Even phony cameras with signs do the job of deterrence...Yes to all of this

AbsolutelyNOT! But some will feel better.

IT only keeps the honest from falling to temptation.

Hoodies and now masks have been successful in defeating most camera systems.

Good lighting, preferably equipped with motion detectors and knowing how to turn the actuator on the dead bolt is the security answer.

The poster child of opulent monotony, nearly all middle and upper communities here are behind walls controlled by gates and some have a guard, but the outside world still finds it way over those walls.

But I do understand the false security many embrace as the justification for invading the space of others.

Alot of people around me have cameras on their homes. I've seen many videos of people breaking into their cars. I suppose it's how smart (or stupid) the person breaking the law is.

It can be a deterrent, but good lighting is probably the best deterrent. 

Real or fake cameras and security sign help to deter but not prevent.  Criminals can get into any bank, museum, art gallery or out of any max-security prison.

At least a real camera might capture their photo & hopefully lead to their arrest.

Good luck.

I believe knowing cameras are watching does deter people.  It also helps identify the perpetrators.  I, personally, have no problem with cameras watching me when I'm out in public. 

Both of your questions are perfect answers. It will scare those with evil intentions while making owners and prospective buyers feel safer.

Bill Polack I think it would help deter crime.

I think it's a great idea but who is going to monitor them? I agree that a 'your being surveiled' sign is not a bad thought at all.

That stuff is as common as a doorbell.

Bill,

It is a deterrent...gates can always be outsmarted also.  A

I suspect it will deter intruders and if there are issues there may be a way to identify them. I imagine some people feel safer. Wonder how people feel about the costs

I think you answered your question. It is a deterrence for sure. Many of our neighborhood are installing cameras aimed at our local community mailboxes, and it has caught some of the thieves. I am certain with the publicized news; it has deterred many others.

Both... At least there are ways to track who have passed. If it is a big HOA it will be cosmetic not serving any purpose.... 

I hope it scares them.

it could do both, but the smart thieves will get around them

Might make some folks feel safer.  Not convinced it will deter crime.

Criminals will just paint, dodge, or steal the cameras. Thye might deter a small % of would be criminals.

If it works then it's a good decision.

If my HOA wanted to do this, I would approve, and could deter crime.

I'm with Ken Jones on this one - however, I do think having the cameras - as long as they are working and actually recording - are a good thing

They seem not to be a problem for anyone not doing anything wrong. They have become part of a norm of todays society and on a public street, dont bother me

It depends on the particular person.

We have 2 really nice neighborhoods in Seattle where the city police have installed cameras and it has reduced crime extensively.

They might catch some resident teenagers making out.  

There is a guy in my neighborhood who installed a camera, and he replays the attempted car break-ins whenever anyone walks down the alley, even if they go noplace near the cars.

Whatever it takes to deter crime I say

  Armed guards would be more effective. 

It will give a measure of security to the residents in the neighborhood. Crooks know how to avoid cameras so doubt that it will scare them off but it could make it too much trouble and get them to move on.

I'm with Carol Williams "I believe knowing cameras are watching does deter people.  It also helps identify the perpetrators!"

I don't think the cameras will deter the bad guys - it will just make them more creative, if they want to get into the community, which is fairly easy to do to being with, as you mentioned it is not gated.  Today people wear disguises, so not seeing a face would be important.  On the other hand, I think people would feel safer with cameras, but cannot say that they truly would be safer Bill Polack.  Hopefully, your HOA will do current research on the cameras before purchasing, and having as assessment for the residents.  Good Luck, however this situation plays out!

Both.