Should we use Digital IP cameras that record sound ?

In our view this is a strict NO-GO zone.

Most of the PoE IP and wireless cameras (which anyways offer 2-way intercom communication) have this ability in the same or slightly upgraded model costing no more than INR Rs. 500 than the one without this ability.

However, our opinion is that is very invasive on the individual's privacy. If two individuals are in a cameras field of view talking in a field of view of Camera, and that they are not physically damaging any property or indulging in vandalism, then  no one has any business of recording ( and potentially playing back or listening) on what they are talking AND without informing them that is being done.  It is their personal and highly private matter. Sound recording by Cameras is no different than telephone wire tapping which is prohibited and only allowed with authorized permits to law enforcement agencies. 

We have taken above into consideration and decided that:

(1) We will *NOT install Digital IP PoE cameras with any sound recording capability

(2) We will *NOT buy any equipment with sound recording facility and then disable the feature for use at a later stage by configuration. 

Even if we take opposite decision and put signages that what you are talking in cameras field of view is being recorded, its is extremely unnerving to tenants, visitors, workers, etc. 

- Suman Kumar Luthra @ APRC-P3 Telecom Sub-Committee