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If you are looking to have a little bit of fun or solve a problem, such as someone stealing from your home, you may turn to spy gadgets.  These gadgets come in a number of different formats.  For example, you can purchase hidden cameras, also known as spy cams, hidden audio recorders, motion sensors, and much more.

There is more to using spy gadgets than just buying them.   Here are some important points you should take into consideration.

Know their purposes.  Spy gadgets can be used for fun, like a child with a remote controlled camera car.  They can explore the house from a new angle.  Spy gadgets can also be used to catch a cheating spouse or catch a burglar in your home.  They cannot be used for illegal purposes.  For example, if you are a landlord, you can install surveillance cameras on the outside of your properties and in common areas, but not inside rental units.  This is especially true with hidden cameras.

Know your state laws. It is your job to know your state laws or Federal laws. They do vary.  In some states and countries. For example in some states it is illegal to film a person without consent.  In others, it is illegal to film a person in a space were they should expect privacy.  In many states, it is illegal to utilize audio and video surveillance at the same time; typically, it is one or the other.

Spy gadgets all accomplish the same goal, but some are better than others.  For example, all hidden cameras will record activity in the area.  The quality is likely to vary.  Some spy cams have resolution that allows you to read the wording on someone’s shirt, but others you can barely make out their face.  For that reason always read the FAQ or directions before using the product.

Read the directions.  Yes, some spy gadgets are self-explanatory, but others are more complicated.  Did you know that some traditional webcams can be activated with motion or set to start recording at a specific time?  Some do have these features, but you must first know they exist and how to use them.  If you are spying on someone to solve a problem, like to determine if your spouse is cheating or if your neighbor is illegally entering your home, you want the element of surprise.  To get that, you need to know how to operate and use your spy gadget.

Put it away when you are done. If using spy gadgets for fun, there is no harm in leaving them out in the open.  If you want to spy on your teenager’s internet activity or catch a cheating spouse, put away your spy gadget when done.  For example, do you have a pen with a hidden camera inside?  Don’t leave it out in the open after you have discontinued surveillance.  The person you are spying on may later come across it.

Have a good excuse handy if you are caught.  As previously stated, if spying to solve a problem or answer a nagging question, the element of surprise is important.  You do not want the person in question to know you are spying.  If you use your spy gadgets properly and don’t make a big deal out of the situation, you should be fine. Still, it is always a good idea to have an excuse on hand.  For example, if you are caught with a pen with a hidden camera, just say you found it for sale and bought it out of curiosity to see if it would work.


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