Crimes including shoplifting and terrorism could be prevented by smart CCTV cameras which track human motion and interpret human behaviour.
The new technology which aims to make security more efficient and effective is being developed by a Glasgow man.
Douglas Macdonald, 38, has received a £50,000 Smart Award from the Scottish Executive to develop the intelligent video surveillance system.
Mr Macdonald said the cameras could predict what someone might do next.
He explained his idea: "I have a concept to use computer vision to interpret human behaviour and what people are likely to do next.
Suspicious behaviour
"It is about learning modus operandi.
"Cameras are trying to help, they can identify people that have characteristics relating to suspicious behaviour, people we can't be sure about.
"It can catch your attention and it is down to a human to make the decision."
"It means businesses can use their security resources more effectively."
Mr Macdonald, who has a PhD in Astrophysics, expects a prototype to be available within a year.
He expects the smart camera product to be available to the market within three years.
From the BBC web site www.bbc.co.uk - http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/glasgow_and_west/6244565.stm
