Taking photos with protection on/off: A new feature for MotionCam (PhOD) sensor devices.

The new feature update allows MotionCam (PhOD) sensor devices to automatically capture images when the system changes security modes, providing clear visual confirmation. This feature supports all PhOD sensors and can be configured for the entire system or for individual groups.


By Quang Vinh Dinh
4 min read

Chụp ảnh khi bật/tắt bảo vệ: Tính năng mới cho thiết bị cảm biến MotionCam (PhOD)

Unauthorized access often begins with destructive behavior that goes undetected. The latest OS Malevich update introduces a "Capture Security On/Off" feature, which records any security mode changes. When the system is enabled, disabled, or switched to Night Mode, MotionCam (PhOD) sensors capture images , providing clear visual confirmation.

This new feature is available for all Ajax PhOD sensors, regardless of firmware version, and the "PhOD" designation in the name means the sensor can capture images on demand. Technicians can configure this feature for the entire system or specific groups, and set permissions to change settings and when they apply.

The photo capture feature when protection is on/off is supported by Phod sensors in both the Baseline and Superior product lines.

Outdoor MotionDetector Sensor - Ajax MotionCam Outdoor (PhoD)

Motion Sensor with Indoor Camera - Ajax MotionCam (PhoD)

Vandalism protection and access control

Vacant properties, commercial spaces, public facilities, and manufacturing areas often face a hidden risk—unauthorized access disguised as routine activity. Dishonest property agents or individuals with access to the property could compromise security systems.

In Spain, vacant properties face another serious threat: illegal occupants. Once inside, legally evicting them becomes a lengthy and complicated process. A common tactic is to cover the motion sensor lenses while the system is disabled, creating a blind spot for future break-ins.

For example, a group of people posing as prospective tenants come to view the apartment. One person distracts the homeowner, while another secretly covers the sensor lens. When the fake tenants leave, the homeowner activates the system without realizing it has been disabled.

Another risk is that access codes, cards, or control devices are stolen or compromised before the owner realizes it. Without visual authentication, unauthorized access can occur unnoticed.

The "Capture Photos When Security Turns On/Off" feature eliminates these blind spots by taking photos every time the security mode changes. Key benefits include:

  • Always clearly identify who turned the system on or off and whether they had legitimate access.
  • If the sensor is tampered with, the system will detect it immediately.
  • Providing additional context for the monitoring team minimizes unnecessary patrols and improves response times.

Flexible configuration via Ajax application

The "Capture a screenshot when protection is enabled/disabled" feature is supported on OS Malevich from version 2.29 onwards. To use this feature, users need to update to the latest version of the Ajax applications.

  • For technicians: Ajax PRO: Tool for Engineers or PRO Desktop.
  • For users: Ajax Security System or Ajax Desktop

Users can easily configure this feature for any Phod sensor in just a few steps:

  1. Open the Ajax application, select Space , and then select hub.
  2. Tap the gear icon to go to Settings.
  3. Select Automation scenarios → Click Create scenario or Add scenario if you already have a pre-programmed scenario.
  4. Select "Photo by arming/disarming" as the activation condition.
  5. Name the scenario and specify when the sensor takes a picture: When protection is on , when protection is off , when Night mode is activated , or when Night mode is deactivated .
  6. The decision takes into account or ignores input/output delays.
  7. Select the MotionCam (PhOD) sensor from the list of devices and press Done.
  8. Press Save to apply the settings.

This customization ensures that system events are visually verified and provides flexible settings to meet a variety of security requirements.

System compatibility and requirements

The "Capture a screenshot when protection is enabled/disabled" feature is supported on all compatible hubs running OS Malevich 2.29 or later. To configure this feature, users need appropriate access permissions.

The new feature is available across Ajax applications for both end users and technical professionals (PROs). To ensure full functionality, all applications need to be updated to the latest version:

  • Ajax Security System : iOS/Android 3.20
  • PRO Desktop : Windows/MacOS 4.20
  • Ajax PRO : Tool for Engineers: iOS/Android 2.20
  • Ajax Desktop: Windows/MacOS (any version)

Privacy and security: Complete control over image data.

All MotionCam (PhOD) sensors are designed to enhance security while ensuring user privacy. From the moment an image is captured and stored to the moment it is viewed, every process is secured through encryption and access control.

To ensure data security, Ajax uses end-to-end encryption for both transmission and storage. Images are stored on Ajax Cloud, a regionally distributed server system that complies with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Ajax applications protect data through:

  • Application password
  • Biometric login
  • Two-factor authentication (2FA)
  • Control automatic login sessions

The Privacy menu provides an additional layer of protection, allowing system administrators to control access to sensor images. Technicians and security companies cannot view images or adjust privacy settings unless the administrator grants permission to use the "Capture images when protection is enabled/disabled" feature . By default, this permission is disabled for all users.


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