Fake security cameras have become a popular way to secure properties. The intimidation helps to prevent crime and have criminals second-guess their decision. However, there are key signs to tell if a security camera is safe that make them different than real cameras.
The six signs to tell if a security camera is fake are:
- LED Lighting
- Installation Location
- Security Camera Wiring
- Type of Security Camera
- Cheap Construction
- Motion Tracking of Camera
Once you learn these signs, you can easily tell the difference between real and fake security cameras. Keep reading further to discover a fake security camera’s purpose and its characteristics.
Why Do People Use Fake Security Cameras?
Many homeowners find security camera systems to be too expensive. Home security cameras require an initial investment for the system installation and a monthly charge for monitoring services.
According to Alarms.org, a home without security cameras is 300% more likely to be burglarized. Fake security cameras are a cost-effective option that gives the impression someone has a security system.
When you have a realistic fake security camera, you can have an effective deterrent on your property. However, someone can spot a fake security camera with a few signs if they have a trained eye.
6 Signs That Prove a Security Camera is Fake
1. LED Lighting
LED lighting is one of the easiest ways to spot a fake security camera. Real security cameras use infrared lighting during the night to improve visibility. A dummy camera will have standard red LEDs to mimic the design.
If you check a real security camera in total darkness, it should have a red light. Once it’s daytime, the light will stop as the system no longer needs infrared technology. You should have a fake camera with a red light that’s blinking to mimic a recording light.
The brightness of the LEDs is also a dead giveaway if the security camera is not real. Infrared lights have a subtle appearance that won’t catch anyone’s eye. Dummy cameras will have bright red lights that signal the system isn’t real.
2. Installation Location
Most manufacturers don’t design fake security cameras to handle the demands of outdoor environments. If there is a dummy camera, it will likely be in a safe location that won’t receive rain or harsh winds.
Real outdoor security cameras are constructed to prevent water intrusion and capture clear footage. An authentic outdoor security camera can handle the demands of harsh weather environments.
If you see a security camera in an exposed location, it’s likely a real product. When someone hides a security camera in a secure location, the installation may prevent a fake camera from filling with water and breaking.
3. Security Camera Wiring
While most fake bullet security cameras now come with fake wiring, there are still some ways to tell the difference. A real security camera needs a specialized ethernet cable that runs throughout the property.
Dummy security cameras will try to recreate this wiring with a cheap alternative that appears to be for indoor applications. If you can get close enough to a camera, it’s easier to tell the difference between real and fake.
The wiring was a dead giveaway in the past, but designers have become more innovative. This method also doesn’t work if the security camera is a dome-style option. If you can, you should look for other signs on this list.
4. Type of Security Camera
Every security camera has a unique appearance that someone can spot when looking around a neighborhood. If a criminal wants to know how to spot dummy cameras, they will likely look online at the various fake camera models and brand names.
Most people will choose a fake security camera that has the best reviews. Once a potential burglar knows the appearance of top brands, they can identify them easily. It’s best to choose a fake security camera that’s not top-rated.
Numerous companies only make fake security cameras and put a large brand logo on the side of their products. If you can, it would be beneficial to paint over or sand the logo on your security cameras.
5. Cheap Construction
When budgets are tight, most people choose the most inexpensive option for their home. However, cheap-looking fake cameras are a big signal that the product is fake and isn’t recording footage.
An ineffective security camera product will look like a children’s toy made of cheap plastic materials. Most real security cameras have a solid metal body that protects the product from the weather.
If you want an effective deterrent, you should invest in a better product. A faux metal finish can create the appearance of a sturdy metal camera. As home security experts, we listed our favorite high-quality fake security cameras.
Product | Features |
Power Gear Decoy Security Bullet Camera  |
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Blueskysea Fake Security Camera  |
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BNT Dummy Fake Security Camera  |
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WALI Dummy Fake Security Dome Camera  |
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6. Motion Tracking of Camera
If you are unfamiliar with security cameras, they will never swivel back and forth during operation. Some manufacturers install a motion sensor on fake cameras that give the impression the product is recording movement.
Movement tracking isn’t a feature in most real cameras, let alone a fake product. The movement tracking feature of fake cameras is nothing but a scare tactic for potential intruders, but it might work against you.
A real security camera has a wide enough angle that it doesn’t need to move physically. If an experienced criminal sees a moving security camera, they will know it’s a fake unit and target your property.
Frequently Asked Questions
Several fake security cameras have the appearance of authentic cameras. However, many budget products don’t have the features of a real camera and shouldn’t be installed on your property. A low-quality fake security camera can impact your home’s security and be a target for trained criminals.
Real security cameras have red lights that signal the infrared lighting feature activated by blinking. In most cases, the red lights will blink in the evening when the night vision settings turn on and off during the day. However, a bright set of red lights isn’t necessary and is a sign that the cameras look fake.
Security cameras will record around your property and save the captured footage. You will find security cameras on the perimeter of homes with durable construction. There is a wide selection of security camera options for your home. Whatever your choice, it’s best to invest in a high-quality system.
Conclusion
Fake security cameras have their purpose of improving home security. You can mix fake and real cameras to boost the overall presence of security cameras. However, a fake security camera has key characteristics that someone can spot.
If you are wondering how to tell if a security camera is fake, look for these six signs:
- LED Lighting
- Installation Location
- Security Camera Wiring
- Type of Security Camera
- Cheap Construction
- Motion Tracking of Camera
With these signs in mind, you can make better buying decisions and know if a property has fake cameras!