The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department issued a warning after a camouflaged camera was discovered at a Chino Hills residence in a gated community Sunday.

On Sunday afternoon, deputies were called to a home on the 15700 block of Canon Lane, where a resident had found power banks wrapped in leaves on his driveway, department spokesperson Mara Rodriguez said.

The deputy found a small camera disguised as a plant connected to the power supply, according to a statement. The camera and power banks were collected as evidence.

“The discovery of the camera is consistent with a growing trend observed by law enforcement agencies throughout Southern California,” the department said in a statement.

Rodriguez said the department investigated a similar incident about a year ago, and authorities in Los Angeles and Orange counties also have reported comparable activity.

While the specific motivations for this camera’s installation remain unknown, authorities believe such devices are often used to surveil homes and track residents’ daily routines in order to plan potential burglaries.

Chino Hills residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity immediately. If a similar device is found, officials advise not to touch it and to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department for assistance.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Chino Hills Police Department at 909-364-2000. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may contact the We-Tip Hotline at 800-78CRIME, or submit information online at wetip.com.