The term CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) is historical, it was first used to describe camera systems that were completely standalone and not inter-connected in anyway. Nowadays it is generally accepted that a CCTV system consists of several pieces of equipment including cameras, recorders and monitors and that some or all the equipment is accessible for remote monitoring purposes.

A scheme refers to a CCTV system that is run on one particular site. For example, this may be a single CCTV camera covering the entrance to a shop or a 32 camera system that covers a multi-storey car-park.

A scheme operator refers to an individual or organisation who has responsibility for the operation of a particular CCTV System. Often this individual/organisation will also be called the ‘Data Controller’, a term which refers to those responsible for adhering to all aspects of Data Protection Legislation.

Many CCTV installers, electrical and security wholesalers can supply our stickers and signage. They are also avaiable online from CCTV Bits

The Who Is Watching Me? website is open to all. Once on the site, click on the “Find a Scheme Operator” link or click here . By entering the unique serial number from the CCTV warning sign or sticker, a member of the general public can access the contacts details of the individual or organisation that is operating a particular CCTV scheme.

Although there are some exceptions (primarily private households and some organisations) there is a duty by all scheme operators to respect an individual's privacy and basic human rights. This means ensuring that if individuals are likely to be captured on a CCTV system, that they must to be informed of such using appropriate signage.

Private, domestic households are not bound by the Data Protection Act 1998.

The WhoIsWatchingMe signage provides an off-the-shelf solution for CCTV scheme operators. Unique serial numbered stickers & signs and a website registration process allows CCTV system operators to supply their contact details to members of the general public quickly and conveniently.

The scheme operators can amend their contact personnel details when staff leave the company, update contact telephone number or e-mail address at no extra cost to themselves.

Further information on the DPA & CCTV Code of Practice can be found on our “Downloads & Links” page or by directly contacting the Information Commissioner's Office.

• Web: www.ico.gov.uk
• Telephone: 01625 545740
• Fax: 01625 545748
• Post: The Information Commissioners Office, Wycliffe House, Water Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 5AF.

Yes further information and resources about the full DPA can be found on our “Downloads & Links” page.

According to the guidelines for good CCTV practice, when a person enters an area where CCTV images are being recorded of them, they should be made aware of this by visible signage.

Signage should be visible depending on how the person approached the area that is being recorded. An A4 Sign is suggested for positioning at ‘head height’ so that passing individuals can be made aware of a scheme. Where it is likely that passing drivers need to be kept informed of the operation of a scheme an A3 sign is suggested.

There is no specific legislation indicating how many signs are required but operators should remember their duty is to inform others of the existence of a CCTV scheme. Every access point to an area that is covered by CCTV should be signposted.

One of the great advantages of using the Who Is Watching Me? scheme is that the individual serial numbers can be re-assigned. In other words, if your details change you don't need to re-print expensive signs, you simply make the appropriate changes to your on-line account here.

This is also a great advantage where individuals are named as scheme operators; as staff move on there is no need to replace signs, simply update your details on-line.

Please see our “Products” page for individual Sign & Sticker specs.

Yes, you can register as many as you want that will all share the same site and contact details.