Whether you want to know if a camera in a shop is active, or you want to be sure your own CCTV system is actually recording, there are some simple signs to look for. This guide also answers common questions about what CCTV cameras can and cannot see.
Signs that a CCTV camera is working
- Infrared lights at night. Many cameras have infrared LEDs around the lens that glow a faint red in the dark. If you can see a dull red glow, the camera's night vision is on.
- An indicator light. Some cameras show a small status light when powered or recording, although many installers switch it off so it does not attract attention.
- Movement. PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) cameras visibly turn and zoom to follow activity.
- A click at dusk. Many cameras switch a small filter when they change between day and night mode, which can make a faint click.
- Connected cables. A camera with a cable running to a building is more likely to be live than one with no visible power or network cable.
- CCTV signs. Businesses often display signs showing that an area is under video surveillance.
None of these signs are certain. Many modern cameras show no light at all during the day, so it is safest to assume a camera may be recording.
Can CCTV see your phone screen?
Usually not in a useful way. Most cameras are installed high up with wide-angle lenses to cover a whole area, so a phone screen appears very small. A high-resolution camera placed close to and directly above someone could capture more detail, which is one reason cameras should be positioned for security, not to read screens or documents.
Can a CCTV camera see through walls?
No. Normal CCTV cameras, including infrared night vision cameras, cannot see through walls, curtains, or closed doors. Infrared light also reflects off glass windows, which is why cameras inside a window often show a bright glare at night instead of the outside view.
How to check your own CCTV system is recording
If you own a system, check these regularly:
- Open the playback in the mobile app or on the recorder and confirm there is footage from every camera for the last few days.
- Check the hard drive status in the recorder settings. A failed or missing drive means nothing is being saved.
- Confirm the recording mode: continuous, motion, or scheduled, and that the schedule covers the hours you need.
- Check the date and time on the recorder, so recordings are easy to find when you need them.
- Test night footage after dark, to make sure infrared or colour night vision works for every camera.
- Protect against power cuts with a UPS for the recorder and network equipment.
Recorders can also send an alert to your phone when a hard drive fails or a camera goes offline. It is worth setting this up so problems are caught early.
Respect privacy with your own cameras
If you install CCTV at home, point cameras at your own property: gates, doors, driveways, and walls. Avoid aiming them into neighbours' homes or gardens, and never place cameras in private areas such as bathrooms or bedrooms. Our guide to planning CCTV placement explains where cameras work best.
Want a system you can trust?
A professional installation includes checking that every camera records clearly day and night and that you can view footage on your phone. Learn about our CCTV installation service, read what is CCTV and how does it work, or contact us for a free site survey.