Ways To Keep Your Security Camera System Safe

Investing in a CCTV security camera system is a great way to help keep your business safe. It is up to every business owner to make sure that they stay safe and secure. Below are some tips that can prevent hackers from gaining access to security cameras.

Make Sure The Network Is Secure

The importance of having a safe and secure network cannot be overstated. After all, an unsafe network could make your data accessible to hackers. Having your data encrypted can provide another layer of protection for your security camera system. 

Have A Unique Password

One mistake that people often make when setting up a security camera system is choosing an easy or obvious password. While it may be easier for you to remember, it also increases the chances of a hacker being able to hack in. To avoid this, be sure to use a unique password that only you would know. 

Do Not Purchase A Used Security Camera

Some people buy used security camera systems to save some money. However, it is possible for the previous owners to gain access to the system. To err on the side of caution, only purchase new security camera systems. 

Are you in the market for a new security camera system? If so, the professionals here at Reliable Voice & Data Systems can help you find one that is perfect for your particular business. To learn more or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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New Innovations For Security Cameras

Technological advancements are popping up in all different fields. Security cameras are no exception to this rule! Keep reading to learn about innovations that are new to security cameras.

Night Vision Capabilities

It is important to remember that your business location should be safe and secure at all times, and this includes at night. A security camera that has night vision capabilities can help make this possible. Not only can these cameras capture footage in the dark, but they can also record footage during inclement weather events.

Smartphone Compatible

People use their smartphones for everything these days. They can even be used to access footage from a security camera! This allows business owners to know what is going on at their business location at any given time. 

Facial Feature Detection

Security cameras have become so advanced that they can detect faces. This is known as facial recognition. If someone enters your business outside of the normal business hours, the facial recognition feature can help you determine who is trespassing.

If you want a CCTV security camera system that has all of the new bells and whistles, turn to Reliable Voice & Data Systems. We can help you find a CCTV security camera that has the features your business needs. To learn more or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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How To Find Your Next Security Camera System

When your current security camera system just isn't cutting it anymore, it is time to search for a new one. This doesn't have to be a daunting task! Below are some tips that will help you find your next security camera system.

Easily Accessible Footage

If you want to know what is going on at your business at all times, you will need to access the security camera footage. Certain security camera systems allow you to see this footage remotely. That way, you just need an internet connection or your mobile phone to view live footage at your business location.

Storage Capacity

Another important factor to consider when purchasing a security camera system is its storage capabilities. Ideally, you will want to have a system that stores footage locally or on the cloud. In addition, look for a system that automatically saves video footage so you can reference past events.

Superior Video Quality

Be sure to choose a security camera system that has superior video quality. After all, video footage that is blurry will not be of much help to you. To ensure that the video quality is up to par, ask to see a sample of the video footage. 

If you are still having trouble finding the security camera system that is right for your particular business, turn to the professionals here at Reliable Voice & Data Systems. We can help you find one that suits your needs and your budget. To learn more or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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Security Cameras Can Help Improve Employee Productivity

It is no secret that business owners have security cameras installed to help deter crime and theft at their business locations. Did you know that security cameras can have a positive impact on employee productivity? Keep reading to find out how it works. 

When there are cameras dispersed throughout a business location, the footage will capture the actions of both customers and employees. Business owners can use this to their advantage by monitoring the activities of each employee and providing them with areas for improvement. This can lead to an increase in employee productivity.

Business owners should be honest with their employees and let them know that they are being recorded. After all, it will give them the opportunity to explain that it can help enhance employee performance and safety measures. It is a win-win situation for all parties involved!

Employees who are honest and have been doing their jobs correctly will not be worried. Conversely, employees who have been dishonest will either get their acts together or be fired. All of these outcomes will only make the business more secure.

If your business could benefit from having CCTV security cameras installed, turn to the professionals here at Reliable Voice & Data Systems! We can help you find a surveillance system that suits your wants and needs. To learn more or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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How To Use Technology To Improve Your Business

There is no doubt that technology is improving at a rapid pace. With such a saturated market, business owners might not know where to start. It can be hard to determine what will help a business succeed. Keep reading to find out what can help take your business to the next level.

A Cloud-Based Phone System
You may not want to have your head in the clouds, but we highly recommend having your phone system hosted in the cloud! That way, a power outage will not cause a screeching halt to business. Business owners will still be able to access the phone system from an extension on a cellphone, smartphone, or computer app. It is just one less thing to worry about!

Security Cameras
Business owners want to know what is going on at their business location 24/7, and with good reason! CCTV cameras can act as your extra set of eyes in the sky. Best of all, business owners can access footage remotely. Talk about convenience!

Strata Meeting
Do you have employees who work remotely? If so, you may conduct weekly calls with these remote team members. It is not uncommon to experience issues when trying to get everyone on the line. If you know this all too well, it is time to upgrade to Strata Meeting. This dial-in audio conferencing tool will allow you to host these audio calls with ease.

When you equip your business with the right technology, the sky is the limit. If you want to help your business grow and thrive, turn to Reliable Voice & Data Systems. To learn more about cloud-based phone systems, Strata Meeting or CCTV cameras, give us a call at (877) 385-6657 or visit our website.

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3 Ways You Can Protect Your Business

One of the most important aspects of running your own business is protecting your investment and limiting your liability. Otherwise, you could end up in the middle of an awful lawsuit that could leave you with no money when it’s all said and done. In order to protect your business, make sure you take the proper steps to do so.

Get Yourself a Top Notch Attorney

Finding yourself an attorney as soon as you start your business is recommended. This attorney should be competent and knowledgeable with your local laws and have expertise in the type of business you run. Being able to have an attorney familiar with your business right away will allow you to contact them before you take any action during a possible lawsuit.

Separate Identities

Most small businesses start out as a sole proprietorship, which is something no business owner should ever do. Why? Because when the company is sued, all of the owner’s assets are up for grabs in court. To keep your home, cars, and personal finances safe from being attacked in court, set up a trust to own your business. This trust will give your business its own legal entity that won’t put its owners at risk when being sued.

Install CCTV Security Cameras

The lack of evidence during a lawsuit is something that can hurt a business when it's being sued. Let’s say someone falls in the building of your business and sues you for a large sum of money. Can you prove that this fall is something you are responsible for — or that it even happened at all? Having CCTV security cameras surveying every open space of your business will allow you and the court of law to see what really happened so a fair trial can take place.

As a business owner, it is your responsibility to do everything in your power to protect your investment from being sued. If you’re looking to keep an eye on your business at all times, consider installing CCTV security cameras from Reliable Voice & Data Systems. To learn more or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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The Most Common Workplace Accidents

Accidents in the workplace can happen to anyone at any moment. For those who own their own businesses, accidents that cause workplace injuries can cost you a lot of money. Of all the workplace accidents that can happen, the most common ones are…

• Slips - No matter the type of business you own, most will have a break room or kitchen. This is the area of the building that can experience small puddles of water on the floor thanks to the sink. Since kitchens will have some form of tile or linoleum, this can become a slippery surface with just a few drops of water or other liquids.
• Falling Objects - For those who work in warehouses or stores with tall shelves, it’s possible for items to fall off of these shelves. Being struck by a falling object can cause severe head injuries, especially if the objects are furniture or large pieces of technology like televisions.
• Back Injuries - Some jobs require workers to lift a specific amount of weight as stated in their job description before being hired. However, poor form can lead to muscles being injured, putting the worker out of commission. One wrong movement when moving product can send even the healthiest of workers to the emergency room.
• Conflicts - Not all workplace injuries happen by accident, some will happen due to physical altercations. Whether it’s two workers, two customers, or a worker and a customer, violence can take place in your business. When the fighting is done on your premises (or with your worker), you could be held liable for any damages during a lawsuit.

How to Avoid Being Liable for Damages

If an accident happens in your business, sometimes you can be held accountable if a lawsuit does come to fruition. However, if your business has a CCTV security system you will have the evidence to show what actually happened. Not only will this show you what really transpired, but it could expose people who fake a workplace incident. Having eyes everywhere will keep you and your business protected from possible liability.

Workplace accidents happen from time to time and unfortunately, there are a few ways you can be injured. When your business needs to install a CCTV security system, contact Reliable Voice & Data Systems. To learn more, or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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Are My Employees Stealing From Me?

As a business owner or manager, it’s up to you to make sure you hire, train, and lead your employees to help your business grow Unfortunately, not every employee hired is going to be completely dedicated to your company. Some of these employees will even go as far as to steal from right underneath your nose.

Sudden Change in Work Habits

You can usually get a pretty good grasp of an employee's work habits after a few months. You’ll know what time they usually arrive, leave, take breaks, and how they act during their shift. If all of a sudden an employee starts coming in early or staying late for no apparent reason, take a mental note. Look into why their work habits suddenly changed just to make sure there’s nothing going on behind your back.

Missing Inventory

Most of the time, you’re the person doing all of the ordering for your inventory. If not, you should at least be looking at shipping orders and knowing a rough estimate of your total inventory. When your inventory system is telling you that there are five units of a specific item, but only three or four are in the store, start digging. Find out where the missing units are by seeing if they were damaged out, sitting in the return area, or misplaced. If this becomes a normally occurring theme, start asking questions.

Friends & Family

It takes a lot of sneaking around for an employee to steal and can oftentimes be very difficult. Many employees (who do steal) will enlist the help of friends and family. If an employee has their relative or buddy come in every so often, but will only check out with them — keep an eye out. When this person always waits on their long line instead of going to an open register, you have the right to be a little suspicious.

It’s not always easy to tell if your employees are stealing from you, but there are a few red flags you should be aware of. If you’re thinking about installing CCTV security cameras to cut down on employee theft and shoplifting, contact Reliable Voice & Data Systems. To learn more, or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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Why Does My Business Need Security Cameras?

As a business owner, you want to make decisions that will help protect your investment. One way to protect your business is to install CCTV security cameras throughout its physical location. Utilizing these security cameras can provide you with multiple benefits that will look out for your business (pun intended).

Lowering the Amount of Theft

For businesses who sell products at a physical location, security cameras can lower the chances of shoplifting and employee theft. Customers who notice CCTV cameras will think twice before stealing, and you will have the pictures of the people who did steal for future reference. When employees know they are being watched, they are more inclined to follow the rules (like not steal!)

Keep an Eye on Daily Operations

Employees tend to work the hardest when the boss is around. When your business has CCTV cameras scattered throughout the business, the boss is always in the room! Slacking off and choosing not to complete certain tasks will be minimized if employees know that management is watching them. Other than spying, these cameras can also help boost efficiency by allowing viewers to analyze a current process of how something is done and see what can be changed for the better.

Dodging Lawsuits

Someone slipped and fell in your business, but no one was around to witness it — now what? If your first initial thought is to check the security tapes, then do you need to be convinced more? The presence of security cameras can also shed light on physical altercations, harassment claims, robberies, vandalism, and parking lot car accidents. When no one is there to see these incidents, your cameras will have your back!

The amount of benefits that CCTV security cameras offer makes us wonder why all businesses don’t already have them. If your business is thinking of installing surveillance cameras, contact Reliable Voice & Data Systems. To learn more, or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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Holiday Shopping Incidents That Can Take Place in Your Small Business

The holiday season is filled with love, joy, and of course -- crazy holiday shoppers! Trying to shop in the month of December can be a hectic and oftentimes dangerous time of year. If you own, manage, or work in a small business, here are a few things you might witness.

Aggressive Behavior

For small businesses who strategically price their merchandise with sales and discounts, be aware of how your customers interact within the store. Sometimes customers will do anything to check every item off of their holiday shopping list, which is when aggressive behavior comes into play. Be aware of any customers who might be pushing, yelling, or starting fights to get what they want (from employees or other customers).

Car Accidents

When a business is located in a mall, shopping plaza, or on a busy street, accidents are bound to happen. Mixing aggressive behavior with an abundant amount cars is a recipe for disaster in the parking lot. Customers can get into fender benders, strike pedestrians, and cause hit and runs. Always pay extra attention when you’re in the parking areas during this time of year.

Shoplifting

When the foot traffic in your store increases, this will naturally increase the odds of merchandise being stolen. More people in the store at once will also make it easier for shoplifters to hide product on their person without being seen by employees. Managers should tell all employees to be more alert during this month, as well as checking security cameras throughout the day.

If there is ever an incident in your small business involving aggressive shoppers, car accidents, or shoplifters, having CCTV cameras installed can provide you with evidence to protect your business. To learn more about CCTV, or to schedule a free estimate with Reliable Voice & Data Systems, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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Tips to Prevent Shoplifting This Holiday Season

No matter the time of year, shoplifting is a constant problem that every business needs to worry about. However, this problem skyrockets during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Utilize a few of these tips to try and reduce the number of shoplifters in your small business.

Train Employees to…

• Always keep an eye out for suspicious activity
• Speak to every customer that enters the building
• If a customer seems to be lingering in a specific area for too long, ask them if they would like some assistance
• Know and walk around areas where shoplifting occurs most

Keep an Eye Out For Customers Who…

• Refuse to make eye contact with employees
• Stand in blind spots of the store
• Repeatedly walk in and out of the store
• Are visually nervous

Every business should worry about shoplifting, but they should also worry about employee theft. No one has more accessibility to merchandise and money than the people who work for the business.

To reduce employee theft, a business owner should…

• Pop into the store at random times without letting employees know
• Randomly check the inventory and registers throughout the month to make sure all of the numbers are adding up and nothing is missing
• Offer rewards to employees who catch other employees stealing
• Utilize a POS system where all items are logged and recorded for future analysis
• Install a CCTV security system throughout the store and at each point of entry

Shoplifting is a crime that can seriously hurt the bottom line of every small business owner. When you want to beef up security in your store, contact Reliable Voice & Data Systems. To learn more about CCTV security systems, or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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What You Don't Know About Shoplifting

Shoplifting is a crime that happens all too often. For those who own small businesses, just a few shoplifters per month can put a serious dent in the amount of profits they take home. It’s important to brush up on your knowledge of shoplifting so you can better prevent it.

1. Eyes on the Prize - Every store should have a dedicated loss prevention employee and a set of security cameras. The person in question for shoplifting must be seen by this employee for them to be stopped. Even if someone else tips off the employee about the shoplifter, nothing can be done until they are seen stealing by this employee.
2. Bathroom/Fitting Room - A common shoplifting practice is to take items into the bathroom or fitting rooms and conceal them there. Unfortunately, an employee can not stop this person because they did not see them steal with their own eyes. You can guess that they have the items on their person, but there is no visual proof.
3. Do Not Chase - Let’s say you watch a shoplifter conceal an item and walk past the point of purchase to the outside of the store -- now what? Yes, you can confront them, but do not chase the suspect if they decide to run. If any harm is done to the shoplifter it is possible for them to sue and for the store to be liable for any harm done to them. Watch how they leave, where they go, and then call the police.
4. Underage/Overage - A store should not stop any shoplifter that is younger than 5 and older than 70. A kid under the age of 5 has no responsibility for their actions and should not be embarrassed. On the other end of the spectrum, a person over 70 should not be stopped due to liability reasons. The last thing a business needs is for an elder person to have some type of health episode while in the store.
5. Taking a Risk - There are a lot of rules that loss prevention employees must follow. However, a lot of them will take risks in order to prevent shoplifting from occurring. Have these employees know which rules are guidelines and which are laws that should not be broken. A few pieces of stolen merchandise is not worth the hassle of a lawsuit.

Shoplifting is a crime that many businesses are trying to prevent from happening too often. A good way to cut down on shoplifting and potential lawsuits is to install security cameras throughout your place of business. To learn more, or to schedule a free estimate, contact the pros at Reliable Voice & Data Systems by calling (877) 385-6657.

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