Axis Communications has released its Public Perception of Video Surveillance survey, highlighting a significant shift in public sentiment toward video surveillance. The survey found that 58% of U.S. respondents are more comfortable with video surveillance in both public and private spaces than they were five years ago, especially in transit hubs, retail centers, and educational campuses.
At the same time, that growing comfort comes with clear expectations for how video surveillance is used. More than half of respondents expressed a desire for greater transparency and stronger data privacy protections, underscoring the need for ethical stewardship of the technology.
“This research shows that while the public is becoming more comfortable with video surveillance, that acceptance cannot be taken for granted,” said Fredrik Nilsson, Vice President, Americas, Axis Communications. “The public sees a clear role for video surveillance in creating safer spaces, but they also expect organizations to use the technology responsibly. That means being transparent about its purpose and putting strong privacy protections and safeguards in place.”
When asked how their overall comfort level with video surveillance has changed over the past five years, 58% of survey respondents indicated that they are “significantly” (20%), “somewhat” (23%), or “slightly” (15%) more comfortable, while 31% are “neutral/not sure.”
Meanwhile, just 11% said they are less comfortable with video surveillance, suggesting that overall sentiment has shifted toward greater public comfort and acceptance rather than concern. Awareness of video surveillance is also high, with 70% of respondents indicating that they are “extremely” (34%) or “very” (36%) aware of video surveillance systems in public spaces.
The survey also found that only a small percentage of respondents consider video surveillance something to be avoided, with just 18% saying they have avoided a location due to surveillance concerns.
However, responses varied considerably by generation: while 32% of Gen Z respondents indicated they have chosen not to visit a place due to video surveillance, just 28% of Millennials, 12% of Gen X, and 6% of Baby Boomers say the same. These findings underscore the fact that as awareness of video surveillance continues to grow, comfort levels have also increased.
