ⒾMachine translations by Deepl
New campaign encourages privacy-friendly use of smart doorbells
Across the Netherlands, the number of "smart" doorbells and security cameras is rapidly increasing. But many residents are unaware that their cameras can also film their neighbours' garden, front door or yard - unintentionally violating the privacy of others. To address this in a positive way, the Consortium Smart Doorbells is launching the 'Privacyproof Doorbell' campaign. This campaign encourages local residents to work together to set up their smart doorbells and cameras properly. In doing so, the campaign encourages conscious camera use and privacy-friendly neighbourhoods.
Setting up cameras together properly
The campaign calls on residents to work with their neighbours to check their doorbell camera settings and set them in a privacy-friendly way. Those who do so will receive a special 'Privacyproof Doorbell' sticker. This allows residents to show the neighbourhood that they use their camera consciously and are mindful of the privacy of others. "A smart doorbell can contribute to feeling safe, but it should never be at the expense of your neighbours' privacy.", said Thijs Turèl (AMS Institute), initiator of the action. "By starting the conversation and checking the institutions together, we make the neighbourhood safer as well as friendlier."
Positive behavioural change in the neighbourhood
The action follows concerns from the Personal Data Authority (AP), which recently reported that the number of complaints about doorbell cameras is skyrocketing. In 2024, the AP already received 370 complaints and 702 notifications, and in 2025, more than 300 complaints have now been received. Many of these are about cameras (unintentionally) filming other people's yards or public spaces.
With this campaign, the consortium aims to contribute to:
- more awareness On what is and is not allowed under privacy legislation (AVG);
- more mutual trust between neighbours;
- a positive standard around the use of smart cameras in residential areas.
Flyer + sticker: from conversation to action
Residents of participating municipalities will receive a short flyer with explanations and a roadmap to set their doorbell properly. After talking to their neighbours and adjusting the settings, they can receive a 'Privacyproof Doorbell' sticker collect or request. The sticker shows: "We are mindful of your privacy."
The campaign runs initially in the municipalities of Amsterdam and The Hague. Materials are available via https://slimmedeurbelcheck.nl.
The Consortium Smart Doorbells is committed to responsible use of this technology and consists of the Responsible Sensing Lab, AMS Institute, TU Delft, Privacy First and the municipalities of Amsterdam, The Hague, Breda and Groningen. More information on the Smart Doorbell Consortium can be found at HERE.
