CCTV Cameras – the Encroachment into Everyday Life
There is CCTV technology lurking practically everywhere today, especially in the big cities such as New York City. There are people who step on and off train platforms during rush hour at Pennsylvania Station and Grand Central station in New York City everyday. These commuters are like regular guest on Closed Circuit Television.
After 9/11 the use of CCTV in public places has increased dramatically. many people are very concerned about this form of surveillance because they feel that it is a violation of ones privacy. Authorities argue that surveillance is beneficial because it helps protect people against crimes and terrorism.
CCTV or (Closed-circuit television), is a group of surveillance cameras producing video surveillance. This form of surveillance is different from the usual broadcast television. all of it is actually linked through cables.
CCTV is used at locations where there is an increased need for security. Banks, airports and government buildings are examples of high security areas. CCTV is also used in the military.
CCTV is not a new technology; it has been around for decades. CCTV was actually developed as a result of the IRA bombings that took place in the United Kingdom. There are claims that CCTV technology has reduced crime because criminals now know that they are being watched by the authorities.
At one time CCTV was developed to increase the security measures at financial institutions. Today this surveillance technology is a way of life, protecting homes, businesses and society in general. Since CCTV has become popular, a homeowner can easily have this system installed in their home. This form of surveillance is even used in restaurants, grocery stores, clothing stores and daycare centers.
Surveillance cameras have also been installed in taxi cabs in various parts of the country, to stop crime acts against taxi drivers. Since this technology has increased, many criminals and most terrorist have been on their p’s and q’s. more and more citizens are becoming used to the idea of being under the protective eye of surveillance technology.
The unanswered question remains of precisely how useful CCTV surveillance actually is. after all, there are no direct figures of crimes that never took place. however, regardless of the various questions that still overhang the use of CCTV cameras, the fact remains that they are increasingly becoming a part of everyday life in society.
