Using a webcam to ensure the safety of your home isn't new, but thieves just steal them along with your laptop. However, maybe Burglar Bill will think again when a webcam-toting robot steps up to block his passage.

Robot webcam: taking the metal mickey?

Yes, he'll be too busy laughing he won't hear the boys in blue come storming in, cuffs and night-sticks at the ready...

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Supplier USB Geek doesn't reveal how big this boy is, through it does tout the USB Robot Cam's four menacing LEDs - two in white and two in red - a 0.3-megapixel movement sensor, and 24-bit true colour, 30fps video capture rate.

And if "Johnny Five" isn't exactly imposing in stature, he also has to be plugged into a laptop via USB cable at all times.

The USB Robotic PC Web Cam is available here now for $24 (£11/€17).