Technically it’s not difficult for CCTV units and wireless IP cameras to be able to record sound, but most of them are sold without this feature for privacy protection reasons. In order to enable audio capture, the device requires a built-in microphone, two-way audio or an input option for an external recorder. The best way to identify whether a camera is fitted with the necessary technology for audio surveillance is to look at the title or read the main description; no devices will be sold without disclosing this information. When there is no mention of a built-in microphone or two-way audio then your only option is to attach an external sound recorder.
How to record audio efficiently
There is no clear distinction on which types of cameras are graced with added audio surveillance since both indoor and outdoor cameras can be fit with built-in microphones. The most prudent choice is to opt for an indoor IP camera with two-way audio so it can be used to both monitor guests and family members and intimidate any burglars. As for outdoor CCTVs, placing them up high – where criminals can’t reach them – will often result in poor audio quality, which is why so many homeowners favor the attachable sound recorder that can be placed closer to the ground.
Privacy issues
As alluded to earlier, audio surveillance potentially violates people’s privacy rights. The law differs between states, but the general consensus suggests that eavesdropping on someone without their consent is illegal in places with a reasonable expectancy of privacy, such as public restrooms and even another person’s home. That’s right, even if your target is just a guest in a building that you own, secretly recording their voice still constitutes as breaking the law. Additionally, you must be very clear about the fact that the surveillance equipment is capturing audio too; a single yard sign that mentions the cameras without specifying the active microphones won’t save you from prosecution.
Finding better alternatives
As you can see, these regulations will ruin the element of surprise when it comes to audio surveillance. Since you are walking on thin ice in this regard, only resort to such devices if you are willing to disclose them to your visitors. However, purchasing sound-sensitive alarms – like glass break sensors – and setting up regular CCTV cameras will promise roughly the same results. Another workaround is to program the device to have the audio surveillance triggered manually after receiving confirmation from your other alarms that someone has actually broken into your home.