How to Conduct Surveillance

Police officers and private detectives may conduct surveillance, and so can government workers investigating fraud. Even a private citizen may conduct a surveillance. Surveillance may be needed to prove fraud, such as in a workman’s compensation case. It may be done to watch for other types of criminal behavior such as drug trafficking. Private detectives may conduct a surveillance to catch a cheating spouse.

Instructions

1. Determine the goal of the surveillance. It’s important to have a clear understanding of who you are suppose to be watching and what information you should be gathering. If a surveillance will be conducted on someone you have never seen, be sure to have a clear photo to avoid any problems with mistaken identity.

2. Buy the tools of the trade. Cameras with zoom lenses, recording devices and a computer may be needed during the surveillance. Surveillance equipment such as a GPS tracking system and audio surveillance equipment can be purchased at specialty stores such as The Spy Store.

3. Be sure you know how to use all equipment prior to getting to your location. Set equipment up and have it ready to go as soon as you arrive. Stumbling with equipment could cost you recording something important at a moments notice.

4. Gather information and record what is needed. Finding out information may be one part of a surveillance, but you may need proof. Keep in mind a large part of a surveillance may involve just waiting around. It is essential to stay alert at all times to ensure you won’t miss anything.

5. Maintain a low profile. It’s crucial when doing a surveillance to avoid being spotted. If the person you are watching discovers he is under surveillance, he will likely try to leave or stop doing whatever he was doing.

6. Stay within the law. It’s important to understand the laws in your state as far as conducting a surveillance goes. If the purpose of the surveillance is to gain evidence for a court case or a lawsuit, keep in mind certain things may not be used in court in some states. Also keep in mind that you must obey all laws, such as following speed limits and restrictions on carrying a concealed weapon.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep yourself safe. Depending on the situation you are in and who you are watching, the situation can quickly become dangerous. Cheating spouses or individuals committing crimes or fraud do not want to be watched. Stay aware of your surroundings, and always have an escape route planned out. Leave a situation immediately if you sense things may get dangerous.