Takeaway: New research shows that a majority of Americans are using their phones to become full-time security operators.
A new national survey from Tactacam, maker of the Defend Cellular Security Camera and mobile app, reveals a fundamental shift in how Americans protect their homes, property, and outdoor spaces. The findings show that U.S. consumers are moving away from traditional “set it and forget it” alarm systems toward a mobile-first, always-on monitoring lifestyle.
The study, based on responses from 1,004 U.S. adults, found that 37% check their security cameras multiple times per day and another 21% check at least once every day, creating what Tactacam calls the “Always-On Surveillance Society.”
“Our research shows that home security has become an active, real-time practice, not a background service you only think about when an alarm goes off,” said Kelly Hover, Chief Marketing Officer,. “People are integrating security monitoring into their daily habits, whether they’re at home, at work, or traveling. Defend cameras and monitoring apps provide them with 24/7 peace of mind.”
Key Findings: The Great Security Shift
Constant Vigilance – Only 8% check cameras weekly or less; 13% rely solely on alert-triggered viewing, trusting automation.
Mobile Command Centers – 61% use smartphone apps as their primary monitoring tool, turning mobile devices into always-available “pocket security hubs.”
Travel and Work Integration – 68% monitor while traveling; 11% specifically monitor during work hours, reflecting workplace anxiety about home security.
Multi-Point Strategies – 27% monitor multiple entry points simultaneously; 35% watch driveways for early approach detection; 25% monitor property perimeters for advanced warning.
From Passive Systems to Real-Time Decision Making
This new data points to a behavioral transformation: consumers are now capable of, and comfortable with, responding instantly to potential threats from anywhere. Location independence, proactive surveillance, and multi-point monitoring are becoming standard practices, even for everyday homeowners.
“Security isn’t just at the front door anymore, it’s in the palm of your hand, wherever you are,” added Hover. Defend’s cellular technology makes this possible for more people, especially those in rural or remote areas without wired internet.”
About the Defend Cellular Security Camera
The Tactacam Defend is a cellular-enabled, weather-resistant security camera designed for properties of all sizes, from suburban homes to remote rural land. Offering crystal-clear video, mobile app control, and instant alerts, Defend empowers users to monitor multiple points from virtually anywhere — without Wi-Fi.
For more information, visit defendcellcam.com
Survey Methodology
The Propeller Insights survey commissioned by Tactacam surveyed 1,004 U.S. citizens, 18 and over, across the U.S. in July 2025. Survey responses were nationally representative of the U.S. population for age, gender, region and ethnicity. The maximum margin of sampling error was +/- 3 percentage points with a 95% level of confidence.
About Tactacam
Since 2013, Tactacam, a U.S.-based technology pioneer, has enriched outdoor pursuits by redefining the landscape of cellular camera technology. Tactacam integrates cutting-edge research, app development, and proprietary digital technology to offer future-proof solutions that are useful, affordable, and innovative. The continued innovation of flagship models like Defend, the REVEAL X 3.0 and Pro 3.0 showcase Tactacam's commitment to user-friendly applications. Tactacam prioritizes customer support above all and empowers its customers to excel in their outdoor passions. You can learn more at https://www.tactacam.com/ or follow on social @defendbytactacam.