MeitY Amends CRO for CCTV Cameras sold in India

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has recently announced updates to the Compulsory Registration Order (CRO) concerning CCTV cameras manufactured, imported, or sold in India.

You’ve likely encountered signs stating “You are under CCTV surveillance” in various locations. These closed-circuit television cameras, or CCTV cameras, function as vigilant eyes, capable of monitoring areas even from a distance.

CCTV cameras enable remote monitoring, allowing authorities and businesses to oversee multiple locations simultaneously. For instance, they play a crucial role in monitoring streets and parks, enhancing public safety and helping to identify individuals engaged in unethical activities.

In workplaces, CCTV cameras ensure employees are performing their duties correctly and deter misconduct, creating a safer environment and promoting operational efficiency.

However, the growing dependence on these cameras has raised concerns regarding their security and quality. To address these issues, the government has implemented mandatory STQC Certification for CCTV products.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this regulation. But first, let's clarify what Standardization Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) entails.

What Is STQC Certification?

Ensuring the safety and quality of IT products and services is essential in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. This is where the Standardization Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) plays a vital role. The STQC framework guarantees the highest standards of quality and reliability within the IT and electronics sectors, making it crucial for maintaining the integrity of technology in our fast-paced world.

MeitY Issues Notification for Public Procurement of CCTV Systems

To ensure the safety and quality of CCTV products, MeitY has mandated Standardization Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) for these devices. In a notification dated March 6, 2024, MeitY clarifies the mechanism for calculating local content for the following types of CCTV cameras:

• Analog-based CCTV Cameras

• IP-based CCTV Cameras

• Analog Speed Dome Cameras

• IP Speed Dome Cameras

• DVR/NVR Systems

Essential Testing Requirements for CCTV Security

CCTV systems (Analog/IP/Analog Speed Dome/IP Speed Dome) must comply with the Essential Requirements (ERs) for security set by MeitY to ensure the integrity of Video Surveillance Systems (VSS). The security testing report for CCTV/VSS will be issued by an STQC Laboratory and will remain valid for three years.

Key Security Requirements for CCTV Systems:

1. Physical Security: Implement tamper-resistant camera enclosures and locking mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.

2. Access Control: Use authentication methods and Role-Based Access Control (RBAC). Regularly review and update access permissions to align with personnel changes.

3. Network Security: Ensure data transmission is encrypted to protect against interception.

4. Software Security: Perform regular updates, disable unused features, and enforce strong password policies.

5. Penetration Testing: Conduct penetration testing to evaluate the system's resilience against cyberattacks and address any vulnerabilities.

Tests that need to be conducted for comprehensive CCTV security compliance

MeitY Announces Amendments to CRO, Introducing ‘Essential Security Parameters’ for CCTV Cameras

On April 9, 2024, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) released an important notification implementing Phase 7 amendments to the Comprehensive Regulatory Order (CRO) of 2021 concerning CCTV cameras.

This notification mandates that CCTV cameras be tested against ‘essential security parameters.’ Here are the key points:

• According to IS 13252-1, CCTV cameras must comply with the Essential Requirements (ER) outlined in Annex A.

• This requirement will come into effect six months after the gazette notification is published, specifically on October 9, 2024.

• All categories of CCTV cameras will be required to obtain test reports from a BIS-recognized laboratory, which will be a prerequisite for acquiring a license to use the Standard Mark on the product.

mportance of Mandatory STQC Certification for CCTV Cameras in India

Importance of Mandatory STQC Certification for CCTV Cameras in India The introduction of mandatory STQC certification for CCTV cameras in India aims to ensure that all security cameras sold in the country adhere to specified quality standards. Here are key reasons for this requirement:

1. This government initiative guarantees that all CCTV cameras used in India are free from national security risks.

2. It ensures that critical components of CCTV and video surveillance systems come from reputable and trustworthy manufacturers.

3. The certification confirms that CCTV cameras are reliable and durable, instilling confidence in their performance.

4. With this certification, the likelihood of purchasing subpar or counterfeit cameras is significantly reduced, protecting consumers from faulty products.

5. In a security-conscious country like India, high-quality cameras are vital for maintaining safety and preventing criminal activity.

6. Making STQC certification mandatory aligns with the government’s efforts to regulate CCTV usage while safeguarding individual privacy rights.

How Absolute Veritas Can Assist with STQC Certification

If you're involved in the manufacturing or sale of CCTV cameras in India, Absolute Veritas can guide you through the process to achieve STQC certification.

Our team will provide expert advice and support throughout the entire certification journey, addressing any challenges that may arise.

By partnering with Absolute Veritas, you can streamline the certification process for your CCTV cameras, saving time, effort, and resources while ensuring compliance with government regulations.