Residents across Southern California are being urged to stay alert after authorities warned about a concerning trend: burglars placing hidden cameras in yards to monitor homes before breaking in.
According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Santa Clarita Valley Station, while their specific area hasn’t been heavily impacted, other nearby communities have reported incidents—suggesting this tactic is spreading across the region.
Here’s a simple, practical guide to help you spot suspicious devices and protect your home.
What to Look For Around Your Yard
Hidden cameras are often disguised to blend into outdoor spaces. Keep an eye out for:
- Small boxes, fake rocks, or devices tucked into bushes or planters
- Items that seem out of place or recently moved
- Objects pointed directly at doors, windows, or driveways
- Tiny lenses or reflective glass (similar to a phone camera)
- Sunlight reflecting oddly off a surface
- Devices mounted in unusual spots like trees, fences, or light fixtures
- Cameras hidden in birdhouses, sprinkler heads, or yard decor
- Wires or battery packs running into shrubs or along fences
If something looks off, trust your instincts—it’s worth a closer look.
How to Detect Cameras at Night
Some hidden cameras use infrared light, which isn’t visible to the naked eye—but your phone can help:
- Open your phone camera in a dark area and scan your yard
- Look for small glowing or purple dots
- Slowly sweep a flashlight across bushes, fences, and yard items
- Watch for distinct reflections from camera lenses
Behavioral Red Flags to Watch
Sometimes the biggest clues aren’t devices—they’re people.
- Strangers lingering around your property without a clear reason
- Individuals posing as solicitors but focusing more on your home layout
- Signs of “casing,” like flyers or objects left untouched near your door to see if anyone is home
Found a Suspicious Device? Do This
If you think you’ve discovered a hidden camera:
- Do NOT touch or remove it
- Take photos from a safe distance
- Increase lighting around your home
- Secure your Wi-Fi with a strong password
Then contact your local law enforcement agency for guidance. If you believe there’s immediate danger, call 911.
How to Prevent It in the First Place
- Keep bushes and landscaping trimmed to reduce hiding spots
- Regularly inspect your yard—especially after traveling
- Get to know your neighbors (shared awareness goes a long way)
- Install motion lights or a doorbell camera for added visibility
Staying proactive is your best defense. A quick check of your yard could make all the difference in keeping your home and family safe.
Frank
