Quick answer
Act quickly, because recorders overwrite old footage. Note the date and time, then export the clips to a USB stick from the recorder or download them in the app. Keep the original files unedited, and give them to police through their reporting process rather than posting them online.
Act quickly
Most recorders keep a few weeks of footage, then record over the oldest video. After an incident, find and save the footage as soon as you can.
Before you export
- Write down the date, time and cameras involved
- Check the recorder’s date and time are correct, and note any difference
- Don’t delete, format or reset the recorder
Ways to export footage
From the recorder to a USB stick
Plug a USB stick into the recorder, go to playback, select the camera and time range, and choose export or backup. This is usually the best quality option.
From the phone app
In Hik-Connect or DMSS, open playback, find the event and use the clip or download option to save it to your phone. App exports may be lower quality than exports from the recorder.
From a computer
Some systems let you log in from a web browser or desktop software on your home network and download clips directly.
Giving footage to police
- Report the incident to Victoria Police and quote your report number
- Keep original files unedited and keep a backup copy
- Follow police instructions on how to provide the footage
- Avoid posting footage of people on social media, which can cause legal and privacy problems
For insurance claims
Insurers may ask for footage, the date and time, and your police report number. Keep copies of everything you send.
Want advice for your property?
Book a free site check and get a fixed, itemised quote within 24 hours.