On August 21, 2024, the Personal Data Protection Service (PDPS) published guidelines on video surveillance with recommended practices.

When is video surveillance allowed?

The PDPS noted that video surveillance is allowed for the following purposes:

• crime prevention or detection;
• public safety;
• protection of personal safety and property;
• protection of the minor (including protection from harmful influences);
• protection of confidential information;
• examination/testing objectives; and
• other legitimate purpose.

The PDPS highlighted that the video surveillance must also be adequate and proportionate to the purposes above.

When is video surveillance not allowed?

On the other hand, video surveillance is prohibited:

• in changing rooms;
• in places designated for hygiene;
• in spaces where the data subject has a reasonable expectation of privacy (e.g., a rest area at the workplace); and
• in cases contrary to generally accepted moral norms.

The PDPS also noted that video surveillance may take place in a public space such as in public transport, in private spaces such as a hotel lobby, in the workplace, and in a residential building.

Real-time monitoring

Specifically, the PDPS stated that real-time video monitoring is allowed only by persons with the right to access the video recordings as determined by the persons responsible for the processing, such as the employees of the security or security service. The images should not be available to other persons who are not authorized to access them.

Warning signs

The PDPS highlighted that warning signs to inform data subjects about the video monitoring should be placed:

• close to the camera;
• at a height easily perceived by the human eye; and
• in a lighted place.

If multiple cameras are used, it is necessary to place several warning signs.

The warning sign must contain:

• an easy-to-understand description and image about the progress of video monitoring;
• the identity of the person responsible for the processing; and
• the contact details of the person responsible for processing.

Furthermore, there are additional obligations for 24-hour video monitoring systems.

You can read the guidelines, only available in Georgian, here.