CCTV Video Equipment (other wise known as Closed Circuit Television) has been used for the purpose of security surveillance for many years. It differs from broadcast TV equipment as that every part is linked by cables or other direct means. Closed Circuit Television is used by security teams most often where there is a high need for extra security measures. Most all banks, airports and many apartment complexes incorporate it into their security programs.

CCTV Video Equipment was originally developed to help strengthen security in banks however lately there has been some debate over privacy issues with the usage of Closed Circuit Television. As technology has advanced CCTV Video Equipment has become quite simple and inexpensive to use making it a popular choice for home security and for use in surveillance by many private investigators.

The United Kingdom worked in developing systems as a result of terrorist bombings in the 1970's and 1980's. Today in England there are Closed Circuit TV equipment in many bus stations, public areas and apartment buildings. It used in the United Kingdom has shown to have reduced the amount of crime in parking lots and also crimes against taxi drivers.

The usage of it in the United States in much less common then in the United Kingdom as it's use tends to bring strong opposition because of privacy issues.

While some say that the use of it does help to deter crimes from happening, CCTV Video Equipment's most notable use is in the identification and prosecution of the criminals that are perpetrating the crimes.

Closed Circuit TV has aided in the capture and prosecution of notable terrorist bombers and child abductors. Utilizing it to track the whereabouts of abducted children has become quite commonplace with law enforcement agencies today.

CCTV Video Equipment has also helped keep many law enforcement agencies in check. For instance Closed Circuit TV aided an dismissing some of the claims made by British police when Jean Charles de Menezes, who police officials claimed was responsible for bombing a London subway, was shot to death by police officers.

It is also proving to be useful on the roadways of both the United Kingdom and the United States. Closed Circuit Television can be used to monitor areas of possible traffic congestion and detect when an accident happens. They can also be used to identify and apprehend those breaking traffic laws such as speeding.

While there has been some strong opposition against the overuse and misuse of CCTV Video Equipment systems, Closed Circuit TV has proven in many cases to be a very useful tool in assisting with keeping individuals safe and helping to apprehend those who commit crimes against others.