02/26/08

Hidden Cameras in Air Purifiers: Spy vs. Spy

Back in 1961, when I was a pre-adolescent, my then-favorite periodical (Mad Magazine) began publishing a caption-less black and white humorous comic strip called "Spy vs. Spy."

It seemed silly.

But today's increasingly tiny optical and infrared camera technology is no joke. It allows spying on every aspect of our lives.

Surveillance cameras, both overt and covert, are everywhere.

There are even cameras on remote sections of the Appalachian Trail, ostensibly to monitor wildlife.

But it's not just big brother, hidden optical sensors are now widely available to private individuals.

Wireless transmitter equipped hidden cameras are sold disguised in mundane household devices. These transmit video signals to receivers on the video-input jack of computers, VCRs and TV sets.

Hidden cameras are disguised as clocks, silk plants, desk lamps, picture frames, DVD players, and air purifiers.

Did he just say "air purifiers?"

How could they?

But hey, this spy network stuff goes beyond the coming totalitarian nightmare, I mean the personal repercussions can be real serious.

For instance, how about this news item?

A military court-martial is deliberating the case of a Navy doctor who stands accused of covertly taping the very private behaviors of Naval Academy midshipmen of both genders.

He used a camera hidden in an air cleaner.

Unfortunately for the defendant, the observed subjects cluelessly provided plenty of action for the incriminating recordings. A jury will decide whether this guy is guilty of conduct unbecoming an officer and illegal wiretapping.

Spy vs Spy vs Spy!

I hope it goes without saying that the hidden camera gizmos are not recommended here as air cleaners.

Microsoft Internet Explorer users, please use form below to bookmark site:

Looking for something? Try searching the site: