PEOPLE are only just realising their Ring doorbells could be breaking the law.
The home security technology could land its users in legal hot water as it risks breaking data protection laws.
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Recording into a neighbour’s home and recording footage of their children are two examples which can cause legal complications.
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), which oversees consumer rights around information and data, said: “People have the right to install CCTV cameras and smart doorbells on their property.
“They should try to point cameras away from neighbours’ homes and gardens, shared spaces or public streets.
“But this is not always possible, and it is not illegal to do so.”
Elisabeth Bell, partner at law firm Blake Morgan, advises homeowners to be cautious of this banana skin when installing or continuing to use the technology.
She said: “Although the use of CCTV and smart doorbells both inside and outside an individual’s home is legal, there are a number of potential privacy issues which can arise depending on how the technology is deployed by its users.
“In particular, recording other people’s private spaces or public spaces, recording sound and covert recording can all be problematic.
“A smart doorbell which records into a neighbour’s doorway as well as the user’s own, for example, would constitute a violation of the neighbour’s privacy.
“While manufacturers can make adjustments, such as reducing mic sensitivity and the field of vision, there will still be scope for the technology to infringe on the privacy of others.
“As a result, it is the responsibility of the user to be mindful that their devices do not intrude into areas where others have a right to privacy.”
Many flocked to social media to react to the warning.
One said: “Thank you for the clear concise advice”.
A second agreed: “Great info, thank you so much.”
How to ensure your Ring doorbell is operating within the law
If a smart doorbell records outside the boundary of the property it is installed in, the ICO said data protection law demands the following:
Signal to your neighbours or those around you that you are recording – pehaps with a sticker or sign.
Hand over or delete recordings if asked by others.
Clear footage archives regularly or automatically.
If requested to stop recording by someone, do so – with exemptions for keeping a property safe.
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