Monitoring actions, behavior, or other changing information is referred to as surveillance and is done with the intention of directing, managing, or protecting people. Depending on the objective and level of observation necessary, various methods of surveillance might be used. The various types of surveillance, the five processes of surveillance, the surveillance worker, and the characteristics of a skilled surveillance investigator will all be covered in this article.
Physical, electromagnetic, human, and cyber surveillance are the four types of surveillance. Physical surveillance entails keeping an eye on someone or a certain area to watch what they do. On the other side, electronic surveillance entails the observation of actions using technology like cameras, drones, and other electronic equipment. People who have been trained to observe and report any unusual activity in a certain area are placed there to conduct human surveillance. The goal of cyber surveillance is to keep an eye on online and computer activity.
Five steps can be used to carry out surveillance. Planning is the initial step, during which the objectives, parameters, and resources required for the surveillance are determined. The second step is collection, where data is gathered through a variety of tools such surveys, interviews, and observation. Processing, the third step, involves categorizing and analyzing the data. Dissemination, the fourth phase, entails telling the pertinent parties about the findings. The fifth and last step, evaluation, is where the surveillance’s effectiveness is determined.
An individual who is hired to keep an eye on things in order to spot and stop criminal activity, ensure public safety, or defend private property is known as a surveillance worker. They may work for the government, law enforcement organizations, or private security companies.
Excellent observational talents, attention to detail, and critical thinking skills are required to be a successful surveillance investigator. They should also be effective communicators because they must present their findings in a precise and understandable manner. Additionally, a skilled surveillance investigator should be able to work both independently and collaboratively, as well as swiftly adjust to changing circumstances.
In summary, monitoring is crucial to preserving public safety and thwarting criminal activity. Depending on the objective and level of observation necessary, various methods of surveillance might be used. Planning, data collection, processing, distribution, and assessment make up the five processes of surveillance. A surveillance investigator should have great observational skills, attention to detail, and critical thinking skills because they will be hired to monitor events for a variety of reasons.
The three skills that an investigator should possess are not mentioned in the text, but in general, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, the ability to think critically and solve problems, and attention to detail are some other crucial abilities. Additionally, it’s critical for investigators to be knowledgeable about pertinent laws and regulations, proficient in surveillance methods and technologies, and capable of maintaining discretion and secrecy.
A high school education or its equivalent, completion of a training program or an apprenticeship, and attainment of a license or certification in your state are normally requirements for becoming a private investigator. A background in law enforcement or a related sector is also advantageous. Excellent communication and observational abilities, as well as the capacity for exhaustive investigation and discretion, are also crucial.