The Expanding Use of CCTV Cameras is Becoming Scary

CCTV cameras are everywhere, but more often than not, that they are installed in such a manner that they are not readily observed. We very often, need to look closely and carefully to observe them. At times they may even be disguised. It may be seen as a contradiction, where the CCTV installation must not be very obvious, while at the same time the law can stipulate that you must post a notice that says the premises are monitored by CCTV cameras.

What is even now more intriguing is how many of these CCTV cameras are being used. There are several models of cameras that can be worn. It can become a bit discomforting, knowing that someone can be following recording your movements without your knowledge. What may actually become necessary is a law that requires an explicit statement that announces that your activity is being recorded, just as it a legal requirement to disclose when conversations are being recorded, but we also know that the authorities can legally be exempted, when they are legally allowed to wiretap telephone lines.

CCTV cameras are also being used in even more intriguing ways, as researchers are developing some novel ways to read your mind using a CCTV installation. The technology involves the use of imagining devices and predictive software algorithms, which can record and read your thoughts. A camera that can read your mind is scary, enough, but knowing that it can be done from a distance is even spooky. It is not too far-fetched to imagine that someone, who may thousands of kilometers away, may actually know what you are going to do before you actually do it.

This is no longer science-fiction, and it may much be closer to being reality than we think. The algorithm is built to recognize brain activity from facial expressions, and detect aggression. Other systems are making use of Microsoft's Kine ct gaming sensor technology, that analyses body movements, and can tell when you are about to kick or throw a punch. They are said to more than 90% accurate. The system was first created to detect violent behaviors in patients, but is found to be applicable when transformed for use in security cameras systems.

It may come as no surprise to know that some of the companies involved in the sponsoring the conferences where the systems are demoed, include Facebook and Microsoft. We cannot yet visualize what can happen when the systems and technology improve to become widely adopted. There may be tremendous benefits , from the use of remote sensing technology and research continues into upgrading the technology, with audio capability, so that that is can detect when you are angry and likely to commit violent acts.

The takeaway is that you can no longer think of a CCTV camera installation that is simply monitoring your activities. It may be much more interactive and capable of handling much more than you would think it possibly can.