The Commissioner for Personal Data Protection, Maria Christofidou, reported the discovery of video surveillance cameras in the toilets of restaurants and other establishments in Cyprus.

According to her, a campaign to inspect public catering and entertainment establishments will begin next month following information about such violations. This concerns not only complaints from visitors. Christofidou stated that she has personally encountered cases of cameras being installed in toilets.

The Commissioner confirmed that violations were also found in some hotels. At the same time, she emphasized that the majority of businesses comply with the legislation and have provided the necessary data protection impact assessments.

The plan for the upcoming inspections has already been prepared. Christofidou partially attributed the delay in their start to a shortage of staff. The office was recently reinforced with new personnel.

The interview also discussed the installation of video surveillance cameras by municipalities. In particular, the Municipality of Paphos requested permission to use cameras in parks and other public places to combat vandalism.

Christofidou explained that the legislation allows municipalities to install video surveillance to prevent crime, but this cannot be done without control.

Before installation, an impact assessment must be submitted, indicating the location of the cameras, their operating hours, and information about previous incidents justifying the need for video surveillance.

According to the Commissioner, cameras installed without prior approval from her office are considered illegal. As an example, she cited Paphos, where the installation of cameras was approved after the relevant check. In Kato Polemidia, by contrast, permission for the cameras was not granted.

Restrictions also apply to private video surveillance systems. Property owners have the right to use cameras to protect their property, but the coverage area should not unnecessarily include neighbouring plots or public spaces.

Christofidou urged residents to photograph suspiciously installed cameras pointed at public places or neighbouring property and report them to the Personal Data Protection Office.

Source: cyprus-mail.com
https://cyprusbutterfly.com.cy/news/tualetax-restoranov-otelej-kipra-obnaruzhenyi