How Can TV like Dateline Show Hidden Video without Releases?

[HiFi]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? California

Are shows like Dateline allowed to show hidden video of people without them signing a release like for example Stings the show does on a store or to catch a Predator. I guess they are but then why are other shows not allowed to show people on video without their consent?

 

[quincy]

Shows like Dateline have been sued. They have been sued for defamation, intrusion (invasion of privacy), trespass, fraud. Some cases against the media have been won, some have been lost.

The media often relies on the First Amendment to protect them from suit, however they must be wary of newsgathering conduct that violates a person's rights.