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This year has seen an increase in the use of home CCTV systems, and with good reason. The UK has seen an 8% rise in general theft offences in statistic published by the Office for National Statistics. With domestic CCTV systems being more accessible and affordable than ever, it makes sense to have one in your home. Many of the systems on the market include a ‘pet cam’. A way for owners to view their pets whilst away from home. A great idea to see what your beloved cat does whilst you’re away. Some models even feature a microphone feature, so you can talk to them, whilst you are out of the house. But how does this apply to when using Nanny McPurr? I am a relative stranger, entering your home, whilst you’re out of the country; naturally you’ll be curious as to how I look after your cats and your home whilst you’re gone. I would be too. But can you spy on me? To put it bluntly, go ahead, please do! For me, it adds an extra layer of security of proving my job has been done properly should anything go wrong. I do not mind at all. However, you do have a legal obligation to tell me, if for nothing else, but to ensure that I don’t make any embarrassing faux pas on camera… I have been known to sing silly songs to the cats in my care and talk to myself as I go!  Caught on camera! Poppy enjoys a tune from me! This is because capturing images recorded by CCTV Systems is covered by the Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA). Under the new General Data Protection Regulations (2018) GDPR, every person has a right to know if their personal data is being used, by whom and for what reason. Recorded images from CCTV Systems are classed as personal data. Of course, you also have a right to protect your home.
An individual has the right to protect their property and this can be done by using a CCTV system where it is necessary, such as a security measure. However, the Surveillance Camera Commissioner (SCC) recommends that users of CCTV systems should operate them in a responsible way to respect the privacy of others. (Gov.uk, 2019). So basically, you just need to inform anyone who may be filmed by your cameras, i.e. me that CCTV recording is taking place. “Ensure that you are transparent to those around you when installing your CCTV system”. (Gov.uk, 2019). So to sum up, if you’re recording images, that is completely fine, just let me know, and don’t be scared if you see me with no make-up on at 7am on during Sunday morning visit! For more information on your responsibilities when domestic CCTV Systems visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/domestic-cctv-using-cctv-systems-on-your-property/domestic-cctv-using-cctv-systems-on-your-property#general-guidance |