You probably remember the phrase "big brother is watching" from reading George Orwell's 1984 in high school. Is there any truth to the fiction?
Whether we like it or not, cameras really are everywhere, and we are constantly being filmed without our knowledge.
Of course, it's totally innocent most of the time. Surveillance cameras are used to keep stores safe of shoplifters or prevent intruders from entering private property.
However, sometimes hidden cameras are used for more sinister purposes — like being spied on.
If you've ever had the strange and indescribable feeling that you're being watched, it may help to know the most common places to look for these sneaky cameras hiding in plain sight.
Technology is always improving, which means cameras could honestly be anywhere. That said, there are certain places and products that are definitely more popular than others when it comes to hiding cameras.
Thumbnail Photo: Flickr / m01229
1. In The Car
A lot of newer cars have modern rearview mirrors with all kinds of smart features.
This is also a popular place to hide a camera. This might be the case if you're in a rental car, a taxi, or any car that isn't your own.
There are tons of affordable models to choose from, which makes it all the more likely that it could be in a car you're riding in.
2. In A Clock
Clocks are a good spot to hide cameras for a number of reasons. Namely, they are usually next to your bed or placed at a high vantage point.
Another reason is that clocks are on and running 24 hours a day, making them and their activity inconspicuous.
Companies like BrickHouse Security advertise their options as being for business or government, to give you an idea of who these devices are marketed to and where they might be.
3. In A Smoke Detector
A smoke detector is another device that is on all day and night. We're all familiar with that pesky flashing or beeping when the battery is low.
Smoke-detector hidden cameras are again advertised by BrickHouse security. Many of these are sophisticated enough to have internet connection to be able to livestream their feeds.
You might want to check into a smoke detector that looks off or doesn't match the others.
4. In A Hook
Interestingly enough, there are only 13 states that do not allow surveillance in dressing rooms, according to Legal Beagle.
That doesn't mean that you're necessarily being watched in every other state, but you could be without any legal consequences.
Some of the most popular areas for these cameras are inside of hooks that you hang your clothes on.
5. Inside A Mailbox
Have you ever been worried that someone is stealing your mail? Sure, it's a federal offense, but that has never stopped anyone before.
For this reason, people sometimes install cameras in the back of their mailboxes. This should only affect the person who is up to no good, but it's a good thing to know.
6. In A Pen
A pen spy camera is the type of thing children who aspire to be CIA agents try to get their hands on.
Today, they are more likely to be used as a recording device to catch a specific conversation or transaction.
People may keep these in their offices or homes just in case. Now you may know why someone didn't seem to mind when you accidentally stole their pen!
7. In A Teddy Bear
The camera in the eye of the teddy bear is the most infamous nanny cam of them all.
Parents might employ the use of nanny cams to see what's going on at home with child-care professionals if the kids star acting strangely.
Moreover, they're great for spying on pets, too. Just make sure your dog knows it's not a toy!
8. In A Picture Frame
The "hiding in plain sight" theme continues with this popular hidden-camera spot.
Plenty of frames with hidden cameras are available online and are used in homes, offices and everywhere else around the world.
Did you notice that picture frame blinking? It might not have been your imagination.
9. In An Outlet
While less mobile than some of the other options, an outlet is the perfect place for a hidden camera if you're considering access to a power source.
Most of the available models look like power strips that plug into your wall. Much like this one, they also work as real power outlets.
10. Inside An Air Freshener
Air fresheners come in all shapes and sizes these days. In fact, we probably don't even notice them most of the time until they emit their fragrance.
These products are made to blend in with their surroundings, and do a good job of hiding a camera.
Companies like BrickHouse Security have offerings that look just like the ones you can get at the grocery store. If you notice one that is not making the room smell great, you might want to give it a closer examination.
Be sure to SHARE these tips with your loved ones!
