Security Camera Service

The Security Camera Service is a campus-approved, Technology Services-managed service that leverages the university’s existing network and storage resources with centrally managed IP-based security cameras. The Security Camera Service was developed by Technology Services and the Department of Public Safety following a mandate from the Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC).

The uniform and centrally managed nature of the service provide a reliable tool for the Division of Public Safety. However, departments still retain control of their security cameras including live feeds of the cameras and view-able archives of the past thirty days. 

How does the campus deal with the privacy issues surrounding the use of security cameras?

Security cameras are valuable public safety devices that collectively can serve as a deterrent or investigative tool to help reduce criminal acts on campus, but because of the possible privacy issues involved, campus leadership has put in place strict requirements surrounding their installation and use.  The campus Security Camera Policy may be found at http://cam.illinois.edu/viii/VIII-1.5.htm

The Security Camera Service ensures that all new security camera installations meet the requirements of the campus Security Camera Policy including robust personal privacy protection developed by the campus Privacy and Information Security group. There are many privacy protections in place including the following:

• Video footage may never be used for HR or personnel reasons. The video footage may only be used in the investigation of a possible crime.
• Microphone functionality on the cameras is disabled and no audio is ever recorded.
• Video footage is archived for a minimum of 30 days and a maximum of 120 days. After the archival period expires the video files are automatically deleted unless the video has become part of a police investigation.
• Video viewing is restricted to a limited number of people. Each time a camera feed or recording is accessed a log entry is created with the viewer’s NetID, time/date, and the camera that was viewed. This log is monitored by the Privacy and Information Security group.

Where should my department put security cameras and why?

Each department has unique needs based on many factors, so these questions are answered best after meeting with the Security Camera Service team. There is no charge for this survey. During this initial visit, the service manager will discuss the Security Camera Service as a whole, including applicable campus policies and additional pricing models. A police detective with special training in security cameras will assess your department’s security needs and make recommendations. After the initial meeting Technology Services will provide an estimate including one-time costs and recurring costs.

If you would like to request a survey, please submit information at go.illinois.edu/seccamrequest

How much does it cost?

Technology Services provides a turn-key solution with low recurring cost. Campus units typically prefer to fund installation as part of the initial deployment.  Hardware, software, and camera device license purchases are facilitated by Technology Services, and re-billed to the department.

Recurring costs include a monthly charge for video storage. These charges are: $5/month for general use interior cameras; $10/month for wide-angle interior cameras or cameras located on building exteriors; $18/month for multi-lens cameras. The initial device license expires after three years, starting in the fourth year of service, those licenses require annual renewal of $40.

The university has standardized on Milestone Corporate Edition software for management and recording servers. The Milestone Smart Client software runs on MS-Windows computers and is provided to departments at no additional cost, for the secure viewing of video.

Please contact us for additional information. A detailed proposal based on your department’s security needs can be provided.

How can my department get more information?

To learn more about this service or to schedule a meeting, Please contact the security camera service team: securitycameras@illinois.edu