Libraries use Chinese firm's CCTV despite concerns

Several libraries in Surrey are using CCTV cameras made by a Chinese firm whose equipment is banned from sensitive government sites over security concerns.

The cameras, made by Hikvision, are in libraries in Guildford, Ash, Chertsey, Cobham, Farnham, Merstham and New Haw, according to a Freedom of Information response to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The UK government stopped the installation of Chinese-made surveillance cameras at sensitive sites in Whitehall in 2022, citing security concerns.

A Hikvision spokesperson said its products met "strict security requirements" and complied with UK laws and regulations, while Surrey County Council said the cameras were deemed low risk.

Hikvision has faced criticism over allegations its technology has been used in the surveillance of Uyghur Muslims in China's Xinjiang region.

The company said it had "never knowingly or intentionally committed human rights abuses".

Although restrictions are in place for sensitive sites across the UK, they do not apply to local authorities.

A Surrey County Council (SCC) spokesperson said its library cameras operate as closed systems, meaning they are not connected to any corporate networks or the internet.

They said: "As a result, the primary risks normally associated with these devices – such as remote access or cyber vulnerabilities, do not apply in this case.

The council said the cameras were kept in secure staff-only areas and that any risk was considered "low" and the equipment was properly managed.

Sam Goodman, of the China Strategic Risks Institute, said councils should review their use of Hikvision equipment following concerns over national security and human rights.

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