Hidden cameras have become increasingly common in recent years, appearing in unexpected places such as hotel rooms, public toilets and even private homes. The use of these secret cameras can be a serious invasion of privacy, and it is important to know how to detect them.
Fortunately, there are several effective ways to detect hidden cameras. Whether you are staying in a hotel, using a public toilet or simply concerned about your own home, we have compiled a list of tips and tricks to help you detect hidden cameras and protect your privacy.
Best Simply Find Hidden Camera
There are several methods of detecting hidden cameras, but our tests have shown that using a thermal imaging camera is the most effective. With this method, you can quickly detect if there are hidden cameras and pinpoint their exact location.
When a camera is operating it generates heat, especially a hidden camera which has a relatively high temperature. Therefore, a thermal imaging camera can be used to detect hidden cameras. However, it is important to note that other electrical devices can also generate heat, so be careful not to misinterpret the results.
The disadvantage of using a thermal imaging camera for detection is that it can be quite expensive, usually costing in excess of $200.
Free Methods for Find Hidden Cameras
Quick Guide:
- Use an app to detect hidden cameras on your local network.
- Check the list of Wi-Fi networks for any unusual or unfamiliar names.
- Use your phone camera to detect hidden cameras.
- Use a flashlight to detect hidden cameras.
- Look for the most likely locations where hidden cameras might be installed.
Detect with App
Using a mobile app, you can quickly find out if there are any hidden cameras on your local network. The hidden camera is likely to be connected to the network to transmit and store video, so all you need to do is download an app to search for hidden cameras on your local network.
If the app does not detect any hidden cameras, your privacy is currently safe. Hidden cameras can only transmit real-time video if they are connected to a network.
Detect Wi-Fi
In most cases, when a hidden camera is not connected to a Wi-Fi network, it sends out a hotspot Wi-Fi signal. You just need to check if there are any unusual or unfamiliar Wi-Fi network names in your area.
- Open the Wi-Fi settings on your phone and check the list of Wi-Fi networks.
- Check for any unusual Wi-Fi network names.
- If you find any unusual or unfamiliar Wi-Fi network names, you can search the Wi-Fi name on Google for more information.
If you find Wi-Fi network names that include “cam”, “camera”, or meaningless numbers or letters, it is most likely the Wi-Fi network of a hidden camera.
If you find Wi-Fi network names in this format (xxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx), you can confirm that it is the Wi-Fi network of a hidden camera.
Detect with front camera
Turn off the lights in the room and close the curtains to make the room as dark as possible. Then open the camera on your phone and point it at the areas where hidden cameras may be installed. If you see bright spots on your phone screen, there may be a hidden camera. Turn on the lights to check further.
Note: Please use the front camera on your phone as the rear camera may filter out infrared light.
Hidden cameras often use 940nm infrared light, which is invisible to the human eye but can be detected by your phone’s camera.
Detect with a torch
Switch on your flashlight and hold it close to the suspected object where a hidden camera may be installed. Look for a visible lens or light reflection.
Environmental check
Hidden cameras are often located in the following areas, so it is recommended to inspect these areas:
- Ceiling (good line of sight)
- Lighting fixtures, electrical panels, smoke detectors, sprinkler heads, etc.
- Books and files on shelves
- Bathrooms and mirrors
- Televisions and audio equipment
- Undersides of tables and chairs
- Appliances and wall-mounted equipment such as clocks, air conditioners and fans
- Alarm clocks and decorative items on bedside tables
In summary, pinhole cameras are not 100% detectable using methods such as mobile phone cameras and apps, whereas hidden cameras can be easily and visually detected using Thermal Imaging Camera.
Of course, hiring a professional to check for hidden cameras is the best way to go.
