I need to know if installing a web cam in a bar with no notification to the public that it is there constitutes an invasion of privacy?
If so, what needs to be done to allow the bar to install said web cam?
Thanks,

Emland

In Virginia, as long as there is no audio recording, there is no invasion of privacy issues or at least that was the guidance we received for security cameras. I would think webcams would be viewed under the same law.

Fr_Chuck

This will vary by state to state, in many states there will have to be a notice. also remember if others are watching and see a underage person there, guess who will have just filmed thier own evidence.

I think alot of people will not like the idea of getting drunk on the web, but then I though mood rings were a stupid idea.

ScottGem

This will vary from state to state. It also depends on what they are used for. If the camera is hidden and/or the images are used publicly without permission that would be a problem. However its for security purposes and its openly done, I doubt if there would be an issue.

Take it to your state Liquor authority and see what they say. Or just not go back to that bar.

ebaines

I think it's a good idea. Recently here in Chicago we had a case of an off-duty cop assaulting a female bar tender becuase she wouldn't serve him another drink due to his intoxicated state. It was caught on the security camera, shown on the local news (this was a 200 pound gut stomping a 110 pound gitrl) the cop is now an ex-cop, and he's in jail awaiting trial. Obviously this guy was not cut out for the "to protect & serve" crowd.

In my opinion (I'm no lawyer), anything anyone does in a public forum is fair game for being recorded.

nanajo1

the laws will depend on why the web cam is being set up. is it for security only? as in taping underage people trying to get service. Is it because you want to set up a web site depicting how crazy people can act with a few drinks? if it is the web site you could be headed for trouble. in these cases you need you have the people who will appear on the web cam sign a declaration relaeasing their permission for you to be taping them.
In canada the use of a web cam is illegal unless you are using it with the prior written permission of each of the people who are caught on camera. if it is too use to expose a illegal practice that you know is going on in a bar? sorry tapes, video, etc can not be used in a court of law as evidenvce not even telephone tapes. maybe if you were to explain why you want to use it, then i could help you better

LadyB

Is there some reasonable expectation of "privacy" in an establishment open to the public? I know they can't put cams in the bathroom stalls, but anywhere cash is being handled is fair game, isn't it? I know we had plenty of cameras in every retail store I have ever worked in and didn't have to inform the public. You say "web cam" are the images being streamed on some public website, or just viewed by security? Again, I have seen nightclubs and bars in tourist destinations with web cams but don't remember any posts.