Feeling Watched at Home? NPC Says You Can Raise a Privacy Concern

A security camera installed to protect a home could become a privacy concern when it starts capturing a neighbor’s window or other private spaces, according to the National Privacy Commission (NPC).

The NPC said household CCTV cameras focused only on a homeowner’s own house or property are generally not covered by the Data Privacy Act because they fall under the exemption for “personal, family, or household affairs.”

But that exemption may no longer apply when the camera captures people or areas beyond the boundaries of the homeowner’s property, including the window of a neighboring residence.

Citing NPC Circular No. 2024-02 on CCTV Systems, the commission said homeowners should consider the location and angle of their cameras to avoid unreasonable intrusion into another person’s privacy.

“CCTV should only be focused on the intended space. If it has zoom or rotation capabilities, it should not be used to monitor private spaces, such as inside the house or through the window of a private residence,” the NPC said.

The commission explained that when CCTV captures images of people or places beyond the boundaries of a private residence, its use may no longer be considered purely for personal, family, or household affairs. In such cases, obligations under the Data Privacy Act and related NPC issuances may apply.

For people who find themselves in this situation, the NPC advised first talking to the neighbor and asking them to adjust the camera so it is no longer directed at the window or private area of the affected home.

The request should also be made in writing, according to the commission, as proof of prior written communication is among the requirements for filing a case with the NPC.

If no action is taken within 15 days and the situation involves personal data processing covered by the Data Privacy Act, the affected individual may file a case with the commission in accordance with applicable rules and procedures.

“Security is important. But there should also be respect for privacy. It’s all about balance,” the NPC said.