Recently concerns have been raised by some residents regarding the installation of  domestic CCTV Systems by their neighbours. Whilst the police would endorse the use of such CCTV Systems as a means of crime prevention, users must be aware that they must not breach others privacy or the Data Protection Act.

Unfortunately the subject is a somewhat "grey area" regarding Data Protection. Whilst domestic systems are usually excluded from the requirement to Register with the Information Commissioner, this only applies to basic systems. Such Systems are usually a few cameras recording onto a simple VCR or Digital Hard Drive or being viewed directly on a Television or Monitor.

Should you however, have invested in a more sophisticated System then the police would advise that to safeguard yourself against breaches of the Data Protection Act you seek advice from the Office of the Information Commissioner regarding you equipment. Further details on how to do this are given at the end of this message.

Irrespective of the nature of the System there are eight Data Protection Principles with which your System must comply:

1. Personal Data must be processed fairly and lawfully.

2. Data can only be obtained for one or more lawful purposes and must not be further processed for incompatible purposes.

3. Data shall be adequate, relevant and not excessive.

4. Data shall be accurate and where necessary kept up to date.

5. Data shall not be kept for longer than is necessary.

6. Data shall be processed in accordance with the right of the individual under the Act.

7. Appropriate measures shall be taken to prevent unauthorised or unlawful processing of data and against accidental loss or destruction of / or damage.

8. Personal data should not be transferred to a country outside the European Economic Area unless that country ensures an adequate level of protection for rights

    and freedom of individuals in relation to the processing of data.

The police would also caution users of CCTV Systems not to photograph young children without consent from a responsible Adult. Recently in Central London several people have become involved with the police due to doing this (allegedly) innocently. We would not wish anyone to find themselves in this position as the result of a third party complaint.

The Office of the Information Controller is available at www.dataprotection.gov.uk or by telephone on 01675 545 745.

Will Coordinators please draw this message to any of their Members who operate CCTV Systems?