Florian Franz – NetCo Professional Services GmbH

ECJ ruling on Body-Cams: What the ruling means for GDPR-compliant use

Florian Franz — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 13:02:03 +0000

The most important things in brief

In its judgment of December 18, 2025, the European Court of Justice made a groundbreaking decision regarding the use of Body-Cams in Europe. At its core, it concerns the question: What data protection information obligations apply when ticket inspectors, security personnel, or other employees wear body cameras?

The ECJ’s answer is clear: Art. 13 GDPR is applicable. This means that affected persons must be informed immediately at the time of recording and not only subsequently as with Art. 14 GDPR.

The judgment thus confirms a line that we at NetCo have been advocating for years: GDPR-compliant Body-Cam use is not only possible, but also mandatory for the protection of passenger rights as well as for the admissibility of evidence in court.

Initial situation: 355,000 euro fine in Stockholm

Since December 2018, the Swedish transport company AB Storstockholms Lokaltrafik (SL) has equipped its ticket inspectors with Body-Cams. The goals were understandable: to document threatening situations, prevent assaults, and identify passengers without valid tickets. A concern that is gaining importance in view of increasing acts of violence against public transport personnel throughout Europe.

However, in June 2021, the Swedish Data Protection Authority imposed a fine of around 355,000 euros. The accusation: Passengers were not informed about the data processing in accordance with Art. 13 GDPR.

The transport company argued that this was data collection within the meaning of Art. 14 GDPR, since the passengers did not actively provide their data. The Supreme Administrative Court of Sweden finally submitted the question to the ECJ.

The core statements of the ECJ ruling

Article 13 GDPR is applicable – not Article 14

The ECJ clarifies: If a person is recorded by a Body-Cam, they themselves are the source of the data. The data is collected directly from the data subject, even if they are neither actively acting nor aware of the recording.

Article 14 GDPR only applies if the controller has no direct contact with the data subject and receives the data from another source. This is not the case with Body-Cams.

The information must be provided immediately

According to Art. 13 para. 1 GDPR, the information must be provided “at the time of collection.” The ECJ emphasizes: Subsequent information is generally not sufficient for Body-Cams. Those affected should be able to understand as early as possible that filming is taking place and for what purpose.

The Court warns: Without timely information, there is a risk of covert surveillance practices. This constitutes a violation of Articles 7 and 8 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights.

Practical implementation: The layered information model

The ECJ refers to the Guidelines 3/2019 of the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) on video surveillance. According to these guidelines, the obligation to provide information can be fulfilled in a multi-layered procedure:

Level 1: On-site note

The most important information must be immediately visible – for example, on a sign in the vehicles, on the uniform of the inspection personnel, or via a signal light on the Body-Cam. The core information includes:

Name and contact details of the responsible person
Purpose of data processing (e.g., protection of personnel, de-escalation)
Legal basis for processing
Recipients of the data
Storage duration of recordings
Reference to rights to information and deletion

Level 2: Complete Data Protection Information

The complete mandatory information can be made available in an easily accessible location, such as via QR code on the information sign, posted in the vehicles, or on the transport company’s website.

GDPR-compliant Body-Cam deployment: How to implement it successfully

The ECJ ruling confirms what we at NetCo have been putting into practice for years: bodycams can be used in compliance with the GDPR—if the right measures are implemented from the outset. From camera recording to data processing, our solution complies with European data protection guidelines.

Checklist for GDPR-compliant use

To ensure the legal use of Body-Cams, the following points must be observed:

Create an operational concept: The operation is only permitted if it is carried out for previously defined purposes related to the specific occasion.
Define the purpose of processing: For example, protecting your own staff from assaults.
Establish a processing directory: Documentation of all processing activities.
Comply with transparency requirements: Implement the information obligation under Article 13 GDPR.
Adapt company agreement: The deployment concept should become part of a service or company agreement.
Conduct a data protection impact assessment: Risk assessment for the rights of data subjects.
Take technical and organizational measures (TOM): Ensure the protection of personal data.

Tip: Free guide to GDPR-compliant body camera use offers proven strategies from market leaders and success stories with concrete figures.

„

In no other country is the use of body cams so heavily regulated by data protection laws. As the only German manufacturer, we know how to ensure GDPR-compliant use.

“

Dr. Matthias Hagner, CEO NetCo Body-Cam

De-escalation instead of mere documentation

The ECJ ruling strengthens information obligations but does not question the fundamental usefulness of Body-Cams. On the contrary, when used correctly, body cameras are an effective tool for de-escalation and for protecting staff.

The numbers speak for themselves: At Deutsche Bahn alone, over 75,000 acts of violence against employees have been recorded since 2022. The Railway and Transport Union (EVG) expressly supports the use of Body-Cams as a preventive measure.

The NetCo Body-Cam relies on a unique approach: the large front display with mirror function confronts aggressive individuals directly with their own behavior. This is followed by the opportunity for reflection and perception of possible consequences. This prevents criminal offenses – not just documenting them.

The results from practice:

Proven in practice

NetCo Body-Cams have been successfully used in several countries for more than five years. Our customers include, for example:

Deutsche Bahn: Deployment to protect inspection staff
Cologne Transport Authority (KVB): Public transport safety in a city of millions
Vienna Public Transport: De-escalation through front display
Bremen Police: reliable resource since 2018
Duisburg Public Order Office: consistently positive feedback from emergency services
Duisburg Public Order Office: consistently positive feedback from emergency services

Sharing knowledge: The Body Cam Conference

The annual body-cam conference brings together experts from police, public transport, security services, and municipalities.

Under the motto “Expertise – Network – Best Practice,” the conference offers a platform for the latest developments, challenges, and best practices regarding the use of Body-Cams and all related topics, including data protection.

The next conference will take place on May 27, 2026, in Frankfurt.

Transparency and protection belong together.

The ECJ ruling sets a clear data protection standard: anyone who films people with Body-Cams must also inform them immediately. Reliance on Art. 14 GDPR, and thus the possibility of subsequent or absent information, is excluded for body cameras.

For transport companies, municipal law enforcement agencies and security companies, this means that Body-Cam concepts must be thought of holistically. In addition to a sustainable legal basis and short deletion periods, visible, understandable and multi-level data protection notices are indispensable.

As the only German manufacturer of Body-Cams, we at NetCo know the requirements of German data protection law exactly. Our solutions, from hardware to software to comprehensive guidelines, are specially developed for GDPR-compliant use.

Data protection cannot be an afterthought. Transparency begins with the first image.

Legal Foundations

ECJ, judgment of December 18, 2025 – C-422/24
Art. 13 GDPR – Duty to provide information when collecting data from the data subject
Art. 14 GDPR – Duty to provide information when collecting data from other sources
EDSA Guidelines 3/2019 on the processing of personal data by video devices
Articles 7 and 8 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do passengers have to consent to the Body-Cam recording?

No. The recording can be made on the basis of a legitimate interest according to Art. 6 para. 1 lit. f GDPR. Consent is not required – but information according to Art. 13 GDPR is.

Does the ruling also apply to pre-recording functions?

Yes. As soon as the camera is activated and image data is captured, data collection is taking place. The NetCo Body-Cam offers a pre-recording function of up to 120 seconds – ensuring that crucial moments are always captured, even if the recording starts later.

Can Body-Cam recordings be used in court?

Yes – but only with GDPR-compliant use. The ruling emphasizes: Without adhering to the information obligations, transport companies risk not only fines but also the usability of the recordings. The NetCo solution was specifically developed for German data protection requirements.

How long may the recordings be stored?

As short as possible. The storage duration depends on the purpose. For the documentation of incidents, a few days to weeks is common. Longer retention periods require a special justification.

Der Beitrag ECJ ruling on Body-Cams: What the ruling means for GDPR-compliant use erschien zuerst auf NetCo Professional Services GmbH.

Case Study: Stölting Trainservice – LTE Body Cam

Florian Franz — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 09:53:47 +0000

Flexibility where it's needed

Body cameras have long been an integral part of many security and law enforcement operations: they help de-escalate situations, protect employees, and provide evidence-based recordings in emergencies.

The classic NetCo Body Cam Pro with SmartHub for data transfer is the right solution for many organizations—for example, when emergency personnel return to headquarters on a daily basis. Here, data transfer takes place automatically and securely when docking with the SmartHub if a recording has been made during the operation.

For security personnel who are not regularly connected to a central control room, the new NetCo Body-Cam Pro LTE offers a practical alternative:

Experience report: Stölting Trainservice GmbH

Stölting Trainservice GmbH, one of the largest security service providers in public transport in North Rhine-Westphalia with over 500 security staff, already uses around 170 NetCo bodycams with LTE in daily operations.

LTE body cameras are primarily used in inspection services and passenger escorting. The aim is to increase the subjective safety of passengers, de-escalate situations and document critical situations in a manner that preserves evidence – especially on routes with increased potential for conflict and at major events such as Euro 2024.

„

LTE is recommended for anyone who needs to remain flexible in a wide area without maximizing logistical effort – for example, in public transport.

“

Marcel Kantorek, Operations Management, Stölting Trainservice GmbH

Why a body cam with LTE instead of SmartHub?

Where is the deployment recommended?

Outlook for the future

Looking back, would you make the same decision again?

„

Yes, we would choose LTE again anytime. Anything else makes no sense – comprehensive rollout without major logistical effort is only possible this way.

“

Marcel Kantorek, Operations Management, Stölting Trainservice GmbH

How do you see the future demand for LTE bodycams in your industry?

„

Demand will increase, as body cameras are generally a good way to de-escalate dangerous situations. Flexibility is becoming increasingly important in order to be able to react quickly to changing situations. Stationary solutions are too cumbersome for our purposes.

“

Marcel Kantorek, Operations Management, Stölting Trainservice GmbH

According to expert estimates, demand for flexible body cam solutions will continue to rise. LTE complements existing location-based SmartHub solutions and makes body cams more flexible.

NetCo Body-Cam Pro: Focus on de-escalation and data protection

A body camera is more than just a technical device for securing evidence – it is a tool for de-escalation and must be used in compliance with the GDPR. To ensure that you are prepared, we have created a practical guide:

[contact-form-7]

Conclusion

The NetCo Body-Cam Pro LTE offers security and law enforcement officers two solutions:

The advantages of the NetCo Body-Cam Pro LTE are particularly evident in a dynamic environment such as public transport, where locations are constantly changing.

„

The LTE version is simply more practical for us and can be used across the board without any problems. With LTE technology, the devices can remain with the employees.

“

Marcel Kantorek, Operations Management, Stölting Trainservice GmbH

Stölting Trainservice demonstrates how modern security teams benefit from LTE – less logistics, more protection, more efficiency.

Book a free consultation now

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Der Beitrag Case Study: Stölting Trainservice – LTE Body Cam erschien zuerst auf NetCo Professional Services GmbH.

Bochum Municipality

Florian Franz — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 08:59:11 +0000

Bochum Municipality

Organization

The municipality of Bochum is the sixth largest city in North Rhine-Westphalia and the second largest city in Westphalia. It employs around 6000 people and uses body-cams in its municipal law enforcement service.

Body-Cam Application

Start:

2023

Main Objective:

Body-cams are used to prevent attacks on law enforcement officers and citizens.

Application:

To reduce the number of assaults on employees and to protect them, as well as to ensure safety and order for Bochums citizens.

Feedback:

Due to the increasing number of assaults on employees in their operations, the Bochum city administration is using 15 NetCo body-cams to prevent potentially dangerous situations and protect the health of its employees. They have been specially trained to react in the best possible way in these situations.

As a result, they are hoping that the number of assaults will drop towards zero and that hostility towards municipal law enforcement officers will stop. Furthermore, incidents can be documented and handed over to the public prosecutor’s office as evidence.

Here you can find out more about the use of bodycams by the municipal police: Bodycams for municipal police | City of Bochum

2023

Body-cams are used to prevent attacks on law enforcement officers and citizens.

To reduce the number of assaults on employees and to protect them, as well as to ensure safety and order for Bochums citizens.

Here you can find out more about the use of bodycams by the municipal police: Bodycams for municipal police | City of Bochum

Further References

Der Beitrag Bochum Municipality erschien zuerst auf NetCo Professional Services GmbH.

Preventing violence: Body-Cams reduce tensions at the airport

Florian Franz — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 06:40:44 +0000

Recently, both passengers and airport staff have had to put up with a lot: Strike-related flight cancellations, delays and long queues have strained the nerves of everyone involved. Ahead of this, the covid related tensions had already created potential for escalation at the airports and posed a safety risk for staff and passengers alike.

Added to this:

Due to the pandemic, there is a growing shortage of skilled workers at airports: between 2019 and 2021, the number of aviation employees has fallen by 4%. According to the german trade union Verdi, there is a shortage of 20% of ground staff and, in addition, there is a high rate of sick leave – caused, among other things, by the increase in psychological and physical violence. This is because, especially during vacation periods, a high travel demand meets few personnel, which provides a breeding ground for conflicts and escalations. Disrespectful behavior, threats and physical assaults against staff are therefore becoming more frequent at airports. Frustration and anger turn into violence: flight cancellations, delays, invalid PCR test certificates or intoxicated passengers are just a few examples of why conflicts are triggered.

The shortage of ground personnel, who among other things enforce the strict security measures at the airport, also is accompanied by federal police officers specializing in “aviation security” as well as aviation security assistants employed by private security companies, who in some cases take over the duties of the federal police (passenger and baggage screening). The security assistants are particularly vulnerable to attacks by aggressors.

More protection needed for employees at Airports

To ensure that violent attacks are prevented in the first place, a wide-ranging security network has been set up at transport locations over the years. Video surveillance in places with large crowds and the avoidance of “dark corners” by providing plenty of light are just a few examples.
Body-Cams can also be part of this package of measures. It has long been proven that Body-Cams can be used at train stations, on local public transport or by municipal law enforcement agencies: Wearing body cams deters aggressors from further escalating a conflict. What works well at other transportation and traffic centers is now also making the day-to-day work of airport staff easier.

Why should Body-Cams be used at airports?

Body-Cams are non-violent deployment tools for all employees in the security sector with many functions and advantages:

De-escalation instead of pure documentation: In the last of three de-escalation levels, body cams can not only record conflict situations, but are additionally intended to ensure that video recording does not have to occur in the first place. The mere presence of a Body-Cam on the uniform of a security employee at the airport is already intended to deter aggressors and prompt them to refrain from a planned assault – for example, in the case of conflicts at baggage checks.

To further de-escalate a conflictual situation, the security personnel can also activate the front display of the Body-Cam so that the opponent is reflected in the display – the inappropriate behavior is held up to the troublemaker like a mirror. Only if the situation gets out of hand, the Body-Cam recording will be started (after prior notification). For more information on the three de-escalation levels of Body-Cams, click here: Body-Cams: A non-violent means of de-escalation? (netco.de)

Employee protection: Body-cams can provide an even safer environment at Airports. Due to the proven de-escalating and deterrent effect of the Body-Cam, there are fewer assaults or workplace accidents. As a result, staff experience an increased sense of security in their day-to-day work, psychological stress decreases and the sickness rate is also reduced.

Coping with the high staff shortage and staff absences: If an airport security employee is equipped with a Body-Cam, the Body-Cam provides the employee with protection and evidence at the same time, therefore less security personnel can be deployed in certain situations.

Criminal prosecution and court accountability: False accusations are often made against the staff. Body-cam recordings provide tangible evidence as an “objective third party”. The Body-Cam recordings are also manipulation-proof and can therefore be used in court.

Data protection compliance: Body-cams are only used for a specific purpose, so that there is no (continuous) filming of uninvolved third parties. In addition, the video material cannot be manipulated. It is sent directly to a server and can only be viewed by a few authorized persons. If there is no criminal offense, videos are irreversibly deleted within a short time.

To ensure that the use of a Body-Cam has the desired de-escalating effect, security personnel are trained in its correct use beforehand, for example as part of a comprehensive de-escalation training course. In this context, the legal aspects of Body-Cam use are also addressed.

Private security companies that want to try out a complete body-cam solution can also rent the body cameras including accessories on a trial basis. We have compiled further information and a rental calculator here: Contact Body-Cam – NetCo Professional Services GmbH

Der Beitrag Preventing violence: Body-Cams reduce tensions at the airport erschien zuerst auf NetCo Professional Services GmbH.

New Year’s Eve: When helpers themselves become victims – more protection through body cams demanded

Florian Franz — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 11:02:20 +0000

The recent events of New Year’s Eve in Berlin and other German cities have once again shown that the potential for aggression and the willingness to use violence have increased in society. The extent of the riots and the rage of the perpetrators have shaken the population and have led to louder calls for security forces to be equipped with body cams. The police, fire brigade and rescue services, who make an important contribution to society, are increasingly becoming victims themselves and are unable to carry out their duties due to assaults. Therefore, the ever-increasing unrest – including that on New Year’s Eve – affects each and every one of us.

How can emergency and rescue forces protect themselves from violent attacks?

Body cams have a proven de-escalating effect and prevent the escalation of a conflict in many situations. On New Year’s Eve, however, the intensity of the riots clearly showed that de-escalation of the situation is not possible: the perpetrators deliberately set out to attack emergency and rescue forces. On other days of the year, too, helpers are increasingly exposed to attacks by violent fellow human beings, especially when alcohol and drugs are involved and the attackers can no longer think rationally.
In such cases, the body cam takes on the function of preserving evidence for prosecution: The recorded assaults on emergency forces can be used in court and can, on the one hand, record the offence and any accompanying damage to property and, on the other hand, serve to better identify the perpetrators.

What other positive effects do body cams have?

The use of body cams not only provides increased protection for the emergency services, but can also give those affected by violent attacks a greater sense of security in their everyday lives. In addition, the cameras can counteract the increasing disrespect towards security personnel and also serve to deter perpetrators. Thus, body cams make the everyday life of security forces safer and less violent.

Der Beitrag New Year’s Eve: When helpers themselves become victims – more protection through body cams demanded erschien zuerst auf NetCo Professional Services GmbH.

Body cams: The non-violent method for de-escalating conflict-laden situations

Florian Franz — Thu, 19 Jan 2023 15:07:48 +0000

When a conflict builds up, security personnel do not have many options to de-escalate it. Police officers in particular may also use means such as tasers and pepper spray for this purpose, which can endanger the health of the aggressors. The use of a body cam, on the other hand, is not only a (cost-)effective but also a non-violent alternative that has been proven to preventively counteract the escalation of conflicts and dangerous situations. This is especially true for body cams with a front display.

What Is The Advantage Of A Body Cam With Front Display?

Imagine the following situation: On a Saturday evening in a large city, passers-by are being harassed by a hooligan. Two police officers, each equipped with a body cam, are on patrol on foot, see the incident and intervene. The main goal of the police officers is to peacefully resolve the situation and avoid an escalation of the conflict – for the safety of the passers-by and for their own protection.

3 De-escalation Levels: This Is How The Body Cam Helps

The body cam supports its wearers in passing through the three de-escalation stages:

1. Showing Presence With The Body Cam

Often the wearing of the camera or the verbal reference to it already has a de-escalating effect, so that a further assault or the escalation of a situation can be prevented. In addition to the clearly visible front display, a patch can also be attached to the uniform jacket or an additional sticker on the camera with the inscription “Video”, so that the function of the body cam can be assessed from a distance. In our example, the rioter could notice the body camera on the uniform of the police officers as soon as they approach him.

At best, the rioter is now deterred from showing himself (verbally and physically) ready to use violence, as the police officers can directly record an image and sound evidence for prosecution, should he ignore the officers’ request to cease and desist and continue to harass the passers-by. The presence of the body cam thus also contributes to raising the inhibition threshold to escalate a conflict.

2. Indication Of Upcoming Recording - Activation Of The Mirror Function

Some rioters are so enraged that they cannot perceive or rationally assess the presence of body cams and the consequences of their own behaviour through law enforcement. The safety of officers, involved passers-by and also uninvolved third parties is at risk.
If the situation cannot be calmed down by the presence of the cameras, the police officers must resort to defusing the situation with the help of the second de-escalation level: They inform the troublemaker that they will turn on the camera if he does not adjust his behaviour and stop the harassment. So that it does not remain a mere verbal hint and the rioter sees that these are not empty threats, the officers can activate the large front display – through the mirror function, the counterpart now sees himself in the screen and his own negative behaviour is visually shown to the rioter. However, the body cam does not yet record the situation.

3. Start The Body Cam Recording

If, for this or another reason, the rioter is not deterred by the previous measures, continues his harassment or even attacks the police officers unchallenged, the emergency services activate the body cam recording: the situation is now recorded with images and sound and can serve as evidence for the public prosecutor’s office – if the rioter cannot be dissuaded from further actions. The NetCo Body-Cam documents every single detail in a legally secure manner.
(Further information on the GDPR-compliant NetCo Body-Cam can be found here: DSGVO-compliant Body-Cam use – Everything you need to know).

The Functions Of The Large Front Display At A Glance:

In 50% of cases, a conflict or dangerous situation can be de-escalated by switching on the body-cam front display, which noticeably reduces the number of incidents.

Der Beitrag Body cams: The non-violent method for de-escalating conflict-laden situations erschien zuerst auf NetCo Professional Services GmbH.

Why Security Forces Should Only Use Professional Body Cams

Florian Franz — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 16:03:19 +0000

With just a few clicks, it is possible to purchase inexpensive body cams from various online providers, which, in addition to the main target group of “consumers”, also advertise their use for security personnel. At first glance, it seems that such a “consumer body cam” can be exchanged for a professional version that serves the same purpose – the protection of emergency personnel and the de-escalation of conflict situations – in equal measure.

We explain why security forces should definitely opt for a professional body cam.

What Is The Legal Situation Regarding The Use Of Body Cams?

Body cams may only record situations with images and sound if there is a specific purpose (e.g. a conflict or a dangerous situation). Legally, the collection of evidence for criminal prosecution (is the responsibility of the police) and the increase of the own sense of security do not count.
In addition, the following applies: before using a body cam, an operational concept (GDPR-Compliant Body Cam Use – Everything You Need To Consider (netco.de)) must be created that includes when and by whom a body cam may be used. In addition, filming in sensitive locations (e.g. medical supply stores) must be ruled out and documentation of the technical-organizational measures (TOM) for handling personal data is required.

What Distinguishes A Professional Body Cam?

GDPR-compliant

Professional body cams and their associated management software are developed and manufactured in accordance with the applicable data protection regulations. Security employees complete tailored training courses to learn the legal and technical handling of the cameras.

Data protection-compliant configurations are preset on the body cam to ensure legally compliant handling and to protect the privacy rights of third parties. Recorded videos, for example, cannot be played back on the camera itself, but must first be encrypted and uploaded to a secure server via the camera charging station (SmartHub). Only the persons specified in the operational concept can view body cam recordings that are to be forwarded to the public prosecutor’s office. Consequently, videos can also only be deleted by this group of people. Deletion on the camera itself is prohibited, as otherwise a police officer, for example, could delete a video directly on the camera that is unpleasant for himself. However, body cams are also intended to provide evidence if an officer has not behaved correctly, so the person recording and the person deleting the video must not be the same person.
It is therefore essential to be able to make user, rights and role distribution settings in the body cam management software.

Customized accessories

In addition to SmartHubs, other accessories such as holders are needed for successful body cam use (Matching Accessories For Body Cams – NetCo Professional Services GmbH). When attaching cameras to uniforms, holders must be procured individually; with standard products, there is a risk that the body cam will slip or even fall off, making it impossible to record in an emergency.

Support

Professional body cam providers not only have a great deal of expertise with regard to the cameras, but also develop suitable accessories tailored to the user. Often there are also cooperations with other specialist companies, for example, to be able to offer holders with special requirements. Consequently, professional providers are characterized by their extensive and customer-oriented (technical) support. As a German body cam developer, NetCo even offers its customers fast and expert help in the local language.

What Are "Consumer Body Cams" Good For?

Body cams that can be purchased by consumers either do not have the data protection regulations at all or not completely. Many cameras offered on the internet have no accompanying software, and videos can be played and deleted on the device itself. If software is available, there are often few setting options: user, rights and role distribution settings are missing.

In addition, it should be noted that there is usually no customer service or only foreign-language customer service for “consumer body cams” if problems arise.

Consequently, a “consumer body cam” cannot be used for documentation and de-escalation of conflict and dangerous situations due to the mentioned weaknesses.

Our customer service is often asked whether body cams can be used to collect evidence in neighborhood conflicts, for example. For private individuals, the following applies: in public places, the cameras may be worn. “Permanent” filming is not permitted, however. In addition, persons being filmed must express consent before the recording begins. Recording without prior consent may result in legal consequences.

Consequently, the use of consumer body cams is aimed at documenting sports and other hobby activities where other people are not filmed.

Conclusion

Security services should urgently refrain from “consumer body cams” in order to be able to comply with the data protection requirements of a body cam deployment. In addition, you benefit from customizable accessories and expert (technical) support when using professional body cams.

Der Beitrag Why Security Forces Should Only Use Professional Body Cams erschien zuerst auf NetCo Professional Services GmbH.

Body Cam With Front Display In Use At The Bonn City Police – Interview With Sascha Hessenbruch

Florian Franz — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 16:03:00 +0000

In addition to the Duisburg public order office (Duisburg Tests Body Cams – NetCo Professional Services GmbH), the city of Bonn also already uses body cams. Sascha Hessenbruch, head of the administrative offences and public order department at the city of Bonn, spoke to NetCo about the use of cameras at the Bonn public order department and the de-escalating effect of a body cam with front display.

Mr. Hessenbruch, you are in charge of the "Body Cam" project for the Bonn city police. How long have you been using the cameras?

In Bonn, we have been using a total of 40 body cams since the beginning of June 2022. By council resolution, we are obliged to evaluate this deployment after one year – i.e. in June 2023.

Why did you decide to use body cams?

In our council resolution in 2020, it was already decided to purchase body cams to protect our emergency forces. At that time, there was no legal basis in NRW for using body cams. It was merely part of the political discussion. So we were early in the planning in Bonn. The legal change in the Public Order Authorities Act then came only in the summer of 2021, after which we implemented the decision – as quickly as is possible with a procurement procedure.

How does the front display in particular help your emergency response teams?

We actually notice a de-escalating effect. Not everyone agrees on whether the front display actually has this effect, but this is how we perceive it: at the moment when the front display is switched on, the camera is not yet recording, but is only in an operating mode. In this one, it truly helps de-escalate situations when the other person sees themselves in the display. So it de-escalates the situation as a whole, especially the behavior of the other person.

That means that body cam recording only occurs on rare occasions for you?

Exactly, this has only happened very rarely so far. Maybe we had 2 or 3 cases where the body cam actually recorded the situation, but it won’t have been much more. In most cases, it is enough to turn on the body cam front display.

How is the body cam received by your emergency forces?

It’s getting better and better, but that’s a process with everything that’s new.
We use the body cam primarily in two areas: firstly, in our patrol service (city order service) and secondly, at the GABI police station, which we operate together with the police. At the GABI station, the body cam was initially used somewhat more than in the city order service, because the emergency forces there are also confronted with other situations. In the meantime, however, the body cam is being used very actively by everyone, and most of them have now also completed their training.

Our body cams are not personalized, but we have them each in a pool. Of course, we have to make a few adjustments every now and then to make the handling of the body cams as uncomplicated as possible for our colleagues. The more complicated it is, the more often the body cam is simply left standing and not used. That’s why we have reworked the handling and wearing comfort – keyword: holders – and it now works well.

How do the people of Bonn react to the body cams and the front display?

To be honest, they don’t react at all. We have been very open with the acquisition project of the body cams and have informed very broadly. Since our press event on June 3rd this year, the body cams have been in use. The local newspapers – the Lokalzeit, the WDR, the radio – have been here with us, have accompanied our task forces, have informed themselves, have in turn informed the readers, viewers, listeners. Since then, there have been virtually no reactions from the public. What has happened from time to time is that people say “Yes, that’s a good thing that you’re out and about with the body cams,” but I haven’t heard any negative reactions. After all, the point is to document certain operational situations to protect emergency personnel. Many people have found that these situations do exist and that employees need to be protected accordingly.

Many have data protection concerns. Was that the case for you before you acquired the body cams?

No, data protection was not a big issue for us at all. We are often confronted with data protection issues being brought to our attention from outside, but this has not yet happened with the body cams. The topic of data protection is much less exciting for a regulatory authority – at least in NRW – because ultimately there is also a clear legal basis for it. The legal framework is anchored in the Public Order Authorities Act and the Police Act, with the result that we have less to worry about than, for example, the KVB or other private companies. And that’s why no one is questioning it.
Internally, of course, we still considered data protection issues: who can see and edit recordings? Could there possibly be consequences under employment law if certain things are recorded? But the purpose of a body cam recording – namely a regulatory purpose – is very clearly outlined, so data protection is not a problem here either. We have a clear authorization concept for all issues, and our software system is also data protection-compliant.

Thank you very much for the interview, Mr. Hessenbruch!

About The Person:

Sascha Hessenbruch is head of the department for general misdemeanors, traffic offenses, the city’s public order service and the Bonn city center joint contact point (GABI station – regulatory partnership between the state police and the public order office) at the city of Bonn. Thus, he is also the contact person when it comes to the topic of body cam.
At the next NetCo Body Cam Conference on June 14th, 2023 in Cologne (2nd Body Cam Conference – Secure tickets for the next conference now (netco.de)), he will give a presentation on the body cam evaluation of the first year at the Bonn City Police Service.

Der Beitrag Body Cam With Front Display In Use At The Bonn City Police – Interview With Sascha Hessenbruch erschien zuerst auf NetCo Professional Services GmbH.

Multifunctional In Use: Live Streaming With The Body Cam

Florian Franz — Thu, 20 Oct 2022 08:31:00 +0000

Body cams are mainly used in the security industry. In addition to the classic documentation and preservation of evidence in conflict and dangerous situations for the police or in local and long-distance traffic, the cameras also serve other fields of application in which the focus is primarily on live streaming.

How does The Body Cam Live Stream Work?

With the NetCo body cam version “Connect”, recordings from the location of the event can be transmitted directly to another location via live stream. A body cam live stream can optionally be established via WLAN, LTE or, depending on the camera’s settings, also via a media player such as VLC. If the body cam is connected to the server and switched on, but is not in the SmartHub, a live stream can be retrieved from the camera. The streaming body cam is then marked with orange color in the device overview in the management software. It is also possible to call up the live stream of several body cams in the device overview.

Lone worker - Live Remote Support

What are the challenges for lone workers?

Employees who work in the field and take on repairs, for example, are often left to their own devices in their daily work. The only contact with colleagues for questions is via telephone. The field service employee has to explain the situation on site to his colleagues at a distance in a long-winded and eloquent manner, which can be particularly complicated in the case of complex technical problems with machines. The work process drags on and often no direct solution can be found – the field service employee has to postpone solving the problem.

What can body cam live streaming assist lone workers with?

If the lone worker uses a body cam, he can attach it to his work clothes with a suitable holder (see Matching Accessories For Body Cams – NetCo Professional Services GmbH) and has both hands free for his work to be done. If he has any questions for his colleagues, he can quickly activate the body cam live stream and transmit live images to his colleagues’ smartphone, tablet or computer.

These are the advantages at a glance:

Savings in travel costs: additional employees do not have to travel to the scene of the event, but can give instructions via live stream.
Immediate support from a distance: With the body cam live stream, the field worker can connect directly with his colleagues and receive quick help and guidance on his issue through the live images.
Visual and efficient communication: The lone worker can use live streaming to not only literally explain the problem to his colleagues on site, but also show them a picture of it.

For strong teams: visual communication also increases colleague cohesion and improves collaboration.

Increased Security And Fast Communication Through Live Images At Major Events

What are the challenges at large events?

Security concepts for sporting events or concerts have to be planned well in advance; on the day of the events, a smooth flow of the security chain has to be ensured in case of incidents. But not all scenarios that can endanger the safety of event participants can be foreseen. If a dangerous situation arises, the emergency forces must act quickly.

How does a body cam live stream provide more security at large events?

If the security forces closest to the dangerous situation are equipped with a body cam, they can transmit what is happening on site with live images directly to the central control center, from where further measures can be coordinated. In this way, the emergency forces do not have to provide a situation report, but can immediately seek assistance on site due to the modern technology and the automatically transmitted live information.

These are the advantages at a glance:

Fast and improved risk assessment: Visual communication through the live images transmitted by the body cam creates transparency from the situation on site and provides mission coordination with important insight into how high the security risk is for event participants and how many additional security personnel are needed. This information guarantees a quick response in the security management process.
Efficient communication: personnel at the scene of the incident can communicate immediately with the central operations coordination without having to use a lot of words and can coordinate the best possible course of action for the operation directly.
Increased safety: Speed and efficient communication lead to more safety at a large event and thus protect more participants, as valuable time can be saved.

Live Streaming Enables Real-Time Feedback During A Training Session

What are the challenges in training?

In today’s world, training is often organized across companies and conducted online at different locations simultaneously to save time and costs. For this purpose, a live stream is used in real time, which enables the exchange of opinions and question rounds. Conducting training with real-time feedback poses a challenge to the security industry, as practical exercises need to be tested in rapid execution and response. The fire department is a good example to illustrate this difficulty: prospective firefighters rely on the wealth of experience of their instructor or colleagues to assess the hazard situation and how best to respond during an operation. However, their work location varies depending on the call and can also take firefighters into confined and inaccessible spaces where communication options are limited. Some situations happen so quickly that it is almost impossible to reconstruct all the sequences of action in retrospect.

How can the body cam optimize training?

Body cams document situations seamlessly and can also record the sound, so that even fast actions can be analyzed with the help of the image and sound material in the follow-up. The body cam live stream even enables an immediate reaction to the training processes.

These are the advantages at a glance:

Feedback in real time: With the body cam live stream, instructors/trainers – who are following the training in front of the screen at a different location – can provide their participants with suggestions for improving their actions while the training is still in progress. This enables the immediate implementation and practice of the correct procedure and ensures more safety in the subsequent real-life application.
Every detail visible: The body cam, which has a 165° wide angle, streams from the training participant’s point of view and offers the instructor/trainer the opportunity to pay attention to the smallest details in addition to the broad overall picture.
Improvement of procedures: due to the multitude of information provided by the body cam live stream, applied procedures and methods can be better scrutinized and optimized.

Another advantage of body cam recordings: the video and audio footage can be stored for later training purposes or to familiarize new employees. This offers the possibility to collect video material for any potentially dangerous situation and to prepare the personnel in advance for it.

Summary: The Advantages Of Body Cam Live Streaming

In addition to the proven areas of application mentioned above, body cam live streaming can also be integrated into many other processes – for example, it could conceivably be used by paramedics who receive direct instructions from the emergency doctor via live stream in order to help patients in distress even more quickly.

Numerous occupational fields benefit from the visual real-time communication of the live stream in terms of time and cost savings and can facilitate and optimize their internal processes. Especially in the security industry, the use of the live stream leads to even safer procedures and thus protects the population better in the long run.

Would you also like to use the body cam live stream or get advice? Contact us: Contact Body Cam – NetCo Professional Services GmbH

Der Beitrag Multifunctional In Use: Live Streaming With The Body Cam erschien zuerst auf NetCo Professional Services GmbH.

Guest Article By Dr. Harald Olschok-Tautenhahn: Body Cams As A Central Element Of Occupational Health And Safety

Florian Franz — Fri, 07 Oct 2022 15:04:00 +0000

Property and plant security is the largest market segment for private security services, accounting for 60 percent of sales. In the last 20 years, numerous new tasks have been added in public areas, such as retail, local public transport, as city patrols in municipalities or for event and order services. But there is also an increasing need for security staff in hospitals, public buildings and job centers. The Corona pandemic has created additional tasks for the security industry through entrance or distance checks at public facilities, fever measurement and the protection of order services in vaccination centers. Revenue in Corona years 2020 and 2021 increased by 6.8 and about 9 percent, respectively. Overall, the security industry is expected to generate more than 10 billion euros in revenue for the first time this year.

The Security Industry Is Growing

The number of employees has risen from 80,000 in 1990 to around 260,000. Of these, around 25,000 work in aviation security and 10,000 in cash and valuables services. In addition, there are 4,000 detectives and 9,000 employees in companies of surveillance and alarm systems; this market segment is becoming increasingly important. Against the background of these differentiations, around 212,000 security personnel are employed in the “classic security services”, 130,000 of whom are employed in the 1,000 member companies of the Federal Association of the Security Industry (BDSW). The BDSW is the only employers’ association in the industry that concludes collective agreements with the trade unions.

I assume that the importance of the security industry will continue to grow in the future. The need for protection on the part of citizens, business, the state and government institutions will continue to grow. Self-provision will also become increasingly important in security matters. Security personnel are increasingly deployed to protect their fellow citizens in “conflict-prone” activities and are thus often themselves exposed to an increased risk of occupational accidents. The propensity for violence in society is on the rise. Figures from the German Statutory Accident Insurance Fund show that more and more employees in the sector are becoming victims of “confrontational accidents”. To prevent these, there are some measures that have been put in place and are part of the accident prevention regulations. The body cam could also be part of this package of measures in the future.

What Does The Accident Prevention Regulation For Guard And Security Services Contain?

In Germany, the statutory accident insurance (DGUC) plays a major role in occupational health and safety. It is financed exclusively by employer contributions. In order to protect the safety and health of employees and prevent accidents at work, the DGUV issues accident prevention regulations that specify preventive measures and employer obligations. They thus also indirectly influence the way in which services are provided.

The security industry is governed by DGUV regulation 24 for guard and security services. In addition to the elimination and adequate protection of hazardous areas, employees in the security industry are also required to monitor their activities if they are exposed to particular hazards. In addition, the objects to be secured must be regularly checked for hazards. Specific hazards must be taken into account during the briefing on these objects. In addition, equipment used by security personnel must be in proper working order.
Occupational accidents can have a variety of causes, but the increase in confrontational accidents, which will be discussed below, is striking.

Confrontations As A Frequent Cause Of Occupational Accidents

Employees of private security services are – as already mentioned – increasingly engaged in “conflict-prone” activities, which also leads to an increase in occupational accidents. In the public sector, 5% and in the commercial sector, 1.8% of occupational accidents can be assigned to the category “violence, attack, threat”. If we take the VBG Security Report 2018, which analyzes accident occurrences in the “security services” industry, we see that confrontations have increased significantly as a cause of accidents (1988: 6.8% of accident causes, 2018: 34.95%). This refers to all physical attacks on security personnel by third parties. Particularly many confrontation accidents are felt by department store detectives (25%), public transport employees (22%) and security personnel in residential homes or initial reception facilities for refugees (18%).

A total of 15,000 people are employed as department store detectives or store guards. Their main task is to apprehend offenders (mainly thefts) and record their personal details. Often the offenders try to escape or become assaultive towards the detectives, who may use irritant gas in their defense. In addition to falling and tripping accidents while pursuing fleeing thieves, 76% of all workplace accidents fall into the “confrontation” category.

The public transport sector employs 8,000 people who, among other things, work as ticket inspectors, escort buses, subways, commuter trains and trains, or check stations and stops. In all these activities, confrontations can occur in which personnel are injured. 74% of all accidents in public transport fall under the heading of “confrontations”. Staff are particularly at risk when coming into contact with intoxicated passengers; enforcing house rules also involves an increased risk of confrontations with groups.

The VBG Premium Procedure

To prevent occupational accidents, the VBG employers’ liability insurance association has for many years rewarded its member companies that, in addition to legal obligations, undertake special accident-prevention and health-maintenance measures. The maximum amount of this premium is 10,000 euros plus 1/1,000 of the reported wage and salary total, up to a maximum of 50,000 euros. Medical or investment costs of 40% are reimbursed. The premium procedure provides for the following measures, among others: special driver safety training for precinct and patrol drivers. For security forces in conflict-prone activities, de-escalation training to reduce stress and keep a cool head in an emergency. VBG also provides financial support for personal protective equipment, including stab and impact vests and ankle-high safety shoes. But a hepatitis A and B vaccination for security employees is also eligible for funding. An additional part of the premium process includes personal emergency signal systems, accident data loggers, and collision warning systems. The author has already pointed out in several places of the VBG that, in a revision of the premium procedure, body cams should definitely also be financially supported due to their preventive effect if the prerequisites are met.

What Does The DSK Guidance For Data Protection Supervisory Authorities Say About The Use Of Body Cams By Private Security Companies?

On February 22nd, 2019, the Data Protection Conference (DSK) published guidance on the use of body cams by private security companies. It states that the recording of images and sound with the aid of a body cam must correspond to a legitimate interest. Before using the body camera, it is therefore necessary to check which purpose is to be pursued with the body cam recording. The guidance mentions the following legitimate interests: “The protection of one’s own personnel against assaults, the subsequent identification of a crime suspect and the securing of evidence for the prosecution of civil claims.” In contrast, law enforcement assistance does not constitute a separate legitimate interest in the deployment of body cams. However, the use of body cams is possible in situations where persons behave aggressively or a situation threatens to escalate immediately.

In its guidance, the DSK states that it must be possible to objectively justify that body cams are suitable for achieving the above-mentioned purposes. It is questioned whether body cams can effectively prevent a crime through a subjectively possible deterrent effect. In addition, a conceivable provocative effect on potential offenders should also be taken into account.

The guidance advises that interests such as personal rights should be weighed up carefully and that body cams should only be used if their use is suitable and necessary. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of transparency: the persons being recorded should, for example, be made aware of the start-up of the body cam before recording begins.

What Needs To Change For Body Cams To Play A Greater Role In Occupational Safety And Health?

Body cams must be given greater importance in occupational health and safety, as they are an effective means of protecting employees. It is therefore urgent that they be included as a measure in accident prevention regulations. In addition, more discussions need to take place with data protection authorities in order to jointly change the view of body cams for the more positive. There are already numerous examples of body cameras being used in a privacy-compliant manner, and many security officers and their employers report a significant decrease in attacks since they started wearing the body cam. Every security guard should be able to draw on these positive experiences to prevent even more confrontational accidents in the future.

About The Person:

Dr. Harald Olschok-Tautenhahn was Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Association of the Security Industry (BDSW) and the Federal Association of German Money and Value Services (BDGW) from December 1992 to March 2022. Since 2018, he has also been an executive member of the BDSW’s executive committee. After his retirement, he has been working as a freelancer for HOT-Consulting – hot-consulting.de – since April 1st, 2022. In the summer of 2022, he gave a presentation on “Body cam as a central element of occupational health and safety” at NetCo’s first Body Cam Conference in Cologne.

Der Beitrag Guest Article By Dr. Harald Olschok-Tautenhahn: Body Cams As A Central Element Of Occupational Health And Safety erschien zuerst auf NetCo Professional Services GmbH.

Florian Franz – NetCo Professional Services GmbH

ECJ ruling on Body-Cams: What the ruling means for GDPR-compliant use

The most important things in brief

Inhaltsverzeichnis

Initial situation: 355,000 euro fine in Stockholm

The core statements of the ECJ ruling

Article 13 GDPR is applicable – not Article 14

The information must be provided immediately

Practical implementation: The layered information model

Level 1: On-site note

Level 2: Complete Data Protection Information

GDPR-compliant Body-Cam deployment: How to implement it successfully

Checklist for GDPR-compliant use

De-escalation instead of mere documentation

Proven in practice

Sharing knowledge: The Body Cam Conference

Transparency and protection belong together.

Legal Foundations

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Case Study: Stölting Trainservice – LTE Body Cam

Flexibility where it's needed

Experience report: Stölting Trainservice GmbH

Why a body cam with LTE instead of SmartHub?

Where is the deployment recommended?

Outlook for the future

Looking back, would you make the same decision again?

How do you see the future demand for LTE bodycams in your industry?

NetCo Body-Cam Pro: Focus on de-escalation and data protection

Conclusion

Book a free consultation now

Bochum Municipality

Bochum Municipality

Organization

Body-Cam Application

Start:

Main Objective:

Application:

Feedback:

Further References

Preventing violence: Body-Cams reduce tensions at the airport

Added to this:

More protection needed for employees at Airports

Why should Body-Cams be used at airports?

New Year’s Eve: When helpers themselves become victims – more protection through body cams demanded

How can emergency and rescue forces protect themselves from violent attacks?

What other positive effects do body cams have?

Body cams: The non-violent method for de-escalating conflict-laden situations

What Is The Advantage Of A Body Cam With Front Display?

3 De-escalation Levels: This Is How The Body Cam Helps

1. Showing Presence With The Body Cam

2. Indication Of Upcoming Recording - Activation Of The Mirror Function

3. Start The Body Cam Recording

The Functions Of The Large Front Display At A Glance:

Why Security Forces Should Only Use Professional Body Cams

What Is The Legal Situation Regarding The Use Of Body Cams?

What Distinguishes A Professional Body Cam?

What Are "Consumer Body Cams" Good For?

Conclusion

Body Cam With Front Display In Use At The Bonn City Police – Interview With Sascha Hessenbruch

Mr. Hessenbruch, you are in charge of the "Body Cam" project for the Bonn city police. How long have you been using the cameras?

Why did you decide to use body cams?

How does the front display in particular help your emergency response teams?

That means that body cam recording only occurs on rare occasions for you?

How is the body cam received by your emergency forces?

How do the people of Bonn react to the body cams and the front display?

Many have data protection concerns. Was that the case for you before you acquired the body cams?

About The Person:

Multifunctional In Use: Live Streaming With The Body Cam

How does The Body Cam Live Stream Work?

Lone worker - Live Remote Support

Increased Security And Fast Communication Through Live Images At Major Events

Live Streaming Enables Real-Time Feedback During A Training Session

Summary: The Advantages Of Body Cam Live Streaming

Guest Article By Dr. Harald Olschok-Tautenhahn: Body Cams As A Central Element Of Occupational Health And Safety

The Security Industry Is Growing

What Does The Accident Prevention Regulation For Guard And Security Services Contain?

Confrontations As A Frequent Cause Of Occupational Accidents

The VBG Premium Procedure

What Does The DSK Guidance For Data Protection Supervisory Authorities Say About The Use Of Body Cams By Private Security Companies?

What Needs To Change For Body Cams To Play A Greater Role In Occupational Safety And Health?