to the OP. Sounds pretty obvious but don't set your cameras up in spots where there is a good chance of others seeing it. I use relatively inexpensive cameras for two reasons. 1, I can afford more and watch more areas and 2, I can't accept the risk of someone running off with a $500 camera.
In certain spots, I elevate a couple of mine using screw in tree steps, gets them out of your normal field of view. If I need to leave a camera at eye level to watch a trail, I orient it so anyone walking is unlikely to see it. But in the end, you just can't guarantee some idiot wont destroy or steal it "or salvage it" as hawk-I puts it.
Like others, I have had bears relocate my cameras so I now wash my hands and de-scent my cameras as best I can.