Nationwide, the number of "smart" doorbells and security cameras is rapidly increasing. But many residents are unaware that their cameras may also be filming their neighbor's 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 properly set up their smart doorbells and cameras. In doing so, the campaign encourages conscious camera use and privacy-friendly neighborhoods.
The campaign calls on residents to work with their neighbors to check their doorbell camera settings and set them privacy-friendly. Those who do so will receive a special "Privacyproof Doorbell" sticker. This allows residents to show the neighborhood that they are using their camera consciously and are mindful of the privacy of others. "A smart doorbell can contribute to feeling safe, but that should never come at the expense of your neighbors' privacy," said Thijs Turèl (AMS Institute), initiator of the action. "By starting the conversation and checking the settings together, we make the neighborhood safer and friendlier."
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 reports, and in 2025, more than 300 complaints have already 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:
- increased awareness of what is and is not allowed under privacy laws (AVG);
- more mutual trust between neighbors;
- A positive standard around the use of smart cameras in residential areas.
Residents of participating communities will receive a short flyer with an explanation and step-by-step plan to properly set up their doorbell. After talking to neighbors and adjusting settings, they can pick up or request a "Privacyproof Doorbell" sticker. The sticker shows, "We are mindful of your privacy."
The campaign runs initially in the municipalities of Amsterdam and The Hague. Materials are available at https://slimmedeurbelcheck.nl.
