The evolution and spread of closed-circuit television or CCTV has been explained as part fashion and part desperation. However, despite their growth and popularity a number of issues remain unresolved regarding first generation CCTV. With the installation of second generation systems in public areas, an additional concern to the first generation is the effect of adding computer technology to the surveillance. The main difference between first and second generation surveillance is the change from a “dumb camera” that needs a human eye to evaluate its images to a computer-linked camera system that evaluates its own video images. Even though second generation systems reduce the human factor in surveillance, the enhanced capabilities raise new concerns, specifically the expansion of surveillance and its intrusiveness. The purpose of this paper is to discuss and review the shift to computer enhanced self-monitoring CCTV surveillance systems of public spaces and the social implications of this shift. The key to whether second generation CCTV surveillance will significantly increase crime control capability of the police is how the decision to install and deploy systems is made. Notes, references