Found this device on my ceiling and I’m starting to worry it could be a hidden camera disguised as a smoke detector. Picture attached for reference. What should I check for?
Honestly, just open it up! Either:
-
It’s a regular smoke detector, and any damage you might cause checking it out is worth the peace of mind.
-
It’s actually a camera, and then you’ve got way bigger issues. If someone was spying, they can’t exactly complain if you found it and broke it.
These are pretty cheap, honestly. If you’re not sure, just toss it and get a new one.
Sloane said:
@Jordan
What should I look for if it’s only a smoke detector? Any signs to tell them apart?
Check if there’s a microSD card slot, USB port, or a strong Wi-Fi signal when you’re close to it. Stuff like that.
Just put some tape over it. If it’s a regular smoke detector, no harm done. If it’s a camera and someone removes the tape, that’s a huge red flag that someone’s messing with it.
Looks like there’s a green light on it. Easy test: press the test button, and if it’s a smoke detector, the green light should turn on. Cameras don’t usually have test buttons like that.
Turn it to the left to take it off. Don’t worry, it shouldn’t start beeping unless you press the test button. Normal smoke detectors have a few wires—white, black, and red—that connect to the ceiling.
Nash said:
Turn it to the left to take it off. Don’t worry, it shouldn’t start beeping unless you press the test button. Normal smoke detectors have a few wires—white, black, and red—that connect to the ceiling.
Some are battery-only, but yeah, just take it down and check. No need to worry.
@Zeek
The green light makes me think it’s hardwired.
Nash said:
@Zeek
The green light makes me think it’s hardwired.
Usually the hardwired ones have a constant green light, but it can depend on the brand.
Nash said:
Turn it to the left to take it off. Don’t worry, it shouldn’t start beeping unless you press the test button. Normal smoke detectors have a few wires—white, black, and red—that connect to the ceiling.
Thanks, I’ll give it a try!
From the photo, it doesn’t look like a camera to me. But it’s hard to tell with just a photo. Best way to know is to take it down and check inside.
Honestly, it kinda looks like those hidden camera smoke detectors you see online. Be cautious!
Looks like a Kidde smoke detector model, or maybe a knockoff that looks like one.
Stick some tape over it or just replace it if it doesn’t feel right. If it really seems suspicious, maybe call the authorities and stay safe.
UPDATE: Thanks to everyone who helped out! I took it down, and it was totally disconnected, not even attached to any wires. Pressed the button, and nothing happened. There’s a UL sticker on it, so it seems like it’s just an old smoke detector from 2003. Planning to replace it anyway just to be safe.
Oh wow, by that logic, my whole apartment would be full of hidden cameras! Got one in nearly every room here!
Just throw some tape on it, honestly.
Here’s an easy trick—turn off the lights and point your phone camera at it. If it lights up more than usual, it might be a camera.
Paz said:
Here’s an easy trick—turn off the lights and point your phone camera at it. If it lights up more than usual, it might be a camera.
Bad idea… I’ve got infrared cameras outside, and my iPhone can’t see them at all. Most phones have IR filters these days.