Background Back to contents 25 “CCTVs are typically justified by claims that they will monitor, detect, and prevent theft and fraud, and maintain public order. They create the impression of being watched, either by powerful entities who could be the owner of a private establishment, security personnel, or more commonly, the state. While this narrative has inspired heavy investment into the installation of CCTV systems, the enthusiasm around CCTVs is rooted more in their perceived potential than actual impact.”