Bay Area Residents Alarmed After Police Discover Secret Cameras Watching Houses

San Jose police have issued a public warning after discovering hidden surveillance cameras placed around residential properties in what officers believe may be part of a new trend used by burglars to case neighbourhoods before committing thefts. The alert follows several recent findings of camouflaged devices located near homes in east San Jose, prompting concern from law enforcement and residents alike.

The San Jose Police Department (SJPD) said in a press release that the cameras were designed to monitor homes and determine when occupants were away, potentially making them easier targets for burglary. Police stress that the devices were not typical home security cameras, but rather small, concealed units likely placed by unknown suspects with malicious intent.

First Camera Found in Early Morning Sweep

The first suspicious device was discovered by a homeowner after officers responded to a report of suspicious activity shortly before 3 a.m. Thursday, last week. The caller reported seeing unknown persons outside their house.

While the suspects had fled by the time police arrived, the resident later located a hidden camera in the bushes, attached to an external power bank and pointed directly at the property.

Detectives from SJPD's burglary unit subsequently found a second concealed camera nearby. This device appeared to be connected to a Wi-Fi module, suggesting it could have been capable of transmitting footage back to a remote observer.

Both cameras were placed in locations that could capture entryways and activity around the homes without being easily noticed.

Police Link Devices to Burglary Preparations

In its press release, SJPD said these incidents are not isolated and represent what may be a 'new trend' in burglary preparations. According to the department, burglars are increasingly using 'deceptive tactics' to assess when homes are unoccupied before attempting to break in.

'These suspects plant hidden surveillance devices, often posing as delivery service providers, to determine when homes are unoccupied before committing burglaries,' police said. Residents have also reported encounters with individuals posing as landscapers or delivery workers, who ring doorbells or leave packages to test whether anyone is at home.

Police have not identified any suspects or made arrests in connection with the hidden cameras. Authorities said the individuals responsible remain at large and are urging the public to be cautious and report any suspicious activity.

How Residents Can Protect Themselves

In its alert, the San Jose Police Department urged residents to remain vigilant and proactive in checking their surroundings. Homeowners are advised to regularly inspect their property for unfamiliar objects, particularly in concealed areas such as bushes, trees or along fences, and to avoid touching any suspicious devices they may find.

Police say anything out of place should be reported immediately, as handling potential surveillance equipment could compromise evidence or pose safety risks. Residents are also encouraged to be alert to unusual behaviour, including unexpected visitors, unfamiliar vehicles lingering in the area, or unsolicited packages, especially when these incidents occur late at night or early in the morning.

SJPD has asked the public to contact local police or the department's burglary unit directly if they notice anything suspicious, stressing that timely reporting can help prevent further crimes.

Context and Broader Concerns

While this appears to be a growing tactic in San Jose, maliciously used hidden cameras have been reported in other parts of California, where police have warned that concealed surveillance can be used by organised groups to track household comings and goings for criminal purposes. Experts say such devices — especially when not part of a homeowner's security system — are strong indicators that criminals are assessing vulnerabilities before targeting a property.

Residents are encouraged to double down on security measures, including lighting, alarm systems and visible cameras, and to work closely with law enforcement to share information that could lead to arrests.