Glossary A–ZLetter V
Video surveillance (notice sign)
A video surveillance notice sign informs people, before they enter an area covered by cameras, who is filming there, for what purpose and where further information is available.
It serves the information obligation under the GDPR. The supervisory authorities recommend a two-layer approach.
The first layer is the sign itself, clearly visible and roughly at eye level. According to the recommendations of the German supervisory authorities, it should include a camera symbol, the controller with contact details, the data protection officer where one has been appointed, the purpose and legal basis in brief, the legitimate interest and, where applicable, the storage period. The second layer is a complete information sheet available on site or online. For screens, the topic becomes relevant when a camera in or on the device records viewers.
A sign does not make surveillance lawful; it is only one of several obligations alongside a legal basis, storage limitation and, where applicable, an impact assessment. Processing that nobody would expect, such as analysis for advertising purposes, should be pointed out particularly clearly. Operators should place the sign where it can be seen before entering the covered area. This glossary is not legal advice.