It’s all over the news this week. Amazon Ring have teamed up with some UK constabularies to give away free home security equipment. The tech in question is video doorbells.
These HD devices monitor your home day and night (using infrared vision). You will receive an alert on your mobile phone, laptop or PC as soon as movement is detected on or near your property. You can then view what is going on and communicate with any person on your property.
Suffolk
Suffolk Police had previously been given 50 devices (worth £89 each).
After the capture and conviction of two prolific burglars thanks to doorbell camera footage, they have now received an additional 200 video doorbell cameras.
Suffolk Police’s Head of Investigations, Detective Superintendent Andy Smith, said: “It is really pleasing to hear that residents are feeling safer, thanks to the installation of a Ring Video Doorbell. We hope the installation of these additional devices will deter burglars and help bring more offenders to justice.
“We are extremely grateful for Ring’s support once again. The devices will be distributed to further victims of burglary and those who live in areas of Ipswich we know are more susceptible to this crime.
“We will also be accepting expressions of interest from members of the community that feel they or someone they know, would benefit from being a recipient of one of the devices.
“Once again, I would like to remind the community that burglary remains a priority for the force and by installing even more cameras, we are actively working to increase the number of offenders convicted for this type of crime.”
Hertfordshire
Meanwhile, in Hertfordshire, the OWL (Online Watch Link) members can receive 20% off these cameras by purchasing through their not-for-profit security store.
Leicestershire and Humberside
Leicestershire and Humberside Police forces are also to be beneficiaries.
Pros and Cons of free home security equipment
Whilst on the face of it, this seems like a great thing for those who are previous victims of burglary, concerns are being raised over a couple of issues.
1. Whether it is right and proper for local Police forces to be seen to be endorsing or recommending specific suppliers.
2. Whether there is more to this than meets the eye as it increases the ability of the company supplying the equipment to track the movements of UK citizens.
