A “Dummy Cam” is used to increase the “deterrent factor” while keeping the expenses to the minimum. However, not all Dummy cams are really effective or “Dummy Proof.”
A common feature found among dummy cameras is that red blinking light located on the face of the camera. The light is installed simply to give the impression of an active security system, while it obviously does not serve any real purpose.
Is this wise? Since most real security camera systems don’t include a light, we think this is not a good idea.
When asked about this point, I shared that I have seen many of these cameras fail to fool even the average thief; they are certain to fail to fool the pros. The frustrated owners who had the dummy cams with the blinking lights are the most common to have buyer’s remorse! So we always advise our clients not to buy cameras with this fake blinking light feature.
We install dummy cams that are very effective, as we take the steps necessary to make them appear 100% authentic. We install them to match the systems so well that no one, not even the manufacturers of the genuine cameras, can see that they are dummy copies.
Other signs that a camera is not real or part of a legitimate security system is the presence of only one wire. In order for the camera to function as part of a valid security system, the camera needs one cable for power and another, separate cable to connect to the rest of the security system, i.e., monitors and recorders.
The next failed attempt is the moving camera. This fails because these dummies move at random instead of tracking an individual as a genuine camera of this type would.
Career criminals know these random moving cameras are phonies. Just don’t buy them.
Our Mulholland Security experts tell our clients that dummy cameras will appear legitimate to the educated career criminal when these three items are in effect:
Real Security Camera
• An actual lens with a real metal housing, instead of plastic housing
• A seal of authenticity on the side of the metal housing
• In a wall mounted camera, it will be installed to appear that the wires are coming and going into the wall mount. In cameras not wall mounted, they will use two matching cables consistent with real cameras. There can be zero difference.
Mulholland Security also promotes the usage of the “dummy dome.” This dummy is, externally, an exact copy of a genuine camera. In some applications it more effectively creates doubt in the criminal’s mind. This dummy meets all of the above points, and the housing is not a factor.
With this camera there are no lights, blinking or otherwise. There is no movement; so it is impossible to tell if the lens is tracking or not. Also a professional installation of either the genuine camera or its look-a-like dummy reveals no visible parts, wires, or anything going to the camera.
Therefore, this type of camera may afford more deterrence than the other dummy systems.
The more realistic systems are also more expensive so consumers must decide how much they wish to spend for the quality they desire.
Mulholland Security also recommends being thorough and including the usage of signage as a companion measure to the cameras.
The presence of signs warning that an area is under surveillance absolutely compliments the cameras as part of an overall security system. Again, it’s what the real systems do, and the pros know it!
Finally: it’s true that many people are opting for dummy camera systems because of their affordability, ease of installation, and almost non-existant maintenance needs.
However, please consider that professional thieves are usually educated in the various systems and typically recognize a fake. So, great care must be taken to make it match a genuine system. Bad dummy cams can “double cross” you when they are identified as fake by the criminal. He’ll be aware that other security measures are also likely to be for dummies.
There are also potential legal issues to consider. I am not a lawyer; you’ll need to ask yours for any facts or guidance before moving forward. Legal liabilities in public places are often a completely different situation. The public think they are real; the criminal determines they are not and commits the crime and someone is hurt or assaulted. Obviously, you would be asked for the video of the area for that time period. If your cameras are dummies you would not be able to produce them. In scenarios like this, uou quite likely have a legal situation.
In the worst case this may include injuries to customers and employees. And, as a consequence law, suits against the management company and the building owners.
Those who utilize such equipment must balance their desire to save money against the potential for injury and loss of property.
Always check with an attorney to make sure your implementation of any dummy camera or signage has you operating within the law, and doing what is right for your residents or clientele.
Feel free to call any time with any security questions or concern.
Sincerely,
Avi Ben David
President
Mulholland Security Centers, Inc.
Call: 888-Lock-Net
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