Action cameras and other portable surveillance technologies
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Due to the Data (Use and Access) Act coming into law on 19 June 2025, this guidance is under review and may be subject to change. The Plans for new and updated guidance page will tell you about which guidance will be updated and when this will happen.
Checklist
☐ We ensure that we record footage in areas that individuals would reasonably expect, to prevent any unwanted intrusion of their privacy.
☐ We check that the device is secure, and any removeable memory cards where footage is stored, are securely fitted so they are not easily lost or stolen.
☐ We inform individuals by signage or announcements where possible, that we will be recording prior to collecting any footage.
☐ We edit or crop footage or both to minimise any risk of harm to others.
There may be instances where your organisation wishes to use more commercially available products, other than traditional CCTV cameras. Such products could include mobile phone cameras, web cams or action cameras. Popular branded products and other portable devices, are often used outside and can be attached to the user’s clothing or similarly attached to a mode of transport such as a bike.
Portable action cameras can provide a robust and versatile method of filming that traditional CCTV cameras are not suitable for, and present new ways in which you can process personal data. They do, however, have similar capabilities to Body Worn Video (BWV) cameras that are widely adopted in both public and private sectors. The systems you choose should offer the same levels of security and governance that other surveillance technologies provide when processing personal data. Any use of portable surveillance technology should still respect the rights and freedoms of individuals, and this should be explored in a DPIA prior to using the technology.