and high-risk areas and pair them with signs that make it crystal-clear that surveillance is taking place. It would help if you also looked for cameras with high-resolution and night vision capabilities and audio (most smart camera manufacturers offer two-way audio) and ensure they’re physically secure and cannot be manipulated or stolen.
Whether you’re a business owner or homeowner, security cameras allow you to keep a record of the activities on your property, which can be helpful in legal situations. For example, if there’s a dispute between you and your spouse or an employee and a customer, security footage can provide evidence to help settle the matter.
Many smart security cameras use artificial intelligence to distinguish between people and inanimate objects to avoid false alarms. If you’re looking for a more active form of deterrence, consider cameras with built-in sirens or speakers.
Identify Theft
When criminals know security cameras protect your business, they may think twice about committing a crime. If theft or vandalism does occur, surveillance footage can capture the suspect’s face and license plate number, enabling police to identify and prosecute them.
In addition to deterring theft, CCTV can also help you detect internal shrinkage by identifying which employees are stealing inventory or cash. If a store manager, for example, is a consistent source of loss, you can take steps to address the issue and stop repeat thefts from that individual.
Due to their frequent internet connectivity, security cameras are targets for cyberattacks. To mitigate this risk, ensure the system you choose encrypts live signals at the point of transmission and that you update the software regularly. Additionally, it would help if you looked for a security provider with solid cybersecurity practices and a history of customer satisfaction.
It’s essential to install security cameras strategically. For example, a security camera pointed at a back door or window can prevent unauthorized entry from outside. Similarly, a camera placed near the entrance of a parking lot can help protect employee and customer vehicles from vandalism or theft. It’s also a good idea to ensure all areas of your business are covered by placing cameras in hallways, reception areas, and the main entry points.
Monitor Employees
If employees are committing theft or other crimes at your business, security cameras can help catch them. In addition, surveillance can reveal patterns of behavior that indicate an employee is acting suspiciously or needs additional training.
Security cameras can also track employee performance. If an employee is underperforming or exhibiting inappropriate conduct, you can refer them to your human resources department for further review.
Many businesses find that the presence of security cameras encourages employees to work harder. The fact that they are being monitored can make employees more aware of their behavior and ensure that their actions align with company expectations.
However, it is essential to note that using security cameras in the workplace must be based on a legitimate business purpose. Nearly all organizations must enforce security, investigate illegal or improper conduct, or oversee onsite operations and productivity.
Additionally, businesses should communicate the purpose and location of security cameras to all stakeholders. Then, they should obtain written confirmation from employees that they understand and consent to using such devices for the stated purposes. Finally, they should keep camera systems on a secure network protected by firewalls and encryption to prevent hackers from accessing footage or other sensitive information.