The Latvian Data Protection Authority (DVI) has provided clarifications on the application of the GDPR to video surveillance conducted within a private home.

The authority recalls that the GDPR does not apply to data processing carried out in the context of exclusively personal or domestic activities, in accordance with Article 2, paragraph 2, point c of the regulation. The application of this exception to video surveillance in a private dwelling depends on a case-by-case analysis, considering the extent of the surveillance, the relationship between the filmed persons, and the destination of the recordings. Thus, surveillance limited to the private areas of a dwelling, filming cohabitants and whose recordings are not communicated to third parties, falls under this exception. The capture of images of visitors, such as service providers, does not exclude the application of the exception, provided that the purpose remains the security of the home and that the recordings are not disclosed, notably on social networks. Although hidden surveillance is not encouraged, visitors must expect the possible presence of cameras for security reasons.