Businesses' use of livestreaming illuminates privacy concerns

Qihoo 360, the software security giant, is to shut down its Shuidi platform after being accused of breaching people's privacy by livestreaming video from smart surveillance cameras in stores, restaurants and other public places.

The company said the site was developed to meet the demands of customers who wanted to use its cameras to livestream images that promote their business, such as showing off the scenery at a tourist spot or demonstrating a farm's cleanliness to boost sales.

The livestreaming and security monitoring functions on the smart cameras are independent, according to a statement on Wednesday from Qihoo 360's product management team.