Technical Surveillance Awareness

*This is not a course on how to use technical surveillance tools. This course is designed to help students identify potential technical surveillance being used against them.

 

Technical surveillance is the use of technology and specialized equipment to covertly collect information on people, places, or activities without the knowledge of the target. Unlike physical surveillance (which relies on human observation), technical surveillance leverages electronic tools to gather data remotely, discreetly, or over long periods of time.

Technical surveillance involves using electronic, optical, audio, or digital means to monitor, intercept, or record information. This can include conversations, movements, digital communications, and other forms of data.

It is commonly used by law enforcement, intelligence agencies, and corporate security under strict legal authorization — but the same methods can also be misused by adversaries, criminals, or foreign actors.

Common Types of Technical Surveillance

  • Audio surveillance: Hidden microphones, “bugs,” or wireless transmitters that record or relay conversations.

  • Video surveillance: Covert cameras, pinhole lenses, or long-range optics placed in concealed locations.

  • Telephone & communications interception: Wiretaps, IMSI catchers (cell interceptors), or other tools that capture phone data.

  • Cyber & network surveillance: Exploiting Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or network vulnerabilities to monitor activity.

  • Tracking devices: GPS or RF trackers placed on vehicles, assets, or individuals.

  • Emanation monitoring: Capturing signals or data that unintentionally leak from devices (e.g., keyboards, monitors, RF).

Why It’s Used (Authorized & Legal Context)

  • Law enforcement investigations (with warrants)

  • Counterterrorism & counterintelligence operations

  • Corporate security investigations (when legally permitted)

  • Protective operations for high-threat individuals or locations

Why It’s Sensitive

  • Strict legal boundaries: Unauthorized use can violate wiretap laws, privacy rights, or national security regulations.

  • High risk of abuse: Tools can be used for stalking, espionage, theft, or blackmail.

  • Detection and countermeasures are specialized: Identifying technical surveillance often requires trained personnel and specialized equipment.

Counter-Surveillance / Defensive Perspective

Learning how to detect and defend against technical surveillance is legitimate and valuable for security professionals. This involves:

  • Recognizing indicators of compromise (e.g., signal anomalies, hidden devices).

  • Conducting Technical Surveillance Countermeasures (TSCM) sweeps.

  • Securing networks, devices, and sensitive spaces.

  • Practicing strong operational security (OPSEC).