Frequently Asked Questions

Hardware and Software
What types of cameras do you use?

Bandit Systems primarily installs Axis Communication cameras because the company’s detection technology integrates tightly with Axis capabilities. We also deploy other top-tier brands such as Hanwha and Avigilon when appropriate. When needed, we can also work with other ONFIV-compliant camera systems. 

Will I be ‘locked’ in to Bandit System’s ecosystem?

No. Bandit Systems doesn’t use proprietary or ‘locked’ hardware in our systems. Bandit Systems is an advocate of using the best hardware and software to solve problems, so all the systems we install are hardware agnostic, expandable, and future-proof making them flexible now and into the future.

Can you use our existing cameras?

Often, yes. Bandit Systems’ services and technology can integrate with most ONVIF-compliant camera systems. ONVIF is a security hardware communication standard that enables interoperability between commercial security devices. Many consumer-grade cameras (think big box stores) are proprietary and not ONVIF compliant. Bandit Systems’ engineering team can evaluate your current system and determine compatibility.

Will I have access to the video, can I see the security cameras?

Yes. Cameras record 24/7 either continuously or based on motion depending on our clients requested configuration. Clients can view live video, review recorded footage, and download video to their computer. Clients often use their systems for internal operations such as liability protection, loss prevention, and auditing Bandit Systems’ responses to incidents.

What video management software do you use?

Bandit Systems only uses licensed software, we don’t use free, manufacturer provided software. Free software tends to be frustrating to use, has limited features, and produces a poor user experience. Bandit Systems can build systems that use common VMS’s such as Avigilon or Milestore Systems, but all our monitored camera systems are standardized on Exacqvision VMS.

What happens if something in the camera system breaks?

Bandit Systems continuously monitors hardware and software for issues. When a problem is detected, a support ticket is generated and processed within one business day. If the issue cannot be resolved remotely, a technician will be dispatched. Our Maintenance Contract and Lease cover all repair labor required to maintain the system, and the lease also covers all repair or replacement of all system hardware as needed.

Technology
Can your system record license plates?

Yes. License plates can be recorded day and night using specialized license plate recognition (LPR) cameras. Bandit Systems has developed proprietary software that enables property-specific license plate databases, allowing Bandit Systems to distinguish between permitted and unpermitted vehicles and follow-up accordingly.

Do you use facial recognition?

Bandit Systems does not typically deploy facial recognition technology unless specifically requested by the client. We can also apply dynamic privacy masking to faces or other sensitive areas to comply with client privacy policies.

Are the speakers loud? Will they disturb nearby neighbors?

We deploy speakers that match the specific needs of each property. Some speakers are designed to project messages over 300 feet, while others are intended for localized intervention near entrances or doors. Systems are carefully designed to minimize sound spillover onto neighboring properties.

How does Bandit ensure the system is working properly?

Bandit Systems’ cloud-based monitoring systems check the status of all hardware every minute to detect issues or signs of failure. Remote maintenance capabilities allow many problems to be resolved without a site visit in just a few hours.

RealTime™ Remote Guard Service
Will your system detect my employees? Will they be addressed by the PA?

Yes. The system detects anyone entering a protected facility. Depending on the security posture selected by the client, employees may only be engaged if their behavior appears unusual or if they arrive without prior notification or required access procedures.

How often do incidents involve law enforcement?

Approximately 98% of incidents are resolved by Bandit Systems’ deterrence specialists in under 60 seconds. Only about 1% of engagements result in law enforcement or mental health services responding.

How does Bandit determine who is permitted to be on site?

Bandit Systems uses a combination of behavioral analysis, operational knowledge, and client-defined protocols. Bandit Systems’ Deterrence Specialists understand normal site activity such as employees working late, delivery drivers, and cleaning crews. Deviations from normal behavior may trigger engagement. If authorization cannot be determined, Deterrence Specialists may politely engage the individual using the speaker system.

How will I know what’s happening on my property?

Clients receive a weekly report every Monday morning summarizing activity from the previous week. If an engagement escalates and requires immediate attention, we issue an incident report the same day. Clients also have full access to recorded video at any time.

My property is in a challenging area. Will your service still work?

Yes. Bandit Systems successfully operates in some of California’s most challenging environments and can provide references from clients in locations such as Oakland, San Leandro, Modesto, and Compton.

Administrative
How does Bandit Systems protect our privacy?

All images and video generated by the camera system belong to the client. Bandit Systems will not provide video or images to third parties unless directed by the client. In urgent circumstances involving public safety, where time-sensitive circumstances exist, Bandit Systems reserves the right to provide relevant footage directly to law enforcement for that incident.

What happens if the service doesn’t work as expected?

If we fail to deliver the expected service, the contract terms allow the company one opportunity to correct the issue. If the issue cannot be resolved to the client’s satisfaction, the client may terminate the agreement. We our confident in our service and our contract terms stand behind it.

Can I change my service hours after service begins?

Yes. The core service includes eight hours (typically 10 PM – 6 AM). Clients can add or remove additional hours as needed by contacting technical support. We also offer 24/7/365 coverage.

Can I create additional user accounts for my team to view video?

Yes. Account administrators can request additional credentials by submitting a support request to support@banditsystems.com and include the new users, name, email, and any restrictions to their access (limited to certain cameras or limit ability to download video). Most requests are completed within one business day.

Who is responsible for keeping cameras clean?

Clients are responsible for keeping cameras clear of vegetation, spider webs, and other obstructions. Bandit Systems will notify clients if cameras require cleaning and can provide cleaning services for a flat-rate fee if requested.

Can Bandit help me find video from an incident?

Yes. Bandit Systems’ team can assist clients in locating relevant footage and can also provide training on how to search video systems. For complex searches, Bandit Systems offers video search services for an hourly fee.

What size projects do you work on?

Bandit Systems provides service to commercial and industrial properties of all sizes. Many triple-net properties begin around 10,000 square feet, while some of the our deployments exceed 600 acres.

Do you provide residential security services?

Generally no, with a few exceptions. Bandit Systems’ technology and services are optimized for commercial properties. However, we occasionally provide service to select residences and second homes.

What locations do you service?

Bandit Systems services commercial and industrial properties throughout California, with primary hubs in the Bay Area, Los Angeles, and the Central Coast.

Should I purchase or lease the system?

About 90% of clients choose to lease. Leasing includes maintenance, software licenses, and hardware repair or replacement. Leased cameras receive scheduled upgrades every 48 months to ensure we have the latest technology is in the field.

How long does installation take?

A typical project timeline is four to six weeks from the initial consultation to a fully operational system. Rapid deployment systems can sometimes be operational within one week for smaller projects.

How does the RealTime Service compare to security guards or drive-by patrols?

Bandit Systems Remote Guard Service typically costs about the same as drive-by patrols while providing continuous monitoring. Compared to full-time on-site guards, the service generally costs about 30-70% less while providing faster response and broader coverage.