Hidden Camera Findings Lead To Concerns About Burglaries in California

Hidden cameras discovered outside Southern California homes have residents on high alert due to concerns about burglars using surveillance tech to study daily routines before striking.

Key Takeaways

Camouflaged cameras have been found in communities in Chino Hills and other Southern California locations.
Authorities warn criminals are known to use these devices to monitor residents’ schedules, identifying optimal times for break-ins when homes are unoccupied.
At least one case was linked to an organized “burglary tourism” ring.
Experts recommend inspecting property vegetation, securing WiFi networks, locking electrical panels, and maintaining proper lighting.
Residents should report suspicious devices to law enforcement immediately and consider upgrading to wired security systems.

Surveillance Devices Found in Neighborhoods

A concerning trend has emerged in Southern California as hidden surveillance cameras have been discovered outside homes in multiple communities. Recently, residents in a gated Chino Hills neighborhood found a camera disguised within foliage, strategically attached to a bush branch and powered by two large battery banks. The camera was deliberately camouflaged to avoid detection, raising serious security concerns even in areas previously considered safe from criminal activity. A similar device was uncovered in Encino this month, according to reports.

The discovery in Chino Hills prompted investigations by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, which is working to identify those responsible for installing the surveillance device. Authorities have not yet determined whether the camera transmits data wirelessly or requires physical retrieval of SD cards, but the device is reportedly similar to others that have been used by criminals to track the schedules of unsuspecting residents.

Hidden camera found in home planter sparks concerns after recent home burglaries https://t.co/KHQBQTWwU1

— Los Angeles Times (@latimes) March 11, 2025

Criminal Organizations Behind the Surveillance

According to law enforcement sources, at least one case in Glendale was linked to what they term “burglary tourism” – organized criminal groups that travel to affluent areas specifically to conduct targeted break-ins. In September, three individuals were arrested in Temecula for setting up a hidden camera outside a property, but the problem continues throughout the region. The sophisticated approach suggests that these aren’t opportunistic crimes but rather calculated operations conducted by well-organized groups.

“Security cameras are so affordable nowadays that criminals are adding them to their arsenal,” said security expert Rob Gabriele in an assessment of the situation. The trend extends beyond Southern California, with similar devices discovered in communities elsewhere in the country, including Scarsdale, New York.

Growing Trend in Criminal Surveillance

Security professionals have observed this criminal tactic developing over several years. Kirk MacDowell, a security expert monitoring the situation, told Newsweek, “the activity surrounding hidden cameras appears to have gained prominence over the last 3 years.” The increasing availability and decreasing cost of surveillance technology have made these tools accessible to criminal elements who exploit them for illicit purposes rather than protection.

Protecting Your Home

Security experts recommend several measures for concerned homeowners. These include regularly inspecting trees and bushes on your property for unusual devices, securing WiFi networks against unauthorized access, and ensuring electrical panels are locked to prevent tampering. Maintaining proper lighting around the property is essential, as it discourages both the placement of hidden cameras and subsequent break-in attempts. Homeowners can also consider upgrading from wireless to wired security systems, which are less vulnerable to interference or hacking.

Additional recommendations include installing motion-sensor lighting, using electronic trackers to monitor home security, and enhancing physical barriers like window bars where appropriate. Most importantly, residents should immediately report any suspicious devices or activities to local law enforcement rather than attempting to remove or investigate devices themselves. With vigilance and proper security measures, homeowners can reduce their vulnerability to these increasingly sophisticated criminal tactics.