Walmart.com Now Selling “Spy Pens” & Hidden Cameras

Walmart Offering 3 Different “Spy Pens” For Under $100

So the other day I searching online for a nice spy pen, one that exudes a professional appearance as well as being highly reliability. There are many spy pens, pen dvr’s, or what have you. Many are just junk, and a lot of the pen cameras of the past have had serious reliability issues.

There is a pen I’ve been researching for a while, and it’s definitely captured my attention (no pun intended). The hidden pen camera is called the DOD-PH720HD, like the name states, it has the ability to capture video at 720p in HD quality. This pen also advertises it can snap still photos at 12 mega pixel resolution (if you can actually believe that). I have it on my wishlist on Amazon.com, and I was going to purchase it this week until I randomly stumbled upon these three “spy pens” on Walmart.com.

Yes, you heard right. Walmart.com (of all places). Spy equipment is one of this last items one would picture Walmart stocking. It looks like the pens are available only online, and not in the brick & mortar stores. So why would Walmart stock a spy pen anyway?

Here’s my take on it. 1: Spy pens can be used for seminars, recording notes in a car while traveling. 2: It can come in handy for a cheating hubby / wifey’s significant other to place this sucker right on a desk or public common area without suspicion. 3: Flat out…the device is just plain cool to have!

I’m interested in hearing from anyone who currently has one of these devices or has used one in the past. I’d be interested in how the video / audio quality differs from unit to unit.

Walmart Spy Pen Camera #1:
SVAT PI101 Covert Pen DVR with Built-in Color Camera and 8GB Flash Drive

The SVAT PI101 Covert Pen DVR with Built-in Color Camera and 8GB Flash Drive allows you to record your surroundings discreetly and transfer them to a PC or Mac via an 8GB USB flash drive. Includes covert pen DVR, three ink refills, USB cable, user’s manual, USB power adapter and informational booklet.

Technical Specs:

• Video camera and DVR in a discreet, functioning ballpoint pen
• Looks and writes with a normal pen
• Pen unscrews to reveal a USB drive that can connect to a PC or Mac
• Stores up to 7 hours of high resolution video at a time
• Built-in lithium polymer battery can be charged via USB port
• Includes covert pen DVR, 3 ink refills, USB cable, user’s manual, USB power adapter and informational booklet

Walmart Spy Pen Camera #2:
Swann DVR-421 PenCam Mini Video Camera & Recorder Executive-quality Black Ballpoint Pen w/ 2GB Flash Drive

The Swann PenCam DVR Mini Video Camera & Recorder is living proof the pen is mightier than the sword! The stylish-looking casing with metallic gold trim and pocket clip holds an executive-quality black ballpoint pen with hidden talents, as it contains a pinhole video camera so small you almost can’t see that it’s there. Use the PenCam to shoot AVI video files at 640 x 480 pixel resolution or JPEG still images at 1280 x 1024 photo resolution, all at the push of a button.Make your own videos or photos and store them on the built-in 2GB flash drive.

• Real ballpoint pen
• DVR
• Camera
• Easy uploads to YouTube
• Long-lasting battery
• 90-minute charging time

PenCam’s intelligent design includes 2GB of built-in internal memory that can store over an hour of video footage. Viewing or copying recorded files is easy, just unscrew the top of the pen to reveal a USB plug that can connect straight into your computer’s USB port. No special cables, no adapters, no drivers, no worries! Transferring files is easy as the PenCam can be used as an everyday USB thumb drive, able to store a myriad of file formats without fuss.

Walmart Spy Pen Camera #3:
Digital Peripheral Solutions Q-See4GB Covert-Ops 4GB Surveillance Pen

Product Model Number: QD113P

 Overview:  This versatile tool is built around an ultra-mini camera which combines 1.3-megapixel still photography and high-resolution real-time video with audio in a compact, discrete package. Store nearly 4,000 pictures or 2 hours of video on the internet with 4GB memory. View or save your files on any PC with a USB port. The ease of use, small size and elegant design make this a valuable tool for security personnel, business people, students, tourists and others.

Features:
Easy to Use – Playback files on Computer – Recorder Hidden in Working Ink Pen – Records Video
Takes Photos – Records Audio – Use as Webcam or Photos for Email

UPDATE: It appears Amazon.com is offering all 3 of these pen cameras “in stock” and at a lower price than Walmart. -OCPI Blog.

About the Author:

Ryan Garrahy is a state licensed private investigator specializing civil, criminal & workers comp insurance investigations. He is the owner & principal investigator for Orange Investigations.

“PI Camstick 3″ Review: Dependable Little Cam, But It’s Ugly!

PI Camstick 3 proves to be an extremely reliable undercover camera, solid to the touch and yes...it's ugly!

The Author’s 2 Cents

Before I talk about this Private Investigator’s best friend, I’d like to apologize that I didn’t get a chance to review this device earlier in my blog. If you read my blog a few months ago I placed a post reviewing the PI Camstick 2, a similar handheld spy cam device that’s about the size and shape of a 25 cent pack of Doublemint gum. The PI Camstick 2 didn’t fan out that well, I noticed reliability issues and recording issues (too bad really, because the slimline shape was really nice in super undercover situations). So, with that said, let me dive right into the review of it’s successor, the PI Camstick 3.

Overall Design and Build

The design of the PI Camstick 3, also known as the MD80 is quite a departure from the tried and true USB flashdrive style look of the first Camsticks. I’m not too sure what the engineers were thinking but they sure made an impact when the device released to the PI and spy shop community. As you see in the picture I posted above, the device has a much more solid feel to it, doesn’t feel fragile in the least bit. Where the lens is situated, there is a curvature that protrudes outward, pretty much giving away this device as an undercover you-know-what. As far as the device’s integrity, it really feels like a little piece of cold steel in your palm. The device has great integrity and can really take a beating. Even though it’s not the prettiest device on the market, it can sure get the job done.

VIDEO: The 3rd Generation PI Camstick in the wild

1. Recording ON/OFF (pressing straight down to record and pressing again to stop)

The record button has the best placement I’ve ever seen in a mini handheld undercover camera. It’s right on the very top, protrudes slightly and is rounded off at the top. Once you press this little guy you’ll really feel the quality in the button design. How can I describe it..ok it has a real similar feel to the standby button that sits atop the iPhone. It doesn’t make a clicking sound, but just has that inherent feel of quality when you press it.

2. Power ON/OFF (located on the side of the unit towards the head)

The power button is conveniently located on the side of the device, and I’ve found that this is a really nice area for discreet powering on and off. Talking about being discreet, the last thing a PI wants to do is draw attention to the device. With that said, in terms of training with tiny spy cameras remember this one line “practice makes perfect“. Because the power button and VOX button are on opposite sides of the camera lens, it can often get confusing which one is which. QUICK TIP: Can’t remember which one’s the power button? Just aim the device toward you, place your thumb over the lens, then slide your thumb slightly to the left…boom there’s the power button. This really works well in a tactical situation where time and discreetness is of the essence. Works great single handed or while the device is in your pocket.

3. VOX (Voice Activated Recording)

Neat feature to say the least, and it REALLY work well. When this function is turned ON (with power button turned ON as well) it will only record when sound is heard above a certain decibel level. That means this device is great for discreet placement in a bookshelf, near a computer, or even hidden in an indoor plant. The MD80 will activate when the conversation starts and will go into standby mode when the conversation stops.

4. MicroSD

The PI Camstick 3 stores it’s video data onto a removable MicroSD card. This is the same type of card your cell phone uses to store pictures and video. The MicroSD card takes some finessing to seat in place, but you’ll hear a tiny click once it seats properly. Video can be viewed on a laptop or desktop computer via these two options: Remove the MicroSD and insert into a computer via the SD card adapter provided with the unit OR insert the provided USB cable and connect to a computer to view and download the footage.

Video Quality & Lux Rating

The video quality on this PI Camstick comes in at 30 FPS and 640 x 480 lines of resolution. A lot of spy cameras tend to have 20+ frames per second which tend to give it that choppy look, making it difficult to pause video and capture still images. So 30 frames per second is nice and the resolution is perfect for viewing on a computer screen or viewing on a DVD player.

This undercover camera also offers a Color CMOS 1 Lux camera sensor. Now a 1.0 Lux rating is ample for most common video capturing uses. I used this unit inside the bar area of an El Torito in the evening and it did just fine. If you have a really low lighting situation that needs undercover video, I’d go with a 0.05 lux rating or lower. There are actually cameras called “starlight cams” that can shoot in almost complete darkness without the use of IR. Here’s a link if you’d like to read more about “Starlight Cameras“.

Lux ratings make a big difference, factor this in when dealing with low-light situations

Reliable Undercover Camera; Really Gets The Job Done

I’ve shot hours of video with the PI Camstick 3 and I must say that after about 1 1/2 years of owning this camera, I love it! I don’t think there has been one instance that this camera didn’t record when it was supposed to. Even though it does have the cold military look and can be quite ugly, this little bulldog can really knock out video when you need it to. From bar footage to Disneyland walking-around footage, this camera pulls through. Reliability has and will always be a very important factor to me, as well as many other PIs. Think of it this way, if a camera doesn’t work when it needs to, what good is it anyway? I give this little undercover camera 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Here’s The Specs:

Thumb size alloy housing
Time/Date Stamping
Web cam capability
Supports AVI video format
Color CMOS 1.0 Lux
High speed recording and quick light response
30 FPS and 640 x 480 Resolution
Built in Li-on rechargeable battery last up to 2 hours
Supports up to 16GB Micro SD Card (30 minutes per 1 GB of recording time)
LED indicator
Easy installation with a bracket or clip
Bracket allows for 360 degree pan and 150 degree tilt
JPEG picture format
80 degree FOV
USB 1.1/2.0
Weight: 1.76oz
Size: 2.1″ x .8″ x .7″

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Ryan Garrahy is a state licensed private investigator specializing in surveillance, background checks, locating individuals and workplace investigations. He is the owner & principal investigator for Orange Investigations.

BlackBerry Voice Encryption; Not “Just” For President Anymore

 

President Obama takes a moment to relax and view a message on his BlackBerry Smartphone. Courtesy CNET News.

Government Grade Encryption Now Available To Private Sector

Ah, being President looks pretty relaxing doesn’t it. You’ve got a nice cozy tour bus to cruise around in, a couple of guys to chat it up with everywhere you go, and you get a really cool encrypted phone. I’m not talking about one of those big bulky President Jimmy Carter phones with the rotary dial…I’m talking about a slick BlackBerry Smartphone with government level encryption.

Well Gumshoe, you might not have to be Mr. Big after all to get your hands on one of these BlackBerry encrypted phones. Actually, judging by a recent article on Crackberry forums there’s a company called Cellcrypt (creepy name, awesome software) which allows you to use your own BlackBerry device, while they provide the software capable of government-grade encryption of voice calls over standard cell phones such as the Nokia Symbian and BlackBerry Smartphone. “Cellcrypt’s easy-to-use software application offers unparalleled voice quality and performance over cellular, Wi-Fi and satellite networks that is as easy to use as making a normal phone call”.

 

This proprietary software allows GSM encryption on both ends of the conversation. Courtesy Cellcrypt.com

 

Enterprise Service Needed To Make Encrypted Phone Calls Over GSM Cellular Networks

So far, it looks like this company only offers the software on BlackBerrys’ that are connected to the GSM network (T-Mobile & AT&T). So for those Private Investigators and corporate execs who have Verizon and Sprint, this may be a good time to make an excuse to get new BlackBerry Torch from AT&T to justify the switch! It looks like an Enterprise account will be needed in order to make the secure connection. If you’re on T-Mobile’s network, the upgrade to their BlackBerry Enterprise account will only cost you one Honest Abe extra a month compared to the normal $30.00 standard BlackBerry server fee. So for $35 bucks a month, it ain’t a bad deal.

So far, Cellcrypt’s website has remained silent on their pricing. Judging by their website, the only inkling of pricing they mention is link to an email address  partner@cellcrypt.com which connects you with their “Global Partners” department. I have yet to email them, so feel free to take the first step in finding out if this is worth the expense to have the luxury of secure voice conversations!

Interesting Read: GSM Cracking – Facts & Advice

News Release Oct. 6, 2010: AT&T Launches Encrypted Mobile Voice Service

Cellular Phone Hacking, Bluetooth Security Issues and Pre-Paid Phone Alternatives

You’ve seen it in movies like Eagle Eye and Proof of Life. A memorable line from Ex-British SAS operative Russell Crowe to Meg Ryan “Pack your bags, get to the airport, don’t talk to anyone until you get to Dallas; then call me on the encrypted phone.”

Conversations can be compromised, we all know this, especially with era of Bluetooth & iPhone hacking software available with just a quick Google search on the internet. If a client is  hiring a Private Investigator to work a stalking and harassment case, the aggressor could very well have placed hacking software on the phone; now having access to overhearing conversations.

As a Private Investigator here in Orange County California, I’ve recommended that anyone who feels their privacy has been compromised, and wants to have a confidential conversation with a Private Investigator working on their case, they should go out and purchase a pre-paid cellphone. For under $100.00 (some less than $50), you can have peace of mind while receiving text messages and phone calls, as well as having an unlisted phone number. If both parties should feel compromised, then two pre-paid phones would be needed to carry out the conversation.

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Ryan Garrahy is a state licensed private investigator specializing in surveillance, background checks, locating individuals and workplace investigations. He is the owner & principal investigator for Orange Investigations.

Unlawful Use Of GPS Tracker Could Land You In Jail

These tiny GPS trackers are motion activated, preserving battery life for weeks

UPDATE 01/23/2012:  U.S. Supreme Court ruling: ‘Attaching a GPS device to a vehicle then using device to monitor the vehicle’s movements constitutes a search under Fourth Amendment’ – United States v. Jones

Just this morning I read an article in the OC Register about a Costa Mesa cop being charged with hiding a GPS device in a woman’s car without her knowledge so he could follow her. The article didn’t spill many details about the stalking case except that the cop had a prior relationship with the woman and allegedly used the device to randomly show up at locations she traveled to, attempting to “rekindle their relationship”.

This sounds a little far fetched to try and win back an ex-lover, especially when you carry a badge and a gun. If you’re interested in reading the articles, the OC Register story is here and the official District Attorney press release is here.

As a private investigator in Orange County, I’ve had clients ask about GPS tracking devices and how they can be used to keep tabs on a significant other.  The first question is never what the device can do or how often it pings the satellites for updates; they ask if it’s legal. Smart, right? Absolutely! They also ask if someone will be able to find the device and if it can be traced back to them. My response: I tell them the inside scoop and then give them a quick print out of the information you see below.

Here’s what the California Penal Code has to say about the use of an Electronic Tracking Device

California Tracking Device Law: California Penal Code section 637.7 states: (a) No person or entity in this state shall use an electronic tracking device to determine the location or movement of a person. (b) This section shall not apply when the registered owner, lesser, or lessee of a vehicle has consented to the use of the electronic tracking device with respect to that vehicle. (c) This section shall not apply to the lawful use of an electronic tracking device by a law enforcement agency. (d) As used in this section, “electronic tracking device” means any device attached to a vehicle or other movable thing that reveals its location or movement by transmission of electronic signals. (e) A violation of this section is a misdemeanor.

By the way, Section 637.7 refers to all electronic tracking devices, and does not differentiate between those that rely on GPS technology or not. As the laws catch up with the times, it is plausible that all 50 states will eventually enact laws similar to those of California. It also allows a maximum of six months in jail if convicted. That sure seems like a lot of time in jail for keeping an eye on someone. Here’s a “Hotsheet” on law enforcement’s rules and regulations for using GPS trackers, written by Deputy DA James Hosking.

Tracking devices are great, don’t get me wrong, the technology is truly amazing. There is nothing more enjoyable than helping out a client in need, but not without letting them know the law and the ramifications of illegal use. Additionally, hiring a private investigator who is properly licensed and knowledgeable with state laws should be able to steer you in the right direction on choosing the device that’s right for your particular situation. Knowing when and where these devices can be used is key to keeping yourself out of unnecessary trouble.

Exclusive Video: GPS Tracking Devices

Stalkers use GPS devices to track victims

Man charged with placing tracking device on ex-girlfriend’s computer

Alleged stalking victim found tracking device under car

Police continue to use GPS to track suspects despite murky law

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Ryan Garrahy is a state licensed private investigator specializing in surveillance, background checks, worker’s compensation claims investigations, locating individuals and workplace investigations.

Orange Investigations | Office: (714) 248-5050 | Web: http://www.orangeinvestigations.com

PI Equipment Review: “PI Camstick 2″ Undercover Camera

Undercover Camera That Records Onto MicroSD Card

I was really impressed the first time I laid eyes on this nifty little undercover camera that private investigators use. As a private investigator in Orange County, California I knew this device would come in handy on some of my undercover cases. Maybe a cheating spouse case in Newport Beach, or a suspicious worker’s compensation insurance claim in Anaheim. I had heard some talk on the PI group boards in California, from other private detectives in Orange County, and YouTube even had someone from Taiwan post a video clip with the little camera in action. I had never actually had a chance to use it in the field on a real case and wanted to know the capabilities of this device.  One of the first pictures I saw of the second generation “PI Camstick” was near one of those small 5 packs of Doublemint® gum. I thought to myself, “what an excellent design for an undercover camera, perfect for covert video”. So I finally decided to buy one for my company.

Cost: I paid $150.00 for the PI Camstick, purchased brand new from a spy store.

Design: The camera is slim, with a square shaped design in a glossy black color. Easy to reach recording button, recording lights on the front body of the device, flat clip on the rear, usb connection on the bottom, came in a very contemporary looking black box with a picture of the PI Camstick on the exterior of the box.

What it comes with: The camera come with 1) MicroSD card and SD converter adapter 2) USB charging/file loading cable 3) Instructions for operation.

How it records: The device records and saves its video files to the MicroSD card in an Apple Quicktime Movie format. There is one main button on the face of the device that starts and stops all recordings. This device can record both audio and video. There is NO time/date stamp feature available on this device. The MicroSD card can be easily removed from the device and placed into the SD slot of any laptop or desktop computer, files can be uploaded into Quicktime almost instantaneously.

Practical Uses: This device can really be used almost anywhere. I have found this undercover camera to be primarily useful in the following situations:

1) Clipped on the exterior of a jacket pocket for deep undercover use.

2) Placed near a laptop computer due to the fact it looks like a computer peripheral, video can be obtained of individuals sitting around a table or in an office environment.

3) Placed in the spine of a book for “motion-activated” video capturing, the battery can last for quite a while in this type of situation.

4) Hand-held in one’s palm this device can be very useful for capturing a claimant bending, lifting and shopping while out on a worker’s compensation claim.

Problems With The Device:

This device has a great design but lacks confidence when recording video and needs a more simple system for recording video. This undercover camera has a tendency to not record video when video is supposed to be recording. This device also has “delicate” system of pressing the record button and “holding down” for a few seconds to start and stop recording. I felt the system was flawed and needed to be changed to just a single press of the button to start and stop recording, without holding down for a certain period of time. I ultimately sold my PI Camstick due to the lack of confidence in the device’s recording ability. I have since purchased the newest version of the undercover camera, the PI Camstick 3, which retails for about $200.00 brand new.

COMING SOON: I’ll review of my newest purchase, the PI Camstick 3. This next generation Camstick has some really good upgrades, so look forward to the review.

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About the Author:

Ryan Garrahy is a state licensed private investigator specializing in surveillance, background checks, locating individuals and workplace investigations. He is the owner & principal investigator for Orange Investigations.