How to Know If a CCTV Security Camera Is On

If you’re wondering how to check if a store CCTV IP security camera is on or off, or how to know if a camera is watching you, here are six simple ways to help you determine if a CCTV security camera is on:

Observe Whether The Security Camera Is Moving: A pan-tilt type security camera will rotate when it’s on, and you will hear a distinct buzz when it’s rotating. If you have set up the patrol/tour function of the pan-tilt IP camera, you can see it moving constantly, indicating that the CCTV camera is recording.
Check the status of the LEDs in the IP security cameras: If it’s an infrared IP security camera, you will see small red lights around the lens of the security camera in the dark when it’s on. You can use a book or any cover to block the light falling on your security camera. If you see the lights turn red, it means that the security camera is on. (Why security cameras have red lights? Let’s find out.)
Log in to your security camera software to check whether you can view the live streaming: If the footage is showing up correctly, the IP security camera is on.
Use Electronic Bug Detectors: CCTV security cameras produce a balanced signal when they are on or in working status. A balanced signal is a video signal that has been converted for transmission along a medium other than coaxial cable. It’s also a pretty easy way to detect hidden cameras, or check if there are surveillance cameras are around.
Know If A CCTV Is Recording From Its Power Indicator: Some IP cameras or wireless IP cameras have a status LED, so you can easily tell whether the camera is working or connected to WiFi properly.
Identify Whether The Security Camera Is Real Or Fake: If it’s a fake security camera, it will never be on.

If you want to know how to tell if it’s a real or fake security camera, check out our guide on determining the authenticity of security cameras.