A Breakdown of the Nation’s Unsecured Security Cameras

A Breakdown of the Nation's Unsecured Security Cameras

  • By Sydny Shepard
  • Jun 22, 2016

With the inundation of security cameras coming to a head, there are more security cameras in use in the United States right now than there have ever been. In 2014, Insecam listed over 73,000 unsecured cameras worldwide with 11,046 of those belonging to the U.S., making the nation number one for unsecured security cameras.

As security cameras become more accessible and easy to install, security firm, Protection 1, set out to create a map of the top states and cities that are currently running cameras that are not locked down and can be viewed by anyone.

The top 5 states with unsecured security cameras are:

  1. North Dakota
  2. Washington, D.C.
  3. Montana
  4. Alaska
  5. Wyoming

The top 5 cities with unsecured cameras are:

  1. Walnut Creek, California
  2. Richardson, Texas
  3. Torrance, California
  4. Newark, New Jersey
  5. Corvallis, Oregon

Below is a heat map that demonstrates the widespread use of privacy-threatening open security cameras.

Factors like population density and security needs in cities probably factor into the prevalence of open security cameras. Protection 1 notes that it is interesting that cities known for their high-profile activities like international trade or technological innovation having taken the extra step to put a password on their security camera feeds.

Perhaps the most troublesome finding, from a privacy perspective, is that 15 percent of the cameras found to be unsecured were found in homes.

“Open security cameras are a widespread problem and should be a top concern for Americans concerned with their own privacy,” Protection 1’s findings said. “Even if you take particular care to remove the unsecured cameras from within your home, the grocery store you visit every week might be broadcasting your shopping habits to the online world.”

About the Author

Sydny Shepard is the Executive Editor of Campus Security & Life Safety.

Featured

  • The Evolution of IP Camera Intelligence

    As the 30th anniversary of the IP camera approaches in 2026, it is worth reflecting on how far we have come. The first network camera, launched in 1996, delivered one frame every 17 seconds—not impressive by today’s standards, but groundbreaking at the time. It did something that no analog system could: transmit video over a standard IP network. Read Now

  • From Surveillance to Intelligence

    Years ago, it would have been significantly more expensive to run an analytic like that — requiring a custom-built solution with burdensome infrastructure demands — but modern edge devices have made it accessible to everyone. It also saves time, which is a critical factor if a missing child is involved. Video compression technology has played a critical role as well. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in video coding standards — including H.263, MPEG formats, and H.264—alongside compression optimization technologies developed by IP video manufacturers to improve efficiency without sacrificing quality. The open-source AV1 codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media—a consortium including Google, Netflix, Microsoft, Amazon and others — is already the preferred decoder for cloud-based applications, and is quickly becoming the standard for video compression of all types. Read Now

  • Cost: Reactive vs. Proactive Security

    Security breaches often happen despite the availability of tools to prevent them. To combat this problem, the industry is shifting from reactive correction to proactive protection. This article will examine why so many security leaders have realized they must “lead before the breach” – not after. Read Now

  • Achieving Clear Audio

    In today’s ever-changing world of security and risk management, effective communication via an intercom and door entry communication system is a critical communication tool to keep a facility’s staff, visitors and vendors safe. Read Now

  • Beyond Apps: Access Control for Today’s Residents

    The modern resident lives in an app-saturated world. From banking to grocery delivery, fitness tracking to ridesharing, nearly every service demands another download. But when it comes to accessing the place you live, most people do not want to clutter their phone with yet another app, especially if its only purpose is to open a door. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.

  • ResponderLink

    ResponderLink

    Shooter Detection Systems (SDS), an Alarm.com company and a global leader in gunshot detection solutions, has introduced ResponderLink, a groundbreaking new 911 notification service for gunshot events. ResponderLink completes the circle from detection to 911 notification to first responder awareness, giving law enforcement enhanced situational intelligence they urgently need to save lives. Integrating SDS’s proven gunshot detection system with Noonlight’s SendPolice platform, ResponderLink is the first solution to automatically deliver real-time gunshot detection data to 911 call centers and first responders. When shots are detected, the 911 dispatching center, also known as the Public Safety Answering Point or PSAP, is contacted based on the gunfire location, enabling faster initiation of life-saving emergency protocols.

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.