Doorbell cameras and wireless surveillance cameras are getting less and less expensive, so almost anyone can afford to install them.
Most of these cameras do not require professional setup and work through your home Wi-Fi.
This raises some questions about liability for you and security from hackers.
Huntington resident Gordon Ramey got the Ring doorbell video camera as a gift for Christmas. He said it keeps a close eye on anyone who approached his house and even sends him alerts on the phone.
"Once I got it, I loved it. It's phenomenal. It's security for my house and if someone steals a package from my porch, I can get them on video,” Ramey said.
While these low-cost security cameras are popping up everywhere, there are some things you need to think about.
David Barnette, an attorney with Jackson Kelly law firm in Charleston who specializes in privacy law, said anyone can record in most public places. He said there could be limits with these cameras, however, especially since you can share video with others in the Ring community.
"These cameras should be aimed at your property,” Barnette said. “There's an expectation of privacy when you talk about backyard, windows and bathrooms. It could be a violation of criminal and civil law.”
Barnette said it also is a good idea to let people know they are under surveillance.
Ramey posted a sticker above his door that could deter a potential burglar.
Experts say if someone hacks into your security camera, exposing everyone who passes by your house, like friends, family or even yourself, there are two things you can do: update your software or use unique passwords.
Since these cameras use your home Wi-Fi, hackers can use that to get into your system. This then gives them access to what you share with others in the online community.
"I think we've got to be careful. If it's used improperly, that's not good. We've got to take a look at it,” Ramey said.
The Ring company, which has a video doorbell, recently filed a patent to put its facial recognition identification software into the doorbells. This would flag suspicious people. No word yet when that will happen.