Indiana Security Guard Practice Exam

What is the primary role of surveillance cameras in security?

1. To provide evidence for legal cases

2. To monitor activities and deter criminal behavior

3. To isolate incidents for review

4. To assist in traffic control

The correct answer is: To monitor activities and deter criminal behavior

The primary role of surveillance cameras in security is to monitor activities and deter criminal behavior. This function is essential in both public and private spaces, as the presence of cameras can often discourage individuals from engaging in unlawful actions due to the risk of being recorded. When people know they are being watched, they are less likely to commit crimes such as theft or vandalism. Monitoring activities allows security personnel or law enforcement to keep an eye on specific areas in real time, enabling them to respond swiftly to incidents as they occur. While the ability of surveillance systems to provide evidence for legal cases is important, the primary intention of these cameras is to act as a deterrent and proactive measure against crime. In contrast, the other options focus on secondary functions of surveillance systems. Isolating incidents for review and assisting in traffic control are important tasks, but they do not encapsulate the primary purpose of surveillance cameras in a security context as effectively as monitoring activities and deterring crime.