Summary
A number of surveys have examined the perception of closed circuit television (CCTV) system managers and the public in regard to CCTV’s crime prevention benefits. Although some see CCTV as a panacea to crime and disorder in public places, others view the growth of CCTV as an intrusion, with visions of an Orwellian “Big Brother” invading personal privacy. This guide provides an overview of the effectiveness of CCTV and addresses some constitutional and privacy concerns. The guide’s two appendices summarize much of the available research about the effectiveness of CCTV as a crime control measure.