More complaints about private video surveillance in Saxony

In Saxony, complaints about video surveillance are on the rise. "This year, the number of complaints in the first three quarters was around 250, which is 20 percent more than in the same period in 2024," explained Saxony's data protection officer Juliane Hundert. The increase is almost exclusively due to cases in which private individuals use cameras in the home. "Typical cases include the filming of public footpaths or tenant areas." In contrast, there are very few complaints about video surveillance by public bodies such as local authorities or the police.

Public spaces must not be monitored by private individuals

"Video surveillance conveys a sense of security, and I understand this need. It is also permitted in private areas under certain conditions," emphasized the data protection officer. However, public spaces or adjacent properties should not be monitored.

Many perpetrators are not deterred by cameras

"Anyone who wants to protect themselves against burglary, theft or vandalism should also bear in mind that many perpetrators are not deterred by cameras," said Hundert. The perpetrators would act under cover of darkness or cover their faces before committing the crime, making them difficult to identify on recordings. The installed technology often fails to achieve the hoped-for benefits.

Cameras can exacerbate neighborhood conflicts

"When it comes to disputes between neighbors, cameras tend to exacerbate an existing conflict rather than pacify it," the commissioner pointed out. It often goes unnoticed that video surveillance is an enormous intrusion into the privacy of those affected. Anyone installing a camera should carefully check whether and under what conditions video surveillance is legally permitted.

Data protection officer offers online seminar

The data protection officer will be offering an online seminar on the topic next Thursday. Interested parties can find out about the legal basis and options for stationary cameras on residential buildings, allotments or private property and send their questions in advance by email to oea@sdtb.sachsen.de. The link to the event will be published on Thursday on the website of the Data Protection Commissioner.