It is no secret that cameras are getting smaller and smaller and this should be a matter of concern to all of us. Recently, it came to light that these spy cameras are being hidden in hotel rooms and public bathrooms. This is clearly a violation of privacy and people are actually making a living off these secret videos and photos.
Privacy violation is an issue that we are facing thanks to the improvement in technology. It is no surprise to hear large tech companies like Facebook being slapped with law suits concerning privacy every now and then. It is your initiative to ensure that you remain safe and that you take the necessary precautions.
These spy cameras are so tiny such that they can fit in some of these items; Smoke detector, AC power adapter, Alarm sensor, Telephone, Desk or standing lamp, Power outlet, Wall clock, Mirror, Alarm clock, Soap dish, Toothbrush holder, Tissue boxes, DVD player or other set-top box just to name a few. In this article, we are going to dive into certain methods that you can use to protect yourself and your loved ones from becoming a victim to these privacy violations.
Before we get into the article, always remember that better be safe than sorry. Never compromise on cheap hotels especially those with no ratings at all in order to avoid being a victim. Here are some of the ways that you can detect these spy cameras.
#1. Using your phone’s camera.
Like surveillance cameras, these spy cameras are also designed to capture in the dark. This thanks to an Infrared sensor in the camera. Infrared is not visible to the naked eye but it can be captured by your phone’s camera.
Before you do anything here is a simple test to see whether your phone’s camera will actually work since some phones have filters that prevent penetration of Infrared. First of all, open your phone’s camera app. Then point your TV remote towards the phone’s camera. As you do that press any button on the remote. If you see some light being emitted through the camera app, you are good to go. If not, try using selfie camera if you used the back camera in the first test and it should probably work.
If you are in a room and you suspect someone is watching you, first close the curtains and any other place bringing in a source of light. Once the room is completely dark, open your camera app and start scanning the room slowly. It can be a tedious and slow process but be patient. In case you see some light, like the one produced by the Infrared sensor on the remote, chances are it is a spy camera. Take a closer look, and once confirmed, you can report to the relevant authority.
#2 Using a flashlight.
Another sneaky method if you want to get these spy cameras is by using a flashlight. It does not have to be very bright, in fact your phone’s flashlight will just do. This method works by reflection and you should really scan the room slowly since you can easily miss a spot.
Since all camera lenses reflect some light at an angle, you are going to ensure first you are in a dark room so that unnecessary reflections are eliminated. After the room is pitch dark, just move your phone around until you get some reflection. If there is no reflection after multiple scans then perhaps there is no camera or it is well hidden. Either way I wouldn’t rely on this method 100%.
#3 Scanning your WIFI network.
This is one of the effective ways but it is a bit technical. First of all you need to download an app that can scan all devices connected to your network. A good one that will get the job done is Fing. It is available to both Android and IOS users. Once you have downloaded it, fire it up and let it do its magic.
After it has completed evaluating it will provide you with necessary information such as the device manufacturer, its IP address and the icon. From the information provided you can be able tell if it is a spy camera simply by checking the icon or the manufacturer.
If you suspect a device and you can’t seem to figure out what it is there is another solution. Note down the IP address of the device and download a Port scanning app. Once you have downloaded one run the IP address and the app should be able to give you the Port that the device is using. Once you have received the port, head on to your browser and enter the IP address of the device followed by the port in the following format. (For example, 192.168. 1.67:80) From here you should get further information about the device and if you are lucky you can get live footage straight from your browser if the device is a camera.
#4 Look around in simple hideouts.
The last option is just to look in simple hideouts. These places may include, Smoke detector, AC power adapter, Alarm sensor, Telephone, Desk or standing lamp, Power outlet, Wall clock, Mirror, Alarm clock, Soap dish, Toothbrush holder, Tissue boxes, DVD player or other set-top box just to name a few.
Make sure you pay attention to areas facing the bed and the bathroom. Leave nothing to chance and maybe you may encounter a hidden one.
Once you are done searching and none of these methods work may be paranoia may be eating you up but either way better safe than sorry. I hope this article has been both informative and educative.
The information is useful especially when someone gets into your private space without your knowledge
Spy cams are good quite useful to minimise theft in business premises
Thanks for the useful information