Security cameras don’t have to be perfectthey only have to be smarter than the people they are meant to protect against. Dummy cameras make the assumption that it is the sight of the camera itself which sends burglars and other trespassers running. In that case, a prominently-placed, realistic-looking fake camera could be just as, or even more, effective than a hidden camera. While you know what they say about assuming, there’s no denying that fake cameras continue to be widely-available items, meaning that there is still a market for them.The most obvious benefit of dummy cameras is their price point. Users of fake cameras most likely figure, “Why pay for what you don’t need?” Dummy cameras start at around 15 online. The more expensive ones are the most realistic ones. Fake cameras come in all varieties, from dome cameras to mounted video recorders. Some dummy cameras may feature motion detectors or blinking LED lights to further the illusion.One downside of fake cameras, apart from the obvious, is that there may be legal issues involved if someone in need of assistance assumes that the cameras are real and monitored, only to be proven wrong. For this reason, and for an extra layer of security, it’s recommended to use a combination of real and dummy cameras, if you used dummy cameras at all. Place dummy cameras where they are most likely to be seenreal cameras can be placed in either visible or hidden locations. With both real and fake cameras installed, even if a trespasser takes the chance that all of the cameras are fake, he or she can still be caught in the act.Obviously, fake cameras are not recommended for use in high-stakes government or corporate areas, where an actual robbery or intrusion could result in severe financial, property, or physical damage to the company, its employees, or its customers. People living in neighborhoods or apartment complexesareas where burglars are likely to move on to another location if they see a camerawill most likely get the most use from dummy cameras. If you’re purchasing a dummy camera because of recent security issues in your area (such as a rash of robberies), it is up to you to consider whether a fake camera is adequate protection or whether a real camera might be necessary.