The Government of India has introduced new rules for all internet-connected CCTV cameras sold in the country, a move aimed at enhancing cybersecurity and protecting national security. Effective since April 2025, these regulations make it mandatory for manufacturers and importers to undergo a rigorous security testing and certification process, known as Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification (STQC). This is a significant change, as it applies to all devices, not just those used by government agencies. It also means that a simple declaration of compliance is no longer enough; physical products must be submitted for scrutiny.
Before you buy a CCTV camera, especially with these new regulations in place, you should carefully consider what to buy and what to avoid.
What to Buy:
STQC-Certified Products: This is the most crucial factor. Only buy cameras that have the STQC certification mark, which confirms the device has passed rigorous government-mandated security and quality tests. You can verify this by asking the vendor for the STQC certificate number and checking it on the official STQC website. Notably, brands like Sparsh, PRAMA, CP PLUS, and Matrix Comsec have received certifications for a range of their cameras.
High-Resolution Cameras: Opt for cameras with a minimum resolution of 3mp or higher. High resolution is essential for capturing clear details, such as faces or license plates, which can be critical for identification.
Cameras with Good Night Vision: Look for cameras that use infrared (IR) LEDs to provide clear, black-and-white footage in low-light or total darkness. Ensure the camera has a night vision range that is sufficient for the area you want to monitor.
Weatherproof Cameras: If you are buying an outdoor camera, make sure it has a suitable IP rating (e.g., IP66 or higher). This indicates its resistance to dust and water, ensuring it can withstand various weather conditions.
Cameras with Secure Storage: Choose devices that offer secure storage, either through local encrypted storage (like an SD card or NVR/DVR) or secure cloud storage with end-to-end encryption to protect your footage from unauthorized access.
What to Avoid:
Uncertified Cameras: Do not buy any internet-connected CCTV camera that does not have the STQC certification. These products are not compliant with Indian regulations and may pose significant security risks.
Low-Resolution Cameras: Avoid buying cameras with low resolution, as the image quality will likely be poor and of little use for security purposes.
Unbranded, Cheap Models: Be wary of unbranded or suspiciously low-priced cameras. They may lack essential security features and robust software support, and they are less likely to have passed the new STQC security tests.
Cameras with Hardcoded Credentials: Avoid devices that use hardcoded usernames and passwords. These are major security vulnerabilities that can make your system easy to hack. The new STQC rules are specifically designed to eliminate this type of weakness.
These rules are not just about product quality; they are also a strategic move to address data privacy and geopolitical concerns. The requirement for companies to submit their source code is a powerful measure to prevent backdoors and vulnerabilities. This new policy is likely to reshape the Indian surveillance market, potentially leading to supply chain disruptions and an increase in product prices as manufacturers adapt to the new compliance costs. Ultimately, the new rules are designed to create a more secure ecosystem for consumers and a more resilient market for the nation.
