Just like other crimes, a burglary can be a totally random event. However, when it's planned, there are certain things a burglar will look for when staking out a possible break-in, and there are steps the homeowner can take to minimize this risk.
This is a good checklist before leaving your home empty or for beefing up your protection against theft:
Study your house from the street, and look for any valuables that may be visible from the street. Don't give thieves a reason to show up.
Before leaving for any length of time, ensure that all windows and doors are locked, including the door to your garage. Many home invasion robberies come through garage doors and inner doors to the houses. Doors should have deadbolt locks with a one-inch throw and reinforced strike plate.
Place a piece of wood or metal in the track of any sliding doors to prevent opening.
Don't leave your house in darkness when you're away, create a sense of activity by using timers on lights, radios and televisions.
Install low-voltage lighting outdoors to keep your surrounding yard well lit. Install motion detectors in dark areas along the sides and back of house to alert you of any intruders.
Suspend your newspaper delivery while you're away and ask your neighbor to collect your mail. You may even ask them to park in your driveway while you're away. <
Never leave a message on your answering machine that says you're on vacation.
Keep any shrubbery near your walkway or entrance trimmed; removing any possible hiding places. Think about planting cactus or rosebushes under windows that may be especially vulnerable.
Advise your neighborhood watch that you'll be away.
Ensure your security system is activated when you leave.
Etch your name on all electronic equipment to serve as a deterrent as well as assisting police in the recovery your property. It's more difficult to sell stolen property that has the owners name on it. Make a video tape of your possessions and record the serial numbers.
Get a safe, not just for your jewels, but for important paperwork as well. Identity theft is a crime that's on the rise and you want to minimize any availability to your personal records.
The more you can do to deter an intruder, the better your chances are that your home will not be chosen as a target. Studies have shown that if it takes a burglar more than four or five minutes to break into a home, they'll move on. If you increase their vulnerability by adding a well-lit area or a barking dog, that minimizes your risk again.
Showing posts with label Home Security. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Home Security. Show all posts
Who Wants to Know What's Going On When You're Not There?
Wouldn't it be nice to know what is happing in your home or office while your not there?
In order to do so you need a surveillance system. There are many reasons why people need surveillance systems, so what's yours? Do you suspect a cheating spouse, or abusive nanny? Or maybe you have children or pets at home alone and knowing what they are doing gives you peace of mind.
No matter what your reason is, you just need to know. But what is it going to cost you? Using surveillance technology isn't cheap. From the cameras and expensive recorders to hardware components and maintaining a quality system you can spend anywhere from $700.00 to $10,000 and up. This amount of money may not be an option for you, and that's okay because now you have VISEC.
Developed by NASA level programmers, VISEC is a software that turns your existing home or office computer into a powerful, global-wide video surveillance system in 5 minutes or less.
Simply install VISEC on your computer and connect up to four cameras. Any webcam will connect directly to your computer through USB. Or connect any wireless or hidden camera with a digital video grabber like the GrabBee II. This is the bridge between your computer and camera.
Using your computer's IP address you can login from any Internet connection in the world an immediatly view live or past video. VISEC can record constantly or only when motion is detected. In motion detection mode you can set-up VISEC to alert you by email, cell phone or PDA when motion is detected. You can also set VISEC to record during a specific time. Companies use this feature during after hours. VISEC starts recording at closing and stops recording at opening.
In all recording modes VISEC can run as a stealth surveillance system. Just click the secret mode button and VISEC will disappear. In set-up you will be able to choose a hotkey that will allow you to bring VISEC back to normal operating mode. Operating in secret mode can help you catch a cheating spouse, abusive nanny or even a burglar. VISEC will record all the evidence you need.
One of the top features of VISEC is it's ability to FTP recorded video. You can FTP video to a server of your choice or VISEC's server. This insures that your video is safe in case anything happens to your computer. If your computer is ever stolen you can call VISEC and they will send you the video.
VISEC is a very easy program to use. Even people that consider themselves computer illiterates can operate this program. Best of all, VISEC has NO monthly fees. You can pay a one-time fee and receive a lifetime of free updates.
In order to do so you need a surveillance system. There are many reasons why people need surveillance systems, so what's yours? Do you suspect a cheating spouse, or abusive nanny? Or maybe you have children or pets at home alone and knowing what they are doing gives you peace of mind.
No matter what your reason is, you just need to know. But what is it going to cost you? Using surveillance technology isn't cheap. From the cameras and expensive recorders to hardware components and maintaining a quality system you can spend anywhere from $700.00 to $10,000 and up. This amount of money may not be an option for you, and that's okay because now you have VISEC.
Developed by NASA level programmers, VISEC is a software that turns your existing home or office computer into a powerful, global-wide video surveillance system in 5 minutes or less.
Simply install VISEC on your computer and connect up to four cameras. Any webcam will connect directly to your computer through USB. Or connect any wireless or hidden camera with a digital video grabber like the GrabBee II. This is the bridge between your computer and camera.
Using your computer's IP address you can login from any Internet connection in the world an immediatly view live or past video. VISEC can record constantly or only when motion is detected. In motion detection mode you can set-up VISEC to alert you by email, cell phone or PDA when motion is detected. You can also set VISEC to record during a specific time. Companies use this feature during after hours. VISEC starts recording at closing and stops recording at opening.
In all recording modes VISEC can run as a stealth surveillance system. Just click the secret mode button and VISEC will disappear. In set-up you will be able to choose a hotkey that will allow you to bring VISEC back to normal operating mode. Operating in secret mode can help you catch a cheating spouse, abusive nanny or even a burglar. VISEC will record all the evidence you need.
One of the top features of VISEC is it's ability to FTP recorded video. You can FTP video to a server of your choice or VISEC's server. This insures that your video is safe in case anything happens to your computer. If your computer is ever stolen you can call VISEC and they will send you the video.
VISEC is a very easy program to use. Even people that consider themselves computer illiterates can operate this program. Best of all, VISEC has NO monthly fees. You can pay a one-time fee and receive a lifetime of free updates.
Closed Circuit TV: Video Surveillance to Protect Our Security
We in UK are quite accustomed to moving around under other's surveillance than a general person in many third world
countries.
More than 400,000 cameras are always monitoring us in a car park, station, shopping complex, on our way to office or may be
even in our private spaces, unwanted. General people are day by day supporting its presence to fight against internal and
international crime.
In post 9/11 scenario, CCTV cameras are being installed more and more round the corner primarily for better and entrusted
public security.
This CCTV monitoring is widespread not simply in our own country. Recorders are being installed on the Trans Europe Motorway
from the Greek border through Turkey towards Ankara. This is covering a distance of 700 kilometres. This huge project
supports over 1,400 camera inputs and 480 audio channels and it is probably the largest networked recording Security
surveillance system contracted until today.
Fifty wi-fi enabled CCTV cameras are installed across central London that may revolutionize the police patrolling system
within 18 months of trial period. In recent future, police will be able to track a suspect from a handheld device as the
system can be controlled locally within that network coverage.
One thing must be mentioned here that, general people may also use such technology as IFSEC hand-held PDA applications
provide security personnel with the ability to view both live or recorded camera images from any installation, located
anywhere in the world.
However, this may end up the age long debate that these closed circuit TV cameras only can record a crime in progress. Now
the police persons will have more opportunity to reach the spot and take necessary actions on time.
Future really holds hard for drug dealers, peddlers, and an easy finder of parking spaces for citizens.
Nevertheless, currently there are no cost effective night vision systems available for object identification for distances
from 150 metres to 2000 metres. On the other hand, active infrared systems have a narrow field of view that makes navigation
and orientation difficult.
Still there are some cameras available in the market that can serve the purpose as good. These cameras are ideal for covert
applications since they utilises a laser light that operates below the visible spectrum to illuminate the target area.
However, it all depends on the needs of the users.
There is a good lot of software like EVIS that can provide tailor-made solution for the end users and is flexible enough to
meet all custom requests by the use of a modular system.
Is there any harm in taking protection beforehand if the users are conscious of their social limits and responsibilities!
Time to decide.
countries.
More than 400,000 cameras are always monitoring us in a car park, station, shopping complex, on our way to office or may be
even in our private spaces, unwanted. General people are day by day supporting its presence to fight against internal and
international crime.
In post 9/11 scenario, CCTV cameras are being installed more and more round the corner primarily for better and entrusted
public security.
This CCTV monitoring is widespread not simply in our own country. Recorders are being installed on the Trans Europe Motorway
from the Greek border through Turkey towards Ankara. This is covering a distance of 700 kilometres. This huge project
supports over 1,400 camera inputs and 480 audio channels and it is probably the largest networked recording Security
surveillance system contracted until today.
Fifty wi-fi enabled CCTV cameras are installed across central London that may revolutionize the police patrolling system
within 18 months of trial period. In recent future, police will be able to track a suspect from a handheld device as the
system can be controlled locally within that network coverage.
One thing must be mentioned here that, general people may also use such technology as IFSEC hand-held PDA applications
provide security personnel with the ability to view both live or recorded camera images from any installation, located
anywhere in the world.
However, this may end up the age long debate that these closed circuit TV cameras only can record a crime in progress. Now
the police persons will have more opportunity to reach the spot and take necessary actions on time.
Future really holds hard for drug dealers, peddlers, and an easy finder of parking spaces for citizens.
Nevertheless, currently there are no cost effective night vision systems available for object identification for distances
from 150 metres to 2000 metres. On the other hand, active infrared systems have a narrow field of view that makes navigation
and orientation difficult.
Still there are some cameras available in the market that can serve the purpose as good. These cameras are ideal for covert
applications since they utilises a laser light that operates below the visible spectrum to illuminate the target area.
However, it all depends on the needs of the users.
There is a good lot of software like EVIS that can provide tailor-made solution for the end users and is flexible enough to
meet all custom requests by the use of a modular system.
Is there any harm in taking protection beforehand if the users are conscious of their social limits and responsibilities!
Time to decide.
How Does A Home Security System Work?
Home Security System are used throughout the United States, people know what Burglar alarms are and what they are used for. Nevertheless they may not know how they operate. Let?s see how this protection system works in detail.
The Circuit
Home Security Systems are a simple electric circuit. To open or close a light, you simply throw a switch. In a burglar alarm it?s the same except the switch detects the movements of the intruder such as the opening a door or window.
Two categories
In a closed-circuit system, the electric circuit is closed when the door is shut. This means that as long as the door is closed, electricity can flow from one end of the circuit to the other. But if somebody opens the door, the circuit is opened, and electricity can't flow. This triggers an alarm.
In an open-circuit system, opening the door closes the circuit, so electricity begins to flow. Also in this system, The Alarm is triggered when the circuit is completed.
Magnetic sensor
A magnetic sensor in a closed circuit consists of a few simple components.
- a battery powering a circuit
- a spring-driven metal switch built into a door frame
- a magnet embedded in the door, lined up with the switch
- a separately-powered buzzer with a relay-driven switch.
Control box
The control box is hooked up to one or more alarm circuits, but it also has its own power supply. Once the alarm is triggered, the control box won't cut it off until somebody enters a security code at a connected keypad. In most installations the control box is kept in a veered place so that the burglar can't even think of disabling it then the alarm goes off.
The Circuit
Home Security Systems are a simple electric circuit. To open or close a light, you simply throw a switch. In a burglar alarm it?s the same except the switch detects the movements of the intruder such as the opening a door or window.
Two categories
In a closed-circuit system, the electric circuit is closed when the door is shut. This means that as long as the door is closed, electricity can flow from one end of the circuit to the other. But if somebody opens the door, the circuit is opened, and electricity can't flow. This triggers an alarm.
In an open-circuit system, opening the door closes the circuit, so electricity begins to flow. Also in this system, The Alarm is triggered when the circuit is completed.
Magnetic sensor
A magnetic sensor in a closed circuit consists of a few simple components.
- a battery powering a circuit
- a spring-driven metal switch built into a door frame
- a magnet embedded in the door, lined up with the switch
- a separately-powered buzzer with a relay-driven switch.
Control box
The control box is hooked up to one or more alarm circuits, but it also has its own power supply. Once the alarm is triggered, the control box won't cut it off until somebody enters a security code at a connected keypad. In most installations the control box is kept in a veered place so that the burglar can't even think of disabling it then the alarm goes off.
The Combination Lock
A combination lock is a type of lock in which a sequence of numbers or symbols is used to open the lock. The sequence is usually a specific permutation rather than a true combination. The sequence may be entered using a single rotating dial which interacts with several discs or cams, or by using a set of several rotating discs with inscribed numerals which directly interact with the locking mechanism.
Multiple-dial locks
One of the simplest types of combination lock, often used in low-security situations is the bicycle lock, which uses several rotating discs with notches cut into them. The lock is secured by a pin with several teeth on it which hook into the rotating discs. When the notches in the discs align with the teeth on the pin, the lock can be opened. This lock is considered to be one of the least secure types of combination lock.
Opening a multiple-dial lock without the combination depends on the slight irregularities in the machining of the parts. Unless the lock is machined precisely, when the pin is pulled outward, one of the teeth will pull more strongly than the others on its corresponding disc. This disc is then rotated until a slight click is heard, indicating that the tooth has settled into the notch. The procedure is repeated for the remaining discs, resulting in an open lock, and a correct combination, in very little time.
Single-dial locks
Combination locks found on padlocks or safes may use a single dial which interacts with several parallel discs or cams. Customarily, a lock of this type is opened by rotating the dial clockwise to the first numeral, counterclockwise to the second, and so on in an alternating fashion until the last numeral is reached. The cams typically have an indentation or notch, and when the correct combination is entered, the notches align, allowing the latch to fit into them and open the lock.
Combination locks of this type are generally more secure than the multiple-dial lock, but some of them do have weaknesses. For example, early combination padlocks made by Master lock could be cracked by pulling on the shackle of the lock and turning the dial until it stopped; each numeral in the combination could be revealed in this manner.
More recent models of Master padlock with a 40-position dial have a mechanical weakness that can give away the last numeral in the combination, and the first two numerals have a mathematical relationship with the last number. This weakness reduces the number of possible combinations from 64,000 to a mere 100, which can be tried in a relatively short amount of time.
Inexpensive padlocks are often susceptible to the use of a padlock shim, which can be used to release the shackle without entering a combination.
Other designs
Many doors use combination locks which require the user to enter a numeric sequence on a keypad to facilitate entry. These special locks usually require the additional use of electronic circuitry.
The main advantage of this system is that if used for the door of a large office, each employee can be told the code number without having to supply a key to each person.
The disadvantage however, is if the code number is discovered by someone out site the desired group or is not changed regularly, it could allow easy access to a potential intruder.
Multiple-dial locks
One of the simplest types of combination lock, often used in low-security situations is the bicycle lock, which uses several rotating discs with notches cut into them. The lock is secured by a pin with several teeth on it which hook into the rotating discs. When the notches in the discs align with the teeth on the pin, the lock can be opened. This lock is considered to be one of the least secure types of combination lock.
Opening a multiple-dial lock without the combination depends on the slight irregularities in the machining of the parts. Unless the lock is machined precisely, when the pin is pulled outward, one of the teeth will pull more strongly than the others on its corresponding disc. This disc is then rotated until a slight click is heard, indicating that the tooth has settled into the notch. The procedure is repeated for the remaining discs, resulting in an open lock, and a correct combination, in very little time.
Single-dial locks
Combination locks found on padlocks or safes may use a single dial which interacts with several parallel discs or cams. Customarily, a lock of this type is opened by rotating the dial clockwise to the first numeral, counterclockwise to the second, and so on in an alternating fashion until the last numeral is reached. The cams typically have an indentation or notch, and when the correct combination is entered, the notches align, allowing the latch to fit into them and open the lock.
Combination locks of this type are generally more secure than the multiple-dial lock, but some of them do have weaknesses. For example, early combination padlocks made by Master lock could be cracked by pulling on the shackle of the lock and turning the dial until it stopped; each numeral in the combination could be revealed in this manner.
More recent models of Master padlock with a 40-position dial have a mechanical weakness that can give away the last numeral in the combination, and the first two numerals have a mathematical relationship with the last number. This weakness reduces the number of possible combinations from 64,000 to a mere 100, which can be tried in a relatively short amount of time.
Inexpensive padlocks are often susceptible to the use of a padlock shim, which can be used to release the shackle without entering a combination.
Other designs
Many doors use combination locks which require the user to enter a numeric sequence on a keypad to facilitate entry. These special locks usually require the additional use of electronic circuitry.
The main advantage of this system is that if used for the door of a large office, each employee can be told the code number without having to supply a key to each person.
The disadvantage however, is if the code number is discovered by someone out site the desired group or is not changed regularly, it could allow easy access to a potential intruder.
What Are The Features Of A Home Security System?
Is your home really safe? When we ask ourselves that question we start to think about whether the safety measures we have taken are enough to keep our home safe. Prevention is better than the cure! Place an appropriate home security system to prevent your home from burglaries. Today, safety depends on how well prepared you are. With monitored residential security and alarm system, you can empower yourself and give your family peace of mind.
Alarm Statistics:
Government statistics have shown that around 60% of burglaries carried out on homes fitted with home security system are unsuccessful. Losses due to burglary average $400 less in residences with security systems. 90% of police believe alarms deter burglary attempts. This suggests that burglar alarms are a useful deterrent for prospective criminals.
Types of Alarms:
There are three types of alarms. They are a Burglar Alarm, Fire Alarm and Safety Alarm. These three are commonly found in electronic form today.
Features of Alarms:
- It detects intrusion, fire, burglary, and carbon monoxide presence.
- The alarm alerts you to a problem with a very loud beep and in some cases, is accompanied by bright flashing lights.
- Features also include, it beeps when doors or windows are opened.
- Fire alarm sensors are of three general categories: smoke, flame and heat.
- Safety detectors include thermostats for detecting excessively high temperatures, water sensors for flooding, excessive carbon monoxide concentrations etc.
- It can be activated and deactivated with either a simple turn of the key or a key pad control panel.
- Door alarms are relatively inexpensive and reliable.
- You no longer have to hire an electrician to run the wires through the ceiling or walls. Hence, many people now install their own door alarms.
Nothing is more important than protecting your home and family. There are many alarm companies that offer a wide range of services that can save your life and property.
Alarm Statistics:
Government statistics have shown that around 60% of burglaries carried out on homes fitted with home security system are unsuccessful. Losses due to burglary average $400 less in residences with security systems. 90% of police believe alarms deter burglary attempts. This suggests that burglar alarms are a useful deterrent for prospective criminals.
Types of Alarms:
There are three types of alarms. They are a Burglar Alarm, Fire Alarm and Safety Alarm. These three are commonly found in electronic form today.
Features of Alarms:
- It detects intrusion, fire, burglary, and carbon monoxide presence.
- The alarm alerts you to a problem with a very loud beep and in some cases, is accompanied by bright flashing lights.
- Features also include, it beeps when doors or windows are opened.
- Fire alarm sensors are of three general categories: smoke, flame and heat.
- Safety detectors include thermostats for detecting excessively high temperatures, water sensors for flooding, excessive carbon monoxide concentrations etc.
- It can be activated and deactivated with either a simple turn of the key or a key pad control panel.
- Door alarms are relatively inexpensive and reliable.
- You no longer have to hire an electrician to run the wires through the ceiling or walls. Hence, many people now install their own door alarms.
Nothing is more important than protecting your home and family. There are many alarm companies that offer a wide range of services that can save your life and property.
How To Buy A Spy Camera In 3 Easy Steps
I bet you are frustrated by the lack of information about spy cameras available on the internet. I sure was. There seams like there are just a few big companies who have blown their entire advertising budget to make a big splash. (This includes the X10 camera of the late 90s fame). Spy cameras can come in very handy to anyone who wants one (provided, of course, that they aren't used for nefarious activities). Spy cameras have tons of legitimate uses, and can come in especially useful for home security measures.
Here's how I use the internet to shop for a new spy camera.
1) Use multiple search engines to do your shopping. Just because something is featured on Yahoo doesn't mean that it is featured on Google and vice versa. A lot of the time, advertising bidders are very different on Yahoo and Google for the same keywords. Search different search engines to see different vendors selling on different sites.
2) Use specific shopping search engines like Froogle. Froogle is great because it allows the shopper to select among multiple different vendors who are selling similar products. Froogle is a shopping specific search engine that you can use specifically for your shopping needs. I've used Froogle on multiple occasions to compare and contrast the different product I'm looking for. If you can think it up, it's probably on Froogle somewhere. Spy cameras are certainly no exception.
3) Learn about the ins and outs of spy cameras. Spy cameras come in as many different forms as flavors of ice creams. You can find spy cameras that are basically disposable and spy camera systems that can cost over $1000. Learn all about them and the mistakes that people make when buying them. Points 1 and 2 above definitely can help you make a decision, however getting the real knowledge is what you will use to ensure that you get the best deal possible. Learn all about spy cameras and save yourself a bundle.
Here's how I use the internet to shop for a new spy camera.
1) Use multiple search engines to do your shopping. Just because something is featured on Yahoo doesn't mean that it is featured on Google and vice versa. A lot of the time, advertising bidders are very different on Yahoo and Google for the same keywords. Search different search engines to see different vendors selling on different sites.
2) Use specific shopping search engines like Froogle. Froogle is great because it allows the shopper to select among multiple different vendors who are selling similar products. Froogle is a shopping specific search engine that you can use specifically for your shopping needs. I've used Froogle on multiple occasions to compare and contrast the different product I'm looking for. If you can think it up, it's probably on Froogle somewhere. Spy cameras are certainly no exception.
3) Learn about the ins and outs of spy cameras. Spy cameras come in as many different forms as flavors of ice creams. You can find spy cameras that are basically disposable and spy camera systems that can cost over $1000. Learn all about them and the mistakes that people make when buying them. Points 1 and 2 above definitely can help you make a decision, however getting the real knowledge is what you will use to ensure that you get the best deal possible. Learn all about spy cameras and save yourself a bundle.
Plain Sight Covert Hidden Cameras
One of the uniquely inconspicuous ways to use covert hidden cameras is by utilizing the book camera. It is a wireless system that contains a high quality CCD camera and it fits in virtually anywhere you want to put it. Stick it up on the shelf with all of your other books or put it in a stack of books on your desk or credenza. No one will be the wiser.
Let us say that you like to have music playing in the background where you work. It doesn't matter if you like to listen to the radio or a CD player; there are boom boxes that contain covert hidden cameras that play both. With a line of site of up to seven hundred feet, this entertaining boom box can secretly keep an eye on what is happening and with four different channels available, you can run up to four units simultaneously. Whether you use it in the home or in the office, you will be sure keep your surveillance a secret.
Another clever way that covert hidden cameras are being used is in a special coffee mug. This item is ideal for interrogation rooms of law enforcement agencies, as well. The mug contains a tiny camera and video transmitter that automatically switches from color to black and white in low light situations. You can use up to four units at once and they are good for a range of up to one thousand feet depending upon the terrain and RF interference.
Let us say that you like to have music playing in the background where you work. It doesn't matter if you like to listen to the radio or a CD player; there are boom boxes that contain covert hidden cameras that play both. With a line of site of up to seven hundred feet, this entertaining boom box can secretly keep an eye on what is happening and with four different channels available, you can run up to four units simultaneously. Whether you use it in the home or in the office, you will be sure keep your surveillance a secret.
Another clever way that covert hidden cameras are being used is in a special coffee mug. This item is ideal for interrogation rooms of law enforcement agencies, as well. The mug contains a tiny camera and video transmitter that automatically switches from color to black and white in low light situations. You can use up to four units at once and they are good for a range of up to one thousand feet depending upon the terrain and RF interference.
How to choose a Home Security Camera
Taking the cue from the commercial segment many companies introduced home security camera a few years back, but, back then only the rich could afford the expensive home security camera systems. However, nowadays with development of technology, as home security camera is getting cheaper more and more people are able to afford them. Yes, today even a $30 cam can be turned into a home security camera, it's no more a rich only option.
When selecting a home security camera, make sure it can take clear pictures in the radius you want to set it up. Systems like analogue closed circuit television may run cheap but it's not worth the money. It saves recorded coverage to tapes which are not only expensive in the long run but will also take up a lot of space.
With the advent of internet and like I said earlier, development of technology, we have cheap yet good quality home security camera available that send live feeds to the internet and save coverage at a secured location. You can either watch the feds live or browse through the saved data at any point of time. Install two-three home security camera in a room depending on how big the room is and you can watch what is going on in your house from 5 miles or 5,000 miles away.
For those on a very tight budget, there are the fake home security camera which are very much like the original ones and some even swivel on their axis like the original ones but this strategy is only effective in preventing the crime rather than catching the crime.
However, if you aren't on a budget you should go for tiny cams which can be hidden behind or within objects and are hard to find. These cams when combined with the right software can give you the perfect home security camera system. On the other hand if you want to make it clear to the burglars that your house is not a good choice, install a large cam, a must do for people installing fake cameras, at a location where it can easily be seen.
CCTV: You Are Being Watched, No Matter Where You Are
It is thanks to IRA, the Irish Republican Army, for having paved the way for developing the concept of CCTV, albeit in a tragic way. The Royal British Army, in response to the IRA bombings has experimented using CCTV for years, including outdoors, since 1970s through to 1990s. Although exact numbers can not known, an estimate tells us that there are much more than 400,000 surveillance cameras on London streets alone.
Is It Just Military Surveillance With CCTV?
CCTV is extensively being used in security system of industries, banks, super markets homes and all such places which are perceived as strategically and financially important. Commercial establishments using CCTV have increased manifolds in UK although it is not so common in US as it is perceived as a privacy threat. New York City has about 4000 CCTV installations and most of which are in shopping malls and other public places such as Liberty Statue, Lincoln Express, British Parliament, and places of strategic importance. Traffic monitoring and prosecution & crime detection have leapfrogged with the advent of CCTV.
After All, Just What Is This CCTV
Well, CCTV is a closed network of small surveillance TV cameras which telecast and/or record anything in their field of view. CCTV networks are usually wired together and finally connected to one or more monitors. There will be more monitors depending on the importance of surveillance the cost factors. If you have lesser monitors than the number of cameras, they can be switched in a sequence onto monitor/s. CCTV cameras have capabilities to either record hours of footage they filmed or telecast in a short range at a particularly dedicated frequency which can't be intercepted by normal TVs.
After the tragic bombings in London Metro tubes last July, there has been an increased public demand for using DVR (digital video recording) cameras rather than traditional cameras with tapes. If you wonder how this would have helped the cause, take it here. Tapes were removed in the fortnight following the bombings for study, and follow-up attacks could not be recorded as a result.
Thinking of CCTV installation at your office? Take professional help and consult police if necessary. Some cameras can be hampered with or can be intercepted with cheap receivers. A complete installation won't cost more than $4000, which is nothing when security is uppermost.
A dog can be your best friend when it comes to home security.
The key is to secure the possible points of entry. This means that doors should be made of strong, solid material (definitely not plastic or glass), be properly secured to their hinges and have tamper-resistant locks. Ideally, you should have an extra deadbolt that you put on at night, made from very strong metal.
Windows should be made from toughened glass, preferably double-glazed, so that they are almost impossible to break. Although window locks are relatively uncommon, they help greatly with security, and you should consider installing them. If your house has windows in a position where they can be easily and discreetly accessed from the street, such as basement windows, you should consider putting metal bars on them.
It is also important for your garden to be secure, as far more burglars enter through the back of your house than the front. This means that your fences should be high and have some kind of anti-climbing measures (spikes or anti-climb paint can work well). If you don't like fences, get big hedges instead.
Another thing to consider is getting a dog – surprisingly effective against burglars, who don't generally want to mess with dogs if they can avoid it. For this strategy to be more effective, put up a 'beware of the dog' sign. Smaller dogs are not so great for this because they are not generally scary – something like a big German Shepherd works best, not only because of their size, but because of their strong guard instincts that cause them to be hostile to strangers.
Apartment Safety - Going on Vacation
· Remember, unless there is a Cop reading this over your shoulder, YOU ARE NOT SAFE! The police do a pretty good job of SOLVING crimes. They cannot PREVENT crimes. The your safety, the safety of your family, and the protection of your property is YOUR responsibility.
· One of the times your home is most vulnerable is when it is left empty for an extended period of time. Darkened windows, mail or newspapers collecting and closed windows in hotter weather all advertise your absence to a potential burglar.
· The best protection for your apartment during your absence is to have a house sitter. A friend you trust staying at your house can take care of your pets and/or plants in addition to making sure the house is inhabited.
· Have a neighbor check on your apartment while you're away -- turning on lights, radios or TVs and opening and closing curtains will give your apartment the appearance of someone home.
· If you don't have a friend or neighbor to housesit or check your apartment while you're away -- perhaps even if you do -- you should keep not only lights but a TV or radio on a timer. If you're like me and have your TV on almost all the time you're home [NOTE: I don't watch it, it's just background noise.], the absence of the sound and that glowing light in the windows announces that you're not there
· Make sure whoever is checking your apartment while you're away knows how to work your alarm system and who to call in case of a problem.
· Unless you have a house sitter, stop your mail and any newspaper or other delivery. Nothing announces an empty apartment better than a stack of newspapers or an overflowing mailbox. Ask a nearby neighbor to pick up any packages delivered while you're gone.
· If you have a garden or plants on your balcony, make sure someone is watering the plants regularly or put the plants where they can't be seen. Plants slowly dying due to lack of water may announce your absence.
· Check your lease. Many landlords require that you notify them if your apartment is going to be left empty for any period of time (this is so they can enter in case of emergency even if they can't reach you). If you've got a house sitter this isn't necessary.
Best Regards, Be Safe,
Craig
Home Security - A Thorough Approach for Protecting Your Home
A thorough approach to protect your home is to identify the types of protection equipment you will need and how this equipment can provide you with the most effective home protection at a cost that is most affordable without compromising you and your family's safety. A multi layer of protection equipment is the best way to accomplish your protection goals.
The first line of protection should be wireless security cameras for your home. With the technology available today, wireless security cameras are not only affordable but easy to install thus giving you control of your budget but also of your time. Depending on your personal needs and goals for protection, wireless security cameras are available to you in a variety of models; Black and White wireless security cameras, night vision cameras, network ip cameras, infra-red cameras and many more. The point is that what ever your needs are for home security, wireless security cameras should be your first line of protection for the home. As your first line of defense, visible wireless security cameras will give the overt protection that tells a would be burglar/intruder that he should go down the street to an easier mark and leave your house alone.
The second line of protection should be motion sensors, like wireless security cameras, motion sensors are affordable and easy to install. What a wireless security camera might see a motion detector will feel. Now you have both sight and feel protection for your home. Motion sensors are portable and mobile so you can place them in all the unique areas in and around you home, giving you the ultimate in home protection and detection. As the wireless security cameras give you sight and overt protection, the motion sensors will add the layer of covert protection when needed.
The third line of protection should be alarm monitors. Alarm monitors like wireless security cameras and motion sensors are also quite affordable and easy to install. Alarm monitors can give you both overt and covet protection. By alerting you to a would be burglar/intruder and creating fear when the unpleasant alarm sound is activated. The alarm monitors available today have many of features to meet your individual protection needs.
In addition to the above protection equipment one needs for there home protection and security, please always make sure of the following:
•You always should have appropriate lighting both in the front, back and sides of your home
•Your home should always have solid and sturdy doors
•Always have you windows locked and secured
•Take careful measures that your home is secure when vacationing and always stop you paper delivery and have some one pick up your mail or have the Post Office hold until you return
The first line of protection should be wireless security cameras for your home. With the technology available today, wireless security cameras are not only affordable but easy to install thus giving you control of your budget but also of your time. Depending on your personal needs and goals for protection, wireless security cameras are available to you in a variety of models; Black and White wireless security cameras, night vision cameras, network ip cameras, infra-red cameras and many more. The point is that what ever your needs are for home security, wireless security cameras should be your first line of protection for the home. As your first line of defense, visible wireless security cameras will give the overt protection that tells a would be burglar/intruder that he should go down the street to an easier mark and leave your house alone.
The second line of protection should be motion sensors, like wireless security cameras, motion sensors are affordable and easy to install. What a wireless security camera might see a motion detector will feel. Now you have both sight and feel protection for your home. Motion sensors are portable and mobile so you can place them in all the unique areas in and around you home, giving you the ultimate in home protection and detection. As the wireless security cameras give you sight and overt protection, the motion sensors will add the layer of covert protection when needed.
The third line of protection should be alarm monitors. Alarm monitors like wireless security cameras and motion sensors are also quite affordable and easy to install. Alarm monitors can give you both overt and covet protection. By alerting you to a would be burglar/intruder and creating fear when the unpleasant alarm sound is activated. The alarm monitors available today have many of features to meet your individual protection needs.
In addition to the above protection equipment one needs for there home protection and security, please always make sure of the following:
•You always should have appropriate lighting both in the front, back and sides of your home
•Your home should always have solid and sturdy doors
•Always have you windows locked and secured
•Take careful measures that your home is secure when vacationing and always stop you paper delivery and have some one pick up your mail or have the Post Office hold until you return
The Easy Method of Recovering your Sentry Safe Combination
I do not think there are any great number of people out in "forumlandia" that can take your Sentry Safe serial number and tell you the combination. Not only that, I certainly hope there are not a lot of people with a complete combination list!
It is really beyond me why people do not direct these inquires to place they purchased the safe, or to the Sentry Safe Company themselves! Maybe it is because they are hoping for the information for free, as Sentry requires a small payment and some paperwork.
Now before we get into the nitty gritty of how you can get help from Sentry, we might examine some other methods of opening your safe when your combination is lost.
My personal favorite is of course dynamite. Unfortunately, I cannot recommend the use of dynamite, however quick, it will likely cause you a lot of trouble, damage the contents of your safe and cause severe bodily harm to you and others.
Picking the lock would be a close second and good punishment for you forgetting the combination or buying a used safe without a combination; what were you thinking? Maybe a psychic can help you and confirm or deny your belief in them at the same time! Of course you could just sell the safe at a garage sale and let someone else worry about the combination!
You can also call a local locksmith, but I suspect it will cost more than following the simple instructions from Sentry. If you want to get the lost combination for free, I suggest you start trying all the possible combinations! Good luck!
Ok, we can be serious for a moment and this is all you need to get your lost combination from the Sentry Safe Company and avoid the mystery of psychics and the danger of dynamite.
Here are the easy instructions from Sentry: First step, find the Model and Serial Number of your safe.
The Serial Number is in this packet, and is also printed on the small label beside the door hinge (outside). Send a copy of the model number and serial number of the safe, a notarized letter (last name of notary must be different than that of owner) stating you are the owner of the safe, and a check or money order for $12.00* (U.S. funds) to:
Sentry Group, Dept. 200,
882 Linden Avenue,
Rochester, NY 14625-2784 USA.
If using a credit card (Visa/Mastercard only), call 1-800-828-1438
and fax your Model and Serial number with the notarized letter
to 585-381-2940.
Next time make sure you record the combination and store it in a secure place such as a safety deposit box at your bank. Opening your safe could be a lot more fun, but never more simple!
Home Security Systems - Best Way to Keep your House Safe
What can a home security system do? Well it can monitor a house 24 hours a day, and if something unusual occurs, it sends an alarm signal through the phone line. After the signal is received, a phone call is made to your house to see if everything is all right, and if no one answers or the incorrect password is provided then the local police is alarmed.
Setting a home alarm system up takes only one hour, and then it will work for months. It should be tested periodically however in order to make sure everything works just fine. In case a power failure occurs, the home security systems are equipped with a battery that can keep them running for 24 hours.
If you decide to purchase a home alarm system you should also follow some simple security rules. If you do so you can be sure that the chances that your house becomes the 'victim' of a burglary will be greatly reduced.
First of all you should always secure your windows and doors, because these are the places through which burglars enter the house. Their locks must be strong. Also, you should try not to keep things that may attract burglars outside, in order not to turn your house into a target. It would be advised to try to let people know that you own a home alarm system.
Furthermore, there are some other small things that can keep burglars away - always have outside lights turned on, so that burglars can't use darkness to hide, get a guard dog to watch over your yard, and talk to a neighbor to watch over your house while you are away.
But the home security system remains the best method to keep burglars away. It is a small investment that protects all the investments inside the house.
Network Security - The Real Vulnerabilities
Scenario: You work in a corporate environment in which you are, at least partially, responsible for network security. You have implemented a firewall, virus and spyware protection, and your computers are all up to date with patches and security fixes. You sit there and think about the lovely job you have done to make sure that you will not be hacked.
You have done, what most people think, are the major steps towards a secure network. This is partially correct. What about the other factors?
Have you thought about a social engineering attack? What about the users who use your network on a daily basis? Are you prepared in dealing with attacks by these people?
Believe it or not, the weakest link in your security plan is the people who use your network. For the most part, users are uneducated on the procedures to identify and neutralize a social engineering attack. What's going to stop a user from finding a CD or DVD in the lunch room and taking it to their workstation and opening the files? This disk could contain a spreadsheet or word processor document that has a malicious macro embedded in it. The next thing you know, your network is compromised.
This problem exists particularly in an environment where a help desk staff reset passwords over the phone. There is nothing to stop a person intent on breaking into your network from calling the help desk, pretending to be an employee, and asking to have a password reset. Most organizations use a system to generate usernames, so it is not very difficult to figure them out.
Your organization should have strict policies in place to verify the identity of a user before a password reset can be done. One simple thing to do is to have the user go to the help desk in person. The other method, which works well if your offices are geographically far away, is to designate one contact in the office who can phone for a password reset. This way everyone who works on the help desk can recognize the voice of this person and know that he or she is who they say they are.
Why would an attacker go to your office or make a phone call to the help desk? Simple, it is usually the path of least resistance. There is no need to spend hours trying to break into an electronic system when the physical system is easier to exploit. The next time you see someone walk through the door behind you, and do not recognize them, stop and ask who they are and what they are there for. If you do this, and it happens to be someone who is not supposed to be there, most of the time he will get out as fast as possible. If the person is supposed to be there then he will most likely be able to produce the name of the person he is there to see.
I know you are saying that I am crazy, right? Well think of Kevin Mitnick. He is one of the most decorated hackers of all time. The US government thought he could whistle tones into a telephone and launch a nuclear attack. Most of his hacking was done through social engineering. Whether he did it through physical visits to offices or by making a phone call, he accomplished some of the greatest hacks to date. If you want to know more about him Google his name or read the two books he has written.
It's beyond me why people try and dismiss these types of attacks. I guess some network engineers are just too proud of their network to admit that they could be breached so easily. Or is it the fact that people don't feel they should be responsible for educating their employees? Most organizations don't give their IT departments the jurisdiction to promote physical security. This is usually a problem for the building manager or facilities management. None the less, if you can educate your employees the slightest bit; you may be able to prevent a network breach from a physical or social engineering attack.
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