How To: Turn Any Android Device into a Hidden Spy Camera

If Detective Alonzo Harris from Training Day taught me anything, it's that "It's not what you know, it's what you can prove." So when items mysteriously go missing from my room or my section of the fridge, it's up to me to figure out and prove which roommate took them.

I don't have a security camera or the money to buy one, but what I do have is an Android device, which can be turned into a makeshift hidden camera with ReCam from developer Ismael GKproggy. While there are other feature-rich apps out there like SpyCamera OS, ReCam is simple and to the point, which makes spying fast and easy.

Note: ReCam requires Android 4.0.3 or higher.

Step 1: Install ReCam

To begin, head into the Google Play Store to search for and install ReCam. The app is free, but for recordings to last longer than ten seconds, check out the paid version for $1.99.

Step 2: Schedule a Recording

When you first launch ReCam, tap the plus sign to schedule a new recording event. Once you set the time, schedule a date, and name it, select the camera (front or back) and the recording quality, then hit "Schedule."

Step 3: Set It Up

With your event created and scheduled, it would be wise to set up your device at a good vantage point. The screen can be off when recording so as to not give anything away, so placement of your Android device can look natural or completely hidden, depending on what the job calls for.

Step 4: Check Our Your Footage

When you're ready to view your footage, simply swipe right in the app to access the menu panel, then select "Recorded Videos." You can also see what you have scheduled to record using the "Recording Jobs" option.

What makes ReCam great is that they make it simple to set up a recording with their user-friendly interface. It's quick and easy, and it'll help you get some proof for your accusations.

Try it out and let us know how it worked for you. Did you catch anybody red-handed? Share us your results in the comment section below, and make sure to follow Gadget Hacks over on Facebook, Google+, and Twitter for more Android fun.