The problem with traditional security cameras, both CCTV and network cameras, is that local storage is easily tampered with if the intruder knows where to look. Whether images are stored in an SD card on the camera or a hidden NVR or NAS, the intruder has the opportunity to destroy evidence. There are many cases where security footage was not able to assist in solving the crime because the intruder had already removed or formatted the hard drive or SD card, as is often the case for inside jobs, said David Lim, CTO of Weltin Global.
Having off-site backups is best practice for any type of data, but that option may be too much trouble or too expensive for some user. That is why cloud-enabled home security products are so attractive. In terms of security, all images are stored safely in the cloud, so users do not have to worry about missing critical moments due to hardware failure or tampering. Users can also view live video via apps on PC or mobile devices.
The dropping prices of cloud computing platforms provided by the likes of Amazon, Google and Microsoft has made it much easier for camera makers to offer users the option to backup security footage to the cloud, Lim said. Weltin builds its cloud services on top of the infrastructure of IBM and Google, which removes a huge burden in terms of up-front investment, as well as security and reliability.
The security of cloud-based services has come under scrutiny over the past year or so due to Edward Snowden's revelations of NSA spying. The recent Heartbleed bug that affects some versions of OpenSSL also threatens the security of roughly one-third of all web servers. However, Lim says that none of Weltin's customers have reported any security breaches or expressed concern over the issue.
Aside from continuously uploading recorded images to the the cloud, Weltin's cameras also allow users to set the cameras to only record when sensors are triggered—any type of sensor. For example, the camera can be set to only record video when a bus driver steps on the brakes heavily, or when doors or windows are open.
Video surveillance has become increasingly pervasive, but the general public has come to accept it as a fact a life. Home security is different—security cameras that are intended to live inside a home need to value users' privacy. Lim says that privacy concerns are a non-issue, as it all depends on the application. “Obviously, you would not want to have a camera recording video in a bedroom, but it makes sense to have one pointed at windows or doors,” Lim said.
Weltin has mainly been focusing on developing its presence in the local Hong Kong market, but has begun to increase efforts to expand overseas sales, primarily in Europe and the U.S. Weltin will be introducing in the near future a complete home security kit using a USB Wi-Fi dongle attached to the camera and various types of wireless sensors. The wireless sensors will use the 433 MHz frequency. By the end of June, Weltin hopes to bring to market its video analytics appliance. It will offer basic video analytics features like motion detection and virtual fences.