The Evolution of Video Surveillance in the U.S.
Video surveillance has been used in the United States for decades. Financial institutions were among the first to adopt the technology in the 1960s. By the 1970s, its use had expanded to hospitals, convenience stores, museums, galleries, and other public spaces. At that time, video surveillance was primarily used for recording events — it was not yet utilized for live monitoring.
Advancements in Technology
As technology advanced, so did the capabilities of video surveillance systems. Cameras gained features such as pan and tilt functionality, enabling 360-degree coverage, and the ability to capture clear images even in low-light conditions.
Modern video surveillance systems also introduced automated monitoring. Footage is now stored in searchable digital databases, allowing users — including law enforcement — to easily review and retrieve recordings when needed. These technological improvements have proven invaluable to security teams and authorities.
Widespread Investment in Video Surveillance Across U.S. Industries
Organizations across the United States have invested heavily in video surveillance to enhance security and reduce risk. The private sector uses video surveillance in a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, finance, transportation, utilities, and communications, among many others.
The Growth of the Video Surveillance Industry
This growing demand for video surveillance has driven significant growth in the video technology sector. Sales of surveillance products have reached record highs, with leading manufacturers reporting sharp increases in revenue. Just a few years ago, U.S. businesses were spending close to $100 million annually on surveillance equipment — a fraction of the potential financial losses they faced due to theft, fraud, or other criminal activity. The majority of this spending goes toward commercial and industrial applications.
Workplace Surveillance and Its Impact
Video surveillance is now common in many American workplaces. Employers are legally permitted to monitor employees on video if there is a legitimate suspicion of misconduct. Video surveillance has proven useful for documenting incidents such as sexual harassment, workplace theft, and even medical malpractice.