Cameras are no longer just for photographers, hobbyists, and capturing family moments. Because of improvements to camera technology, they are consistently introduced to new uses. Today, security cameras are finding an increased role in commercial buildings and are finding their way into neighborhoods.

Cameras are now a common sight in both public and private places. Watchful lenses are seen in stores, on streets, and even outside of many homes. In fact, smart cams are smaller, cheaper, and easier to install than ever. Industry analysts say that the video surveillance market will be worth over $68 billion by 2023. Tech companies have figured out that Americans want access to surveillance capability, and they’ve met this demand with high-quality and affordable camera systems.

However, a high demand does not mean that the increase in cameras has been accepted quietly. In fact, it has been the source of much debate, forcing many to wonder about the implications that wide-spread security surveillance has. At what point is personal privacy sacrificed because of surveillance? Regardless, it is impossible to deny the effect that security cameras have had on the criminal justice system, proving as an invaluable tool in police work as investigations across the country turn to them for help in identifying key witnesses.

So, why trust in cameras? It’s simple: the human memory is not as strong as one would need to build a solid case. Neuroscientists have shown that we form memories by reconstructing the event—and this process is not always accurate. A camera, on the other hand, allows officials to have an objective source from which they can accurately review controversial events.

The best part is that authorities are no longer limited to catching criminals in the act. Authorities can use cameras from multiple locations to piece together the sequence of an event. Information provided from cameras help ensure that a person is not accused of a crime that they did not commit and help keep dangerous criminals off the street by revealing what they do when they believe no one is watching. Technology is, and it will continue to do so.