How Do Private Investigators Do Surveillance?

What is Surveillance?

Surveillance can be defined as the close observation of an object, person, or place to gather information. This is one of the tools a private investigator must have to obtain valuable data used in criminal investigations or subsequent legal proceedings.

The Ethics of a Private Investigation

The world of private investigation has its ethics that govern the industry and job at large. It is required for all investigators to act within the ethics necessary to avoid getting into legal trouble and ensure they operate ethically.

Understanding all the laws governing private investigation is crucial to avoid breaking them. Some of the ethical behavior a private investigator must exhibit include:

• Honesty and fairness in their process of investigation
• They should be truthful by using proven facts.
• They should have strong moral principles and high integrity in their duties.

Types of Surveillance

Surveillance investigation covers a broader scope and has different types of surveillance. An investigator can monitor a person physically or use documents and information provided. Monitoring can also take place either physically or by use of the technology. 

• Physical surveillance: This is the primary approach private investigators use in doing surveillance. It involves all the different techniques and approaches one can take in gathering information, such as stalking their subjects, following them on foot, and recording all the activities done in public by their suspects.
  

• Digital surveillance: This method of surveillance involves monitoring people's activities online. This may include monitoring the public profiles of the person, being part of the forums online to gather information, or following any other general activity done by the suspect online.

• Interview surveillance: This involves interviewing the suspects, their families, coworkers, friends, or any other person who may seem affiliated with the suspect. This is only applicable to some particular types of cases.
  
  
• Technical surveillance: This employs the use of all active and passive surveillance undertakings like recording audios, videos, or taking pictures to capture information.

Basic Surveillance Techniques

Different investigators employ a variety of techniques during their activities. The following are the basic surveillance techniques private detectives can use.

1. Blending in

The blending-in technique involves private investigators mixing with the public to obtain information. They can go anywhere but not trespass on private property and access personal information without permission.

2. Keep distance

Every private investigator should develop this technique. Avoid following your subject closely to avoid suspicion, and always maintain awareness of your surroundings and situation.

3. Be planned on your response

When a situation change happens during an investigation, be sure to plan fast and effective helpful decisions.

4. Don't act weird or suspicious

It would be best if you behaved appropriately every time to prevent anybody from suspecting themselves. This helps avoid some awkward situations that might blow your cover.

5. Keep a record of everything

You should develop the idea of taking notes of every observation you do because they might offer beneficial insights into your investigation.

Bottom Line

Surveillance requires a high skill level and dedication, and they should understand that the job requires utmost discretion to be successful. Additionally, every surveillance investigator should be flexible and be adaptive in every situation they find themselves in. 

Do you need surveillance done for you?

At Apex Investigation Solutions, we are here to help you do the job. Located in Denver, CO, our investigators are trained and specialize in providing surveillance, background checks, or any other service at your request. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.