tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80734410769992665922024-02-20T09:07:18.813-06:00All Things SecurityA chance to weigh in on all types of security issues.Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-89823671296263935662010-01-03T11:36:00.002-06:002010-01-03T11:52:19.243-06:00How to Catch a Thief in the Act!So you think you don't need a hidden camera in your office? Check out this hidden camera video!<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqMdBf_Nmbs">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqMdBf_Nmbs</a>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-91874023890916371452009-12-30T12:36:00.003-06:002009-12-30T12:43:48.301-06:00The Most Expensive Hidden Camera!<em><span style="color:#333399;">Want a completely <a href="http://www.premiumnannycameras.com/catalog/item/7247195/7483020.htm">invisible hidden camera</a>? Try the Eyeball Implanted Hidden Camera! Well, this method may be a little extreme for the sane...but it's definitely an eye-catching idea. Okay, bad pun.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">But seriously, this new technology for <a href="http://www.premiumnannycameras.com/">hidden cameras </a>has been developed for the blind. It involves a procedure in which doctors implant a micro-camera directly into the eyeball in an attempt to return sight to people with damaged or no vision. While this technology to restore sight was developed some time ago; the wiring and charging of these cameras was too bulky for a realistic application.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">Now, however, a nerve-stimulating chip can be implanted at the back of the eye, charging wirelessly and communicating directly to the camera inside the lens of the eye itself. This produces a totally covert electronic vision system.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">In stumbling across this latest advancement, I can't help but wonder how long it will take a hacker to tap into that video feed and see everythig the user is seeing. One person's nightmare is a hacker's dream.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">Think your $2,000 digital Canon was expensive? Well, consider yourself lucky you got away that easy, because this eyeball hidden camera is most likely the most expensive hidden camera out there!</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">And while 95% of the population will never need such and advanced device in order to see, I am thankful for the existence of that technology for the percentage that will.</span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-30407485630802564792009-12-29T11:21:00.003-06:002009-12-29T11:27:02.443-06:00More to Come?<em><span style="color:#333399;">As we come to the end of another year, we anxiously await the latest advancements in technology. The leaps and bounds that have been made this year include the Digital Video Recorder with remote access capabilities. So your hidden cameras for home are now viewable on any internet connection or iPhone! These are a hot item and are flying off the shelves for people who travel and like to check in on their property, mothers returning to work with the child and nanny at home, and business owners checking in on their employees. There are limitless applications and uses for this new technology, so don't miss out!</span></em><br /><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">I hope you all have a wonderful New Years and a fresh start to the next year ahead of us!</span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-49558973999218137592009-11-17T16:57:00.001-06:002009-11-17T16:58:37.412-06:00Nanny Abuse! Protect your children!<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/viW-ndUslIM&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/viW-ndUslIM&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-71244330774313507452009-11-15T17:05:00.003-06:002009-11-15T18:29:37.670-06:00SecureShot - When you need to know.<em><span style="color:#6600cc;">In case you haven't seen the latest, there is a technology that just came out called <a href="http://www.premiumnannycameras.com/secure_shot.html"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">SecureShot</span></a>. These are cameras hidden away in such a way that there are no more "tell tale" holes, lights or anything to make them suspicious looking. There are also no more SD cards sticking out the back or suspicious looking out of place jacks. This <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">SecureShot</span> line also has two cameras inside instead of one! The <a href="http://www.premiumnannycameras.com/catalog/item/7247195/7480647.htm">DUALLY</a> automatically and instantly switches from a Sony Super HAD Hi-Res color camera to a Sony Ex-View super low light B&W camera (.0001 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Lux</span>) when light levels drop below .5 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Lux</span>. The astonishing results are a great color video by day and a great low light video at night! </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#6600cc;">This ground breaking line of hidden nanny cameras with digital video recorders or (<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">DVR</span>) is security recording made easy and economical. Motion activated real time video or high-resolution "still shots" are recorded on a tiny SD card, housed in a hidden compartment. All recordings are time/date stamped for professional security applications. Each system also includes (2) 1 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Gb</span> SD cards! </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#6600cc;">These cameras are built expertly into more than a dozen different everyday items commonly used in a household or business environment so as not to raise suspicion.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#6600cc;">So if you're in the market for a state of the art hidden camera for your nanny, housekeeper, teen spouse, business, office or whatever, <a href="http://www.premiumnannycameras.com/secure_shot.html"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">SecureShot</span></a> warrants a second look!</span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-48884589627358069032009-11-02T16:58:00.004-06:002009-11-02T17:28:19.300-06:00What About Our Schools?<em><span style="color:#333399;">With nearly 1,000 cameras watching our students while they're in school every day, you'd think they are safe, right? WRONG!</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">If you have kidded yourself into thinking your child is safe, check out <a href="http://schoolshooting.org/">http://schoolshooting.org/</a> and you will see where the 340 shootings since 1992 have occurred. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">The majority of the recent shootings are assumed to have been gang related, which is a nightmare in and of itself. What bothers me is the fact that our children, our future generation is forced to pass like cattle through metal detectors and at times be subjected to pat downs. How did we get this far gone? Why is it necessary that every child is required to have an ID tag just to get on the school bus? Some even have radio frequency tags that track their movements in and around school! It seems to me that our school systems are turning into a daily prison for our children! </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">When you discover that school visitors have to keep visitors inside a "secure vestibule" which is reinforced with bulletproof glass until they are cleared to enter, it seems quite "prison like" to me. When we hear of the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">ridiculous</span> cases of six year-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">olds</span> being suspended for bringing a camping utensil to school, it seems like we are taking giant steps backwards in our children's upbringing and education.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">What is the answer when hundreds of cameras, metal detectors and security screenings are not enough? Are we forced to surrender our children daily only to wonder and worry whether we will seem them for dinner that same night?</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">If you're lucky enough to have the option of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">home school</span>, I would urge you to take advantage of it! </span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-24185198012584751972009-11-02T16:16:00.004-06:002009-11-02T17:27:42.675-06:00Is Our Country Secure?<em><span style="color:#333399;">When Obama says he plans to "monitor the situation" at the border, how secure does that really make you? </span></em><br /><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">I recently received an email about our Mexican border and how illegals have it down to a science when it comes to getting into our country. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm all for immigration if it is done LEGALLY! I have no respect for people who can't take the steps, learn the language, embrace our culture, etc. to become a true American citizen. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">Now, in this email were photos of the underground tunnels made by previous travelers. It also stated that the coyotes had scouts who would watch the patrols on the US side and give a signal to illegals and drug <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">traffickers</span> for when it was safe to pass. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">Now, I'm a little fuzzy on this one. Isn't the US, with all it's billions and advanced technology able to fight against a few scouts with binoculars? What is wrong with this picture? With trip wires, electric fences, hidden cameras, motion detectors and other technological advances, what is the problem? Is it just a lack of man power to patrol and monitor? I suppose there could be a few border patrol agents taking bribes, which is obviously a problem. But are we really not smart enough to fight against invaders on foot? </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">Yes, there are some serious drug problems in Mexico with all the cartels, and I genuinely feel for them. Of course, the US does have a federal plan committing $700 million to "bolster Mexican law enforcement and crime prevention efforts", so we are making an attempt to help them in their own country. And make no mistake! $700 MILLION is nothing to sneeze at! This federal plan is supposed to go along with the help the United States is already giving Mexico with training, equipment and enhanced intelligence cooperation. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">So with all this money and 1,000 troops on the United States/ Mexican border alone, not to mention the other police officers, federal agents and border patrol involved, why is it still so difficult to stop traffic along the border? </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">Now, I'm not trying to start a political debate or conspiracy theory, but it seems to me that either we have some very lazy border agents, or there is something else going on. It escapes me as to why anyone would want to encourage illegal immigration and bring more crime, drugs, mouths to feed and kids to teach into our already crowded country. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#333399;">Can someone PLEASE explain to me how and why illegals are still invading the United States?</span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-81059593450972905082009-10-18T14:39:00.003-05:002009-10-18T14:49:36.043-05:00Electronic Dog?<em><span style="color:#330099;">If you're interested in a quick no-nonsense security device and can't afford an entire system, this Electronic Secure Dog may be the best option for you.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">It has been said for years that the best way to scare off a burglar is to have a barking dog. It doesn't even have to be a big dog. The small <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">yappy</span> ones are sometimes the most effective. But if you live in an apartment, this is not always an acceptable option. Wouldn't it be nice to have a watchdog that you didn't have to feed, water or take on walks?</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Now you don't have to with the latest Electronic Secure Dog motion detector. Most units are less than a foot tall and require no installation. These units can apparently "see" through any object with their radar to detect any movement outside your building. And the barking is not on a loop, but will gradually get louder and more frequent as a potential invader walks around your house, apartment or office. The "dog" will stop barking if the intruder stops walking and will resume barking when movement is detected again! You can control the volume as well as sensitivity which can usually detect movement up to 20 feet. </span></em><br /><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">For under $100, this could be a valuable device for your home security.</span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-29316386803850090832009-10-18T14:14:00.004-05:002009-10-18T14:32:33.425-05:00The Latest in Choosing a Gun Safe<em><span style="color:#330099;">When is the last time you stopped to really consider what you would do if you heard an intruder in your home. Be it the middle of the night or during the day, it is wise to have a plan of action to defend your home.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">If you have guns, an ideal place for them is a gun safe. But what if that intruder comes to visit? Are you going to creep out of bed in the middle of the night only to find that you can see the keypad or combination lock on that safe? Time is of the essence when dealing with seasoned criminals, so it is worth your while to have a gun safe you can open quickly.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">I was a huge fan of the TV show Bionic Woman. The thought of that type of technology is astounding. Well, we are reaching that age of technology today. There is now a biometric gun safe that will scan your fingerprint and open immediately! The nice thing about it is that more than one fingerprint can be programmed into these "bio" safes, so you, your wife, and any grown children can have access to your safe at any given moment without delay. This option can be crucial when it comes to protecting your home; if caught unawares, you may not get the chance to defend your family.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">With the option of this biometric safe, it is no longer necessary to keep it on a high shelf out of reach from your children. You can keep the safe near your bed or even under it for quick access in the night. It is the best option for keeping your guns and ammunition completely safe from your children or anyone else who might have an interest in them. While I'm not a fan of violence, I am in favor of doing what is necessary to protect my family first and home second. When push comes to shove, I do believe I would act accordingly and defend what is precious to me. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">How ready are you?</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-74675611424595904352009-10-18T13:45:00.003-05:002009-10-18T13:55:44.382-05:00How Secure is Your Front Door?<em><span style="color:#6600cc;">So, how secure do you think your front door is? Would it worry you to know that the front door is the most likely place a thief will attempt entry?</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#6600cc;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#6600cc;">Okay, so you have smart key deadbolts, key codes, chain locks, peep holes and more, great! But with today's technology quickly advancing, we have been bombarded with bump keys. I'm sure you've all seen them used on cop or paramedic T<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">v</span> shows where the user gets in the house in seconds. Did you ever stop to think this type of key can be used on all of your "high dollar" locks? Scary thought!</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#6600cc;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#6600cc;">If you are inside your home, the best lock for you to install is a one-sided deadbolt. They are also called half-deadbolts or single sided. What this means is that you, being inside the house can lock the deadbolt, but there is no lock or entry point for this deadbolt on the outside of the door. So, none of the latest bump keys or drilling locks or any other type of intrusive tactics will work on this deadbolt. Of course, you won't have a key to it and will not be able to lock these deadbolts when you're away, but it will definitely ensure your safety when you are home. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#6600cc;">If you install one of these single sided deadbolts on every exterior door, you will have taken a simple step in giving yourself peace of mind in your home. </span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-24109351441865307942009-10-14T12:33:00.003-05:002009-10-14T12:42:10.560-05:00Snake Eyes<span style="color:#330099;">You want security for your home...who wouldn't! But when it comes to buying a home, a little proactive research can prove to be a life saver.</span><br /><span style="color:#330099;">There is a new product just up for your consideration. The <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Spector</span> made by Milwaukee is a tool that takes photos and video in tight spaces with a 1.3 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">megapixel</span> camera and LED light on a three-foot bendable arm. Sounds a little weird, I know, but the uses of this tool can be endless.</span><br /><span style="color:#330099;"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Spector</span> is mainly advertised to find leaks inside walls or under floors, which can save you thousands of dollars. But think of how many trouble spots this unit could find while you're searching crawl spaces and attics. </span><br /><span style="color:#330099;">Not to mention, the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Spector</span> could be quite entertaining if you could see through a keyhole or under a closed door with it. The applications are endless for this revolutionary snake eye!</span>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-73459534219577300842009-10-14T12:18:00.004-05:002009-10-14T12:33:44.989-05:00Party Time?<span style="color:#330099;">Think back to the last time you had a party at your house, office or apartment. Don't you wish you knew who spilled that blood-red wine on your nice cream colored carpet? Or how that antique coke bottle just happened to disappear? </span><br /><span style="color:#330099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#330099;">While hidden cameras are definitely useful for finding out this type of information, there is a new product on the runway you might want to consider. Sony Party-shot event photographer is a docked camera that pivots 360 degrees around and 24 degrees up or down searching for faces in the crowd. When it finds a face, it snaps a picture and then resumes it's search! </span><br /><span style="color:#330099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#330099;">Now, most people would buy this just for fun and would love the results. But, this unit could be particularly useful for solving those at fault for party mishaps or just for some reliable gossip material when the camera spots the married accountant flirting with the near-teenage temp.</span><br /><span style="color:#330099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#330099;">If you know who is socializing the best, you can plan your seating charts more efficiently, avoiding the uncomfortable silence at the table from the two unlikely characters that can't stand each other. This can also be informative for who you need to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">dis-invite</span> next time around!</span><br /><span style="color:#330099;"></span>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-40240238414049967442009-10-08T16:30:00.004-05:002009-10-08T16:39:02.545-05:00H.264 Compression DVR<em><span style="color:#330099;">If you haven't heard about the latest, here it is!</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">There is a new, state-of-the-art "S-Box" Series DVR that features superior video quality, iPhone integration, USB backup, and other unique features at an affordable price. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">This DVR allows real-time recording, playback and also provides picture quality that is unmatched by any other standalone DVR on the market. The superb clarity of the recorded video is made possible by the H.264 video codec. With the unsurpassed video quality, this series of DVRs also take up very little hard drive space. It also supports Internet Explorer for network preview and easy USB backup function. Other features include Email notification, DDNS, Alarm input, Alarm relay output, Audio recording and much more.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">This latest DVR includes software that allows you to access and monitor your DVR anywhere anytime! It currently supports the iPhone, Symbian OS, and Windows Based Smart Phones.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">The iPhone will need an application for this service which is available through Apple.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Imagine the ability to view the security cameras in your home, office or business from anywhere you travel! </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-42438208905128213912009-10-05T17:25:00.003-05:002009-10-05T17:57:12.772-05:00Are Satellite Cameras Watching You?<em><span style="color:#330099;">Ever wonder how powerful satellite images really are? </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">I'm sure you've seen the movies like Enemy of the State with Gene <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hackman</span> and Will Smith. How accurate this technology really is, I'm sure we'll never know, but it should make one pause to consider the possibility. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">You've all used or heard of Google Maps and Google Earth, right?</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">It gives you, the civilian a taste of what the government can see. The fact that we have access to these "fuzzy" images should give you an idea of what our officials and lawmakers have. If they can zoom in even further, they should be able to see you sunbathing topless in your backyard. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Now, I'm sure our government has more important things to do than spy on us in our own backyards, don't you think? The fact of the matter is, if they are looking at the house of a "person of interest" and you happen to live next door to them, you may be included in this surveillance. Does that bother you? You may not think it's a huge deal now because you don't have anything to hide. It bothers me, though.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">The fact that I can't live in the boonies and completely avoid our traffic cameras, ATM cameras and security cameras in every store if I so choose, gets under my skin. No matter where you live, you can always be found or spied upon. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">While I'm not a conspiracy <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">theorist</span>, this is a major invasion of privacy to me. The opportunity for abuse of this "surveillance" is too great.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Something to think about.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-52533372864258553402009-10-01T11:52:00.004-05:002009-10-01T12:25:56.619-05:00Do you want to be WATCHED?<em><span style="color:#330099;">If you've stepped foot outside your house at all in the last year, chances are you've been on candid camera from some type of surveillance system. They're everywhere you look, right?</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">There are usually at least 2-4 at an intersection. These can be used to monitor traffic patterns, catch red light violators and/or just to run every single person through a face recognition software. I know, you're thinking, yikes! While these monitoring cameras can sometimes be beneficial in clearing up who was at fault in a fender bender, it seems like an invasion of privacy. I'm sure I'm not the only one who drives with my visor down when I'm traveling through a big city. Not because I have something to hide! I just don't care to have my face analyzed 100 times in the course of a visit to Costco for my monthly food run. Call me paranoid, but I like my privacy and I don't like having the government involved in every aspect of our lives! </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">I know I'm not the only one, either. When the technology for police to monitor homes with infrared devices mounted on their dashboards came out, the public screamed "invasion of privacy"! And they were right to do so. While some crimes may have been stopped by using this technology, you and I both know that police are human just like the rest of us and would be tempted to check out every home in the neighborhood. The <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">likely hood</span> of them being able to watch your intimate acts would make you feel uncomfortable doing anything in the "privacy" of your own home. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Now, ATM cameras, I don't have as much of a problem with. It is a high risk area with cash being taken out by every single user. This temptation for criminals can make them salivate with anticipation. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">However, I'm sure I'm not the only one who has watched cop or forensic <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">TV</span> shows. How many times have we seen them solve a case or get a significant clue from an ATM camera? This may not happen quite as frequently in reality as on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">TV</span>, but the resource is still available. Again, I don't have a problem with using the ATM cameras to solve crimes, but it can also capture you hiking up your pantyhose or adjusting an irritating wedgie when you think no one else is looking. Seems comical, but it is still an invasion of privacy.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">It would be easier to list the places that DON'T use security cameras, but I'm fresh out of ideas for the types of businesses that wouldn't want to use them. Banks, kids arcades, hotels, supermarkets, any retail store, the list goes on....we've all seen the obvious security cameras. And while these do protect your business, I'm sure every security guard or camera monitor gets a huge laugh at least once a week from watching the clumsy idiot that tripped and fell flat on his face on aisle 3.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">It puts me constantly on guard...and I don't like that feeling.</span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-25312726589157479352009-09-28T19:00:00.003-05:002009-09-28T22:11:45.588-05:00The Driveway Report<em><span style="color:#330099;">Want some security options for the outside of your house?</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Your driveway is a great place to start! There are certain detectors or alarms that will tell you if someone or something comes onto your property via the driveway.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">The amount of different models and options can be confusing, so lets break it down.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">First you have your plain Jane hose model. This involves stringing a visible hose across your driveway. A signal is then sent usually to a wireless transmitter around 600 feet away to alert you of company. The down side is that being visible, someone walking onto your property will try to avoid stepping on it not knowing what it is. This makes your "hose" useless unless a car drives over it.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Second we have the beam models. These have a signal beam (think laser) and a receiver; when this signal beam is interrupted from the receiver, the homeowner is alerted to a visitor. This method is a little more reliable since anything moving in between will result in a notice being sent. The down side? Leaves in a storm, tumbleweed, any sort of animal, or kids playing in your driveway will set off your system any number of times.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Third, there are wired and wireless models that use magnetic probes. When a vehicle comes within 14 feet of this probe, a signal is sent resulting in a chime or series of beeps. The downside of this is that a person would not be detected coming through your driveway. It could possibly pick up a kid on a bike just because it can have metal parts. But there is no guarantee with this unless all you want to monitor are vehicles.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">The more advanced options for driveway alarms are sensors that, when activated will send a signal to a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">walkie</span>-talkie that also has a screen for viewing incoming traffic. On some models, up to four different locations can be monitored on this same <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">walkie</span>-talkie as long as all the units (including the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">walkie</span>-talkie) are within a two mile range of each other. I don't know how sensitive these sensors are. You could potentially get notified of every cat in the neighborhood wandering through your property at night.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">There are also several wireless brands that work on either 430 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">mhz</span> or 900 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">mhz</span>. These units can transmit anywhere from 1,000 to 4,000 feet. The probability of interference could be great with all the different wireless devices we have in our world today. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">What might be a great option for the small property owner is a driveway alarm with an adjustable sensitivity. This usually operates with a beam and can be programmed to ignore animals. The only downside is the transmitter is usually only good for 500 feet. So, in the country, it would be useless.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Last, but not least is a more affordable option. It works on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">PIR</span>, or passive infrared, which uses a wireless beam to transmit up to 1,500 feet away. These models can be as cheap as $150, which is very reasonable when you consider the peace of mind it brings to know when someone is coming to your door! </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">So, if you're always answering the door in your bathrobe and curlers, or the family pet is constantly escaping when the door is opened, these systems will give you some extra time to get prepared. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-77646550995083732172009-09-27T14:40:00.005-05:002009-09-27T15:27:11.099-05:00Best Thief Deterrent!<em><span style="color:#330099;">When you think of home security, do you think of the best deadbolts and locks on the windows? Well, it's time to come out of the stone age! </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Now don't get me wrong, these are essential to have, but there are so many other things available that can protect your home in more effective ways. And the majority of us probably don't think to install these extra security measures until it's too late and our homes have already been violated in some way. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">The best thing you can possibly have to scare away a thief is a high-pitched alarm. There are many different ways to install a burglar alarm. You can opt to install it yourself, which, if effective enough, can usually scare away a thief. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">And, of course, there are alarm companies by the dozen that will offer to set up your chosen system for you. These companies often require a monthly subscription to a service they provide, and this service will keep them apprised of any disturbances in your home. Usually your security system is set up to call the monitoring service automatically. The company then gives you, the homeowner a call to inform you that your alarm has been activated. Assuming you are at home, this situation can be an easy one to deal with. You check your house and surrounding area, then inform the security company that it is a false alarm. Alarm is silenced and no further action is taken. Usually if they don't get a response from your house, police will be dispatched to your residence to check out a potential break in. Sounds great, right? Well, sure, except when you stop to calculate the time spent on all these phone calls. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Suppose your alarm goes off and it sends an immediate trigger to the security company monitoring your account. The representative most likely has to look up your account to find your home phone number, right? 2 minutes tops. Then they place the call to your house. If you're not home, this phone call will last less than 1 minute. So then the security company tries your cell phone. There's another minute or two if you don't answer. The logical next step is to call the police, right? Assuming they dial 911 and are not put on hold, this call should take no more than 2 minutes. The dispatcher then gets on the radio to find the closest unit or dispatches someone that should be in that section of town. Now, we all love and respect our boys in blue, but we also know that they are only human and can only get to your house as fast as the traffic around them will allow. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">So let's tally this up. We're looking at at least 7 minutes until the actual officers closest to your home are notified that there could be a crime in progress. If you live in one of the larger cities, the response time will vary, but on average it will be at least 5 minutes. So there are <strong>at least</strong> 12 whole minutes for your burglar to run through your house grabbing your precious keepsakes and antiques. If you have the patience, sit looking at a digital clock for a full minute. Now multiply that time by 12 and imagine yourself doing absolutely nothing for that period of time while your home is being vandalized.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">The alternative? Absolutely have a burglar alarm connected to a monitoring service! My advice? Have your home equipped with hidden security cameras connected to a stand alone DVR that is remotely accessible via cell phone or internet. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">So let's try this scenario again. Your security company calls you within 2 minutes of your alarm activating. You then take around 1 minute to access your cameras from your cell phone or internet connection. Assuming you see a burglar or broken window in your video feed, you can immediately call the police on your cell phone directing them to your house. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Well, let's see, we made that call within 3 minutes! So you have saved around 4 minutes and have been proactive in the process. You could even place a call to your neighbors and direct them to yell outside that the police are on their way! </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">I don't know about you, but I would definitely opt for the remote access cameras!</span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-80567051675156621362009-09-26T22:57:00.003-05:002009-09-26T23:09:09.281-05:00Recall for Home Products<em><span style="color:#330099;">Well, the latest scare would be fire hazards in the home. Back in August, there were more than 200,000 Frigidaire and Kenmore smooth top oven/ranges recalled. This was due to the fact that over 100 reports were made about the stove tops coming on all by themselves! Even more astonishing was the fact that this wasn't some short where it would come on and go off immediately. The elements will just turn on without being switched on, and they will stay on! Talk about a fire hazard! Several people have even been burned, not realizing the burners were on. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">What if you weren't home? Suppose there was a dish rag or paper towel in contact with the stove top? How long do you think it would take for that paper towel to get hot enough to ignite? Not long enough, in my opinion! </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Access to your home's security cameras via a streaming DVR would save thousands if not hundreds of thousands in getting fire officials to your address sooner! If caught early enough, a neighbor could even break in for you and hose down the fire. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">While I hate to be obnoxious about the usefullness of security cameras, they are a definite necessity!</span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-89987359236098745512009-09-25T23:56:00.002-05:002009-09-25T23:59:48.028-05:00Flash Forward<em><span style="color:#330099;">I'm LOVING the new show Flash Forward! If you haven't seen it, make a point to!</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Take a look at the nanny getting busy with the boyfriend on the couch while the little girl is sleeping upstairs! Proves my point that even the most trustworthy employee or nanny needs to be watched. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Protecting your child, your security, home or investment should be your top priority. Covert cameras are now the new norm and it will take a load off your mind!</span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-8222462420309216702009-09-24T20:01:00.003-05:002009-09-24T20:13:20.074-05:00Security Logic<em><span style="color:#330099;">I recently saw an article about how Firefly is marketing a cell phone for 4 year old children! The phone has only five buttons and two can be programmed to call mom or dad. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Come ON people! Sure, my four year old had a blast "talking" on the phone. Did anyone understand a word she was saying? NO! Since when is a child that young in need of calling mom or dad? I can just see the preschooler whipping out a phone and chatting away with Mom at work or in the gym. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">These are <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">supposedly</span> brightly colored phones that can be programmed with age appropriate ring tones, but when is a child too young for a cell phone? </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">A lot depends on the situation and the maturity of the child, but I'll tell you what....no 4 year old I've ever seen is in need of a cell phone!</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">My vote, 12 at the youngest, but it's probably not necessary until 14.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Of course, my daughter is 6 1/2 and will, I'm sure, be begging at age 9 for a phone she saw her friend "using". Are we ruining their childhood? </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">And, shouldn't kids learn to write before they start <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">texting</span> and butchering, excuse me, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">abbreviating</span> every word in the English language?</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Keep in mind that 1/3 of teens in the U.S. have used their cell phone to cheat on school exams. Use your good judgement, friends!</span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-4804446251879799462009-09-24T00:41:00.003-05:002009-09-24T00:55:33.224-05:00A Rude Awakening!<em><span style="color:#330099;">Something you might want to know....</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Carbon monoxide and smoke alarms are among the essential items to install first in your home. Whether you just had your home built, or are buying a used home; your #1 priority should be to check the CO and smoke alarms before moving in.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">With over 400,000 fires in the US every year resulting in over 2,500 deaths, a $10 smoke alarm can be the best investment you've ever made! What's the reason I am suggesting a renewed vigilance in checking these alarms before moving in? Around 75% of deaths occurring from a fire in the home were in houses that had broken, disabled or non-existent smoke alarms.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Now, carbon monoxide deaths are much less frequent, but you could still be among the 500 Americans that die from it each year. The average alarm would cost you around $40, and is essential for any home that has fuel powered appliances. If you have any kind of flame related heating device in your home; anything that runs off of natural gas, wood, oil, gasoline or propane....PLEASE install a CO alarm! </span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-40096056056079593172009-09-24T00:24:00.003-05:002009-09-24T00:38:35.374-05:00Did you know?<em><span style="color:#330099;">Wow! Not only do these remote access <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">DVR's</span> (Digital Video Recorders) stream live video from your home's security cameras, the ones I carry are the only ones on the market with the capability to zoom and pan with your cell phone! </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Wouldn't that be neat! You log in to your video feed from your cell phone....and, Oh, isn't that cute! The cat is playing with something under the coffee table. But what is it? Now you can zoom in and see that your beloved cat is playing with the dead mouse she so deftly captured in your back yard. And she's doing it on your brand new carpet just installed last week! </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">So, if you live close enough, you can come home on your break and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">eradicate</span> the poor deceased animal from your living room carpet.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Well, OK, you might not do that, but what if you could access your video feed from the living room camera and see two sets of legs intertwined on your couch? Now you have the capability of panning and zooming in to watch in a horrified stupor while your nanny makes out with her greasy haired boyfriend on your couch. And...is that your 8 month old playing on the floor not 10 feet away?? I don't know about you, but I would break every speed limit in the state to get home and deal with that little scenario!</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Something to ponder...</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-77102727907447863302009-09-22T21:17:00.002-05:002009-09-22T22:06:50.515-05:00Reduce your risk!<em><span style="color:#330099;">We all want to keep our homes as safe as possible, right?</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">So put yourself in the mind of a thief. Unusual concept, I know....</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">But try it. If you were casing a house wanting to break in somehow, what would you look for? What specific features about a house would you avoid?</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">OK</span>, I'll state the obvious. I would avoid the well lit house with close neighbors, barking dogs, or the place that had a sign posted for a specific security company.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Let's touch on the first issue. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Lighting for a house can be one of the best <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">deterrents</span> against crime. And, you don't even have to break the bank with a large electric bill either. Your best bet are any kind of security lights that have a built in motion sensor/detector. This way, your property doesn't always have to be lit up like a Christmas tree, but can still be secure. Just make sure the switch is always on or hard wire the light. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">It has been proven that crimes are much less likely to happen when an area has sufficient lighting. This is one of the most cost effective ways to secure your home, as no criminal likes to be exposed by light.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Your best bet for positioning your lights are to keep them high with a wide range of visibility. It's a good idea to place them on several different areas of your home so that all access points will be thoroughly covered with light. It is also smart to put these lights high enough so that the average person cannot reach them and ruin the motion sensors.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Now, if you have money to burn, any kind of outdoor floodlight kept on all night will suffice. HID or High Intensity Discharge lights are somewhat energy efficient and will last quite a while. This will emit a blue-green looking light similar to Incandescent or Halogen lights. There are also high pressure sodium lights, these are the yellowish looking lights you often see in commercial parking lots. Instant on fluorescent lights are a great choice and you could also opt for metal halide lighting. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">The latest development is LED lighting, of course. I have seen motion sensored LED lights, but they are battery operated. Why anyone would want this is beyond me. Yes, the LED is the most efficient type of lighting, but the batteries could fail you at a very inopportune time!</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">You could also go with the solar powered lighting, although I'm not sure if they would be consistently bright the entire night. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">I'm partial to LED just because they are 85% more efficient than other lights, so whenever I can save a dollar here or there, I'm game! I also love the way the LED's look, but that's my personal opinion. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">So what method of lighting will serve your home the best? Take care to select a security light that has adjustable settings of "ON" time. You don't want your lights going dim too soon after motion is detected. A well planned robbery can work around this. But, some neighbors will get a little agitated if your nice bright light shines right into their bedroom window any time the cat prowls around at 3 a.m. If your lights are positioned to shine downward instead of outward, you will alleviate a lot of this hastle. Remember, you care more about your house being invaded than your lawn or carport! </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">The lives of you and your loved ones are more precious than anything you could possibly own!</span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-42957684827267226702009-09-22T16:13:00.004-05:002009-09-22T16:20:16.502-05:00Trick or Treat??<em><span style="color:#330099;">Those pesky trick or treaters!</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Want to know which neighbor's kid toilet papered your trees? What if some real damage was done? We all know teens tend to get a little rambunctious on Halloween. A hidden doorbell camera would capture all the Halloween activity around your house...all night long! So if your home does get vandalized or there is a nasty brown paper bag filled with...you know what....now you can know who did it!</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Who cares if you're not going to the police with a video of a toilet papered yard. Most parents would ground their child for the next month if they saw them on video harrassing someone or damaging their property. Even if it is Halloween and only a prank.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">To you, it's not funny!</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">You're the only one who is going to clean it up...Right??</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Protect your property.</span></em>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073441076999266592.post-26403907980447113112009-09-18T20:55:00.003-05:002009-09-18T21:32:58.477-05:00Business Hidden Camera Placement<em><span style="color:#330099;">OK, what about my business?</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Where can I put hidden cameras in my business, warehouse and office?</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">First of all, the bathrooms are completely off limits! Don't even think about it!</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">The rest is pretty much fair game. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">The break room is an excellent place to start. Who is spending all their time at the water cooler or stealing lunches? And how does your coffee supply dwindle so fast?</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Desks are a good placement for picture frames, work lamps, and boom box hidden cameras. Keep in mind, if it is placed on someone else's desk, it will most likely be moved from time to time, so check the video frequently.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Walls are better. A wall clock hidden camera is ideal for surveillance. This area is unlikely to be disturbed and once set in position won't need to be checked up on. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Warehouse....well, it depends. Is there a desk where everyone seems to gather? Is it all racks with pallets and a forklift coming in and out? Here again, a wall clock, exit sign or security lights might be your best option. Anything else in a high traffic area is likely to be moved.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Smoke breaks? Where do your employees congregate for their smoke breaks? Is it somewhere you could install a security light hidden camera? Is there a window nearby that could have a hidden camera on the window sill? The possibilities are endless!</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">What about that back storage room where no one ever seems to go? OK, so we all know the two main reason someone visits the storage room....for supplies and .....well, you know. Virtually any hidden camera can be placed here. Find out who is taking your supplies, if they are signing them out and keeping your inventory count accurate, and if someone is taking a little extra for themselves. There's also the office romance that can be kept in check!</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Hallways are a great option for wall clock hidden cameras or picture frames as long as the picture is something related to the business and not something that is obviously out of place. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">Stairwells are another good place for hidden cameras. In this day and age, everyone is sue crazy! Protect yourself and your business with a hidden camera clock or picture frame to ensure that you know what did or did not happen on those stairs. </span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;">It may save your business!</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#330099;"></span></em><br /><br /><br /><div class="js-kit-comments" permalink=""></div><br /><script src="http://js-kit.com/comments.js"></script>Andrea Markhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02106882223730698392noreply@blogger.com0