Do you get worried about having your privacy invaded whenever you use a hotel room, a public restroom, or an informal rental like Airbnb by assuming the presence of hidden surveillance cameras?
If yes, you are not alone. This is because 58% of the participants in a survey mentioned that their hosts might have hidden camera devices within their Airbnb.
Fortunately, you can find a hidden surveillance camera just with the help of your smartphone.
Wondering how?
Continue reading to learn the top five methods to do so.
Ways to Detect Hidden Surveillance Cameras
Use Your Phone Camera to Detect IR Light
When a camera needs to take photos or catch movement in dark or low-light rooms, it generally uses IR (infrared) light. Although IR light emitted by a camera cannot be detected by human eyes, the sensor on a smartphone camera should do it.
The first thing you need to do is to make your room as dark as possible. This is because it will trigger the IR of the hidden camera. Then, turn on the camera of your smartphone and start scanning the room slowly.
If there is a hidden camera equipped with IR, you should see a small light, either flashing or steady, on your phone. And if you see one, thoroughly inspect the area.
Use Your Phone’s Flashlight
Your phone’s flashlight can also help you detect a tiny security camera if it is installed in your surroundings. The lens of a camera always reflects light, which you can use to your advantage.
First, switch on the flashlight of your phone and point it to the area where you feel a camera is hidden. If you find any reflection is being generated from that area, take a closer look and inspect it manually.
Check Your Local Network
Not all secret security cameras are equipped with IR. So, if your room has a hidden camera that is not equipped with IR, checking your local network should help you find it.
First, open the native app store of your smartphone and look for “network scanner” or “network analyzer.” Once you find a suitable one, download and install it.
There are several network analyzer apps available in the market that you can use to see what devices are connected to the local network. These apps can easily find and list all the devices that are on a network.
You can also confirm the devices that you recognize. This lets you more easily detect a device that is not supposed to be on the local network.
Check for Network Disturbances
Many surveillance cameras emit radio waves that trigger network disturbances. For instance, if such a camera is present there, you may hear a buzzing sound or experience a crackling disruption during a call if you are close to the hidden camera.
To utilize this method, call a friend or family member and ask them to stay on the call. Then, slowly walk around the suspected areas and see if you get any interference. If the call quality is decreasing in certain areas, there may be a hidden camera.
Use a Spycam Detector App
You can also use a spy camera detector app to spot hidden cameras. These apps survey the suspected areas using your phone camera to find hidden gadgets.
None of these methods is foolproof. But they are highly effective methods to find a hidden camera just by using your phone. And the best thing is that even if there is a waterproof spy camera in your bathroom or a public restroom, all these methods will work perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to have a spy camera?
Whether it is illegal to have a spy camera depends on the laws of the country and state where you live. In many places, it is legal to have a spy camera as long as it is not used to invade someone’s privacy or commit a crime. However, it is important to be aware of the laws and regulations in your area to avoid any legal issues.
Can a hidden camera see at night?
Yes, some hidden cameras have night vision capabilities and can see in the dark. These cameras use infrared technology to capture images in low-light conditions. However, the quality of the images may vary depending on the camera’s specifications and the level of darkness.
Can hidden cameras see through walls?
No, hidden cameras cannot see through walls. They require a direct line of sight to capture images or footage. However, some cameras may be able to capture images through thin materials such as curtains or blinds.
Where do people hide hidden cameras?
People hide hidden cameras in various locations, including inside objects such as clocks, picture frames, and smoke detectors. They may also be hidden in common household items such as teddy bears, tissue boxes, or electrical outlets. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and check for any suspicious objects when in unfamiliar places.
