Hidden cameras can be placed in objects such as paper boxes, clocks, bookshelves, and decorative trees. Photo: Irinsider.
In recent years, hidden cameras have become increasingly affordable and easy to purchase. They are useful devices in situations where security cameras need to be installed, television programs need to be recorded, or when a discreet angle is required, such as in hotel rooms or public restrooms. These devices are small and often concealed within objects, but there are still ways to detect hidden cameras using just a smartphone.
The first step in detecting hidden cameras is to carefully examine the environment. In bedrooms, common places for hidden cameras include walls, decorative objects, bookshelves, power outlets, and even the ceiling, such as near a smoke detector. Pay attention to the objects placed on higher surfaces, such as tables, chairs, cabinets, paper boxes, decorative pots, digital devices, and clocks
Some concealed cameras may reveal wiring, lights, or lenses. Additionally, if you come across any power outlets or adapters that resemble phone chargers and appear unusual or have an unclear purpose, unplug them. In addition to visual inspection, listen carefully while surveying the room. Some hidden cameras have motion sensors, which emit a faint buzzing noise when in operation.
A hidden camera concealed in a hairdryer, bathroom power outlet discovered in South Korea during an incident in March 2019. Photo: AP
The next step is to attempt to locate hidden cameras by turning off all the lights and using the phone’s flashlight to inspect the surroundings. Hidden cameras may have red or green LED lights that blink and are easily visible in low light conditions. Close the curtains and turn off the lights to make the room as dark as possible, then check for the presence of LED lights and use the phone’s flashlight to see if there is any light reflection from the camera lens.
Next, continue inspecting the room using the phone’s front camera. This lens does not have an infrared filter and can detect the infrared light emitted by hidden cameras. Phone users can download one of the many apps available for detecting hidden cameras, which are found on both the Google Play Store and the App Store. These apps will guide users through the necessary steps, some of which leverage the phone’s sensors to detect hidden cameras.
A hidden camera disguised as a ceiling fire alarm with a hidden recording feature, sold for 1.5 million VND. This is considered one of the hardest to detect hidden cameras. Photo: LK Store.
After inspecting the environment, check the Wi-Fi network. Most wireless hidden cameras connect to Wi-Fi to transmit signals remotely. To check how many devices are connected to the router, download a Wi-Fi scanning app. Hidden cameras usually appear as “unidentified devices” or have unfamiliar names. However, this method will not work with “offline” hidden cameras, which store data internally.
If you frequently travel or rent rooms, you may consider purchasing an RF signal detector or a specialized hidden camera detector for a quicker and more accurate scan. The price of these devices ranges from a few to hundreds of US dollars, depending on their features.
Before use, turn off and unplug all wireless signal transmitting devices, including kitchen devices, screens, routers, modems, and TVs, as they can potentially interfere with the detection process. Usually, the detectors emit beeping sounds when they detect signals, indicating the presence of an active device. When all other devices are turned off, this can be a sign of a hidden camera.
Source: Zing
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