Complaints and even disputes over doorbell cameras have risen significantly in the Netherlands. As of August 2025, the number of complaints has increased by 20%, totaling over 300 this year alone, according to the privacy watchdog. Approximately 1.6 million households in the Netherlands own a video doorbell.
- Privacy watchdog raises concerns about doorbell cameras.
- Complaints about cameras increased by 20% this year.
- Neighbors feel spied on by surveillance devices.
- Manufacturers urged to ensure privacy settings.
- Police benefit from footage for investigations.
- Illegal recordings often overlooked in court cases.
Monique Verdier, vice chair of the Dutch Data Protection Authority (AP), highlights both the benefits and drawbacks of smart doorbells. “People can feel safer with a doorbell camera, but it should minimally infringe on others’ privacy,” she states. Complaints often involve cameras capturing views of neighbors’ front doors or public roads, which violates privacy laws.
Residents report feeling monitored as neighbors track their comings and goings. Verdier notes, “Many neighbors face the same issue.” To address this, the AP urges manufacturers to set doorbell cameras to privacy-friendly defaults, ensuring they only capture the owner’s property.
Despite privacy concerns, police welcome doorbell cameras for their investigative value. Jasper van der Kemp, a criminologist, remarks, “The footage is a goldmine for detectives.” However, many recordings may be illegal under privacy laws, complicating their use in investigations. As the debate continues, it remains crucial for manufacturers and users to find a balance between safety and privacy.
