Thieves are increasingly finding ways to bypass CCTV systems, even in premises equipped with modern cameras and alarms. Security experts note that many thefts now occur not due to a lack of surveillance, but because criminals have learned to exploit vulnerabilities within these systems.
Kenyans.co.ke takes a look at some of the sophisticated methods thieves deploy in a bid to be ahead of any security mechanisms in place.
Signal Jamming
One sophisticated method involves the use of signal jamming devices to disrupt wireless CCTV systems, especially those that depend on Wi-Fi or mobile networks to transmit footage.
These devices emit powerful radio frequencies that block or overwhelm the signals used by cameras to communicate with routers, network video recorders, or cloud servers.
When jamming is active, cameras may appear to be functioning normally, but they are actually cut off from their control systems.
This can cause live feeds to freeze, prevent recordings from uploading to cloud storage, and stop motion alerts from reaching property owners or monitoring centers. As a result, the system appears to be working, even though it is effectively compromised.
This disruption provides thieves with a crucial window to operate undetected. In many cases, by the time connectivity is restored, the intrusion has already taken place, and no usable footage is available. This makes investigations more difficult and significantly reduces the chances of identifying suspects.
At the same time, criminals may also cut electricity supply lines, disable routers, or unplug cables before breaking in, knowing that many CCTV systems stop recording when power or connectivity is lost.
According to security experts, property owners are advised to counter such tactics by switching to PoE (Power over Ethernet) CCTV systems or cameras fitted with onboard SD storage, which continue recording locally even when network signals are disrupted.
Camera Placement
In addition to signal jamming, thieves study blind spots such as corners, high shelves, stairwells, or areas directly below cameras where faces are not clearly captured. In some cases, they deliberately approach from angles that avoid direct facial exposure.
Obstruction
Thieves also rely on low‑tech but effective methods such as spraying camera lenses with paint, covering them with tape, cloth, or plastic bags, and using laser pointers to temporarily blind or distort CCTV footage.
In some cases, criminals disguise themselves to reduce identification using hooded clothing, face masks, reflective materials, or caps pulled low, which can obscure facial features, while gloves prevent fingerprint traces even if captured on camera.
What to Do
Security systems experts warn that outdated or poorly secured systems are especially vulnerable. Weak passwords, default logins, and unpatched software can allow thieves or accomplices to access cameras remotely, delete footage, or turn systems off before or after a break-in.
Security professionals advise combining CCTV with multiple layers of protection, including physical lighting, secure locks, motion sensors, backup power supplies, and hard-wired recording systems.
Regular system checks and upgrades also reduce the risk of cameras being neutralised.
