Editing Hidden camera (section)

{{Short description|Type of surveillance camera}}
{{For|the music group|The Hidden Cameras}}
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[[File:Lens of Mini Camcorder.jpg|300px|thumbnail|8 mm × 8 mm lens with a built-in image sensor, used for a mini camcorder]]

A '''hidden camera''' or '''spy camera''' is a [[camera]] used to photograph or record subjects, often people, without their knowledge. The camera may be considered "hidden" because it is not visible to the subject being filmed, or is disguised as another object. Hidden cameras are often considered a [[surveillance]] tool.

The term "hidden camera" is commonly used when subjects are unaware that they are being recorded, usually lacking their knowledge and consent; the term "spy camera" is generally used when the subject would object to being recorded if they were aware of the camera's presence. In contrast, the phrase "[[Closed-circuit television|security camera]]" refers to cameras that are visible and/or are accompanied by a warning notice of their presence, so the subject is aware of the camera's presence and knows they are being filmed.{{Citation needed|date=October 2022}}

The use of hidden cameras raises personal privacy issues. There may be legal aspects to consider, depending on the jurisdiction in which they are used.