They are everywhere, in banks, casinos, airports, train stations and even shopping malls. Closed Circuit Televisions are an effective means of surveillance that have become a necessity for both security and evidence.

Closed Circuit Television, otherwise known as CCTV refers to the usage of video surveillance cameras to monitor public and private areas. Surveillance cameras send a signal to a restricted number of monitors where security personnel can keep track of them.

In comparison with broadcast TVs, Closed Circuit Television systems are not directly sent out. However, CCTV does make use of point to point wireless links.

Ever since the first appearance of CCTV back in 1942, when it was used to observe the launch of rockets, Closed Circuit Television systems have come a long way and become more and more widespread. They were also used and developed after the IRA bombings as a silent reaction to these aggressive acts.

Currently, CCTV is part of the security systems of banks, public spaces and is also becoming increasingly popular among home owners looking to protect their assets. However, the presence of Closed Circuit Television has given way to a controversial debate, mainly as it relates to privacy issues.

CCTV offers a truthful broadcast of what is happening in a public space, rendering footage that might prevent crime or identify illegal activities or criminals. For example, in a bank, CCTV images can monitor the presence of a break-in during the night and the police can be notified allowing the robbery to be prevented. On the other hand, if the theft has already taken place, the images can unveil the identity of a suspect.

At airports or train and tube stations, these surveillance cameras can also be of great help. The images from CCTV cameras have helped in finding the persons who planned the bombings in London 2005, and have also been central to solving many other crimes.

Closed Circuit Televisions are also being used to monitor traffic on highways and motorways. The CCTVs can point out the places where there is a traffic jam or an accident, allowing measures to be taken within minutes.

The latest trend for CCTV usage is on private properties and housing areas. The aim of the Closed Circuit Televisions is that of social control. People are becoming more and more concerned in keeping their property safe and so they choose CCTVs to help do it.

CCTVs have proven to be a great help in crime prevention and detection and are being successfully used in many circumstances and places. Conversely, Closed Circuit Televisions being in many public places is a threatening fact to people's privacy. Just imagine that everywhere you go, there's a big chance that a CCTV system has been installed there. For many this feels like they are being watched at almost all times; that's not a pleasant thought. However, the thought that Closed Circuit Televisions can bring more safety can act as a comfort that undoubtedly outweighs any negatives.