Unfortunately, laser pointers have been used over the years by vandals to target “blind” outdoor security cameras.
While the effect is usually only temporary, it can nonetheless be a nuisance for security guards who have to constantly monitor the footage.
So, will a laser pointer damage a security camera?
It really depends on the type of laser pointer and the security camera.
Some lower-powered laser pointers may not do any damage to a security camera, while higher-powered ones could potentially burn out the sensor or break the lens. So it really just depends on the specific situation.
Read our guide to learn more about how to pick the right laser pointer to make sure you’re not accidentally damaging your security camera.
Will A Laser Pointer Damage a Security Camera?
Lasers are beams of heat that produce light. If a laser beam is continuously applied to sensitive materials like a camera sensor, physical damage can occur.
It’s quite difficult to turn off a security camera with a laser pointer.. The average laser pointer lacks the ability to disable the camera sensor.
Laser light is powerful enough for blinding security cameras, and their beams can be easily spotted.
It is possible to damage a security camera with a laser pointer, but it is very difficult to do so.
Can Laser Pointers Disable Security Cameras?
Unfortunately, the answer is yes. All surveillance cameras are susceptible to this problem and disabling security cameras with even low-powered laser pointers is possible.
If a criminal uses an infrared illuminator, a strong LED flashlight, or even a reflecting board at night (high-powered laser pointer), the camera will be unable to capture the photo.
The criminal can use any bright laser light source to reflect the light into the CCTV cameras. This will make it difficult for the security camera to take a clear photo.
How to Prevent Laser Damage
Take the following precautions to make your security camera laser-proof:
Install laser detection devices
These can be used to detect and track down the source of a laser attack. A laser detection device will set off an alarm when a laser is pointed at it.
Use Mirrors or Camera Lens Covers
Placing a mirror in front of the camera will reflect the laser beam away from the camera sensors. You can also use a lens cover to protect the camera sensor from damage.
Install infrared filters
IR filters block out most of the infrared light, making it more difficult for a laser to damage camera sensors.
Use IR illuminators
IR illuminators emit infrared light that helps improve the quality of images captured by security cameras. This will make it more difficult for a laser to disable the camera.
Install Outdoor Security Cameras
Outdoor security cameras are less susceptible to laser attacks than indoor ones. This is because the laser beams can be dissipated by the atmosphere before it reaches the camera.
Contact a professional
If you are concerned about your security systems being damaged by lasers, you can always contact a professional for help.
They will be able to advise you on the best way to protect your cameras from this type of attack.
Install physical barriers
Physical barriers such as shields and covers can help to protect your security cameras from laser attacks.
Why Do People Want To Blind Security Cameras?
There are a few reasons why people might want to disable or blind a security camera.
In some cases, it may be to prevent the camera from capturing evidence of a crime. In other cases, it may be because the person does not want to be recorded by the camera.
Whatever the reason, it is important to take steps to protect your security cameras from laser attacks.
While it is possible to damage a security camera with a laser pointer, it is very difficult to do so.
What Kind Of Laser Can Disable A Camera?
High powered laser pointers can disable a security camera. However, the average laser beams do not have the ability to do so.
Can A Green Laser Damage A Camera?
Yes, a green laser can damage a camera. Green lasers are more visible than other colours, so they are more likely to be spotted by someone looking for a way to disable a camera.
Are Blue Lasers More Powerful Than Red Lasers?
No, blue lasers are not more powerful than red lasers. Both colours of laser can be used to damage a security camera.
Do Laser Pointers Come With A Warning?
Yes, most laser beams come with a warning that they can damage eyesight. However, they do not typically come with a warning that they can damage security cameras.
If you are concerned about your security cameras being damaged by lasers, you can always contact a professional for help.
They will be able to advise you on the best way for security camera owners to protect their cameras from this type of attack.
Are Laser Pointers Legal?
Laser pointers are legal in most countries. However, there are some restrictions on their use in some places.
For example, it is illegal to point a laser pointer at an aircraft in the United States. This is because it can temporarily blind the pilot and cause a crash.
In general, it is legal to use a laser pointer for pointing at things like stars or presentations. However, you should never point the laser at someone’s face, as this can damage their eyesight.
If you are unsure about the laws in your area, you should contact your local police department for more information.
Conclusion
Security cameras aren’t really that easy to damage.
Vandals generally need to get close enough to do so, in which case a security camera with a proximity camera sensor and notification system should be able to catch them in the act.
If you utilize the strategies outlined above, laser pointers should not pose an issue for any security camera you own.
