Video tampering detection is a setting within your security system (or IP camera) that notifies the CCTV operators/owners if somebody is trying to tamper with the camera.
Common examples of camera tampering include a sudden change to focus, a covered lens, or an intentional redirection of the camera’s view by physically moving the camera.
Tampering alerts are a useful tool that provide instant feedback when a camera has been compromised which enables the operators to take immediate action.
How does video tampering work?
The basic way video tampering works is simple. When the camera is first turned on it will take a few seconds to examine the scene.
After the examination process is complete the scene is locked and any alteration to the scene can cause an alert. Nowadays, with the help of intelligent analytics and AI, the security system is able to reduce to the maximum the number of false alarms or alerts.
Video tampering detection allows security staff to detect disrupted camera operation, by automatically alerting the operator when a camera is manipulated in any way.
The application is especially useful where there is a risk of vandalism, such as in schools, prisons, public transportation, and in harsh environments where weather, vibration, or dirt can disturb the camera performance.
Examples of video tampering incidents:
- The camera is physically hit and vandalized
- The camera is moved or purposely pointed at an unimportant area
- The camera is spray-painted or internationally covered
- The camera is unfocused or intentionally blocked
Not all camera tampering is intentional, sometimes accidents happen such as a tree hitting the camera or strong wind redirecting the camera.
Without video tampering alarms, it may take a long time before tampering is noticed, especially where one operator monitors multiple cameras or when the homeowner is away.
If tampering is not detected right away, significant incidents may go undetected and unusable video may be stored. However, with tampering alarms, there is an immediate notification when normal camera operation is disturbed.
When video tampering detection is useful?
The video tampering feature can be helpful in many situations, especially if you’re unable to monitor your security system 24/7.
Let’s say the camera view is obstructed or tampered with, you’ll get an instant notification on your phone and when you get to the location you can immediately address the issue. Using a phone or a tablet, you can monitor your cameras anywhere and at any time.
There are various ways how you adjust your tampering settings such as enabling the tampering feature on specific cameras only, get alerts via email, phone or SMS.
Also, the security system can send alerts to multiple people at the same time. Most CCTV manufacturers offer affordable security systems that support the video tampering feature, meaning you have plenty of options to choose from.
