If you've got an old iPhone or Android phone lying around, you could easily put it to use as a security camera.

If required, you can mount your smartphone using a tripod or car mount to position your old phone. For a wider view, consider adding an inexpensive wide-angle lens. ( Amazon, $23). You may also want to consider keeping it plugged in to avoid the eventual dead battery.

Soon, criminals will have more eyes on them, or at least that’s the idea. Upgrades are being made to the cameras in Chinatown as dozens of high-definition cameras continue to be installed and there are more on the way.