When you hear the word “bug,” spy movies may immediately come to mind. Unfortunately, these devices are all too real and present in more professional and personal spaces than most people realize. What’s more, bugs aren’t just for secretly monitoring the wealthy and famous. Private individuals are also at risk for surveillance due to legal battles, custody cases, business developments, political campaigns, and countless other reasons. If you’re concerned about being recorded in your home or place of business, don’t ignore the problem or assume a do-it-yourself solution can resolve it. Discover how bug sweeps can help secure your business or personal home with the help of ACS Investigations.
What is a Bugging Device?
In the past, bugs were comparatively simple devices that relied on audio pickups and a relay. Bugs were frequently inserted into a person’s landline phone, which would transmit private calls to the party who installed the device. Some listening devices also operated with a radio or two-way signal, depending on the method of transmission preferred.
Today, these devices have grown incredibly sophisticated. They include audio and video capabilities, as well as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and even cellular streaming transmission. Bugs are discreet, making them almost impossible to detect without advanced counter-surveillance equipment and a highly trained eye. When they go undetected, there’s almost no limit to the volume of sensitive information left vulnerable. This not only leaves your information in the wrong hands, but it also increases the risk of your words being taken out of context and used against you by political or legal opponents and other malicious parties.
What Happens During a Personal or Corporate Bug Sweep?
A bug sweep includes physical, visual, and electronic inspections of your property. Yet not all bug sweeps are created equal. Only a properly trained professional with experience in Technical Surveillance Countermeasures (TSCM) can properly screen your home or office for bugs. When a member of the ACS Investigations team arrives at your location for a personal or corporate bug sweep, they will conduct a thorough search that reviews many common areas for bugs, including:
- Floors, ceilings, and walls
- Phones and fax machines
- Office equipment
- Appliances and other electronics
- Computer lines, phone cables, and other wires that transmit data, audio, and video signals
- Electrical outlets
- And more…
This inspection also includes advanced bug sweeping devices that quickly identify unauthorized wireless systems of many types. The term bug detector covers several specialized instruments, including spectrum analyzers, non-linear junction detectors, phone wiretap detectors, multimeters, frequency scanners, and more.
Like many of our clients, you may wonder if non-professionals can use these devices. Keep in mind, however, that professional investigators work with the best equipment available. They also stay on the cutting edge of new developments in TSCM. What’s more, our team has the experience needed to use this equipment and locate bugs amateurs could easily overlook.
Next Steps after a Bug Sweep
A security expert has just conducted a bug sweep and confirmed your property is free from listening and recording devices. What happens next? Whether your sweep turned up a bug or your suspicions were incorrect, now is not the time for complacency. As soon as you allow individuals outside your circle – or even within it – to re-enter, the risk of surveillance renews.
To keep your privacy intact, our team recommends a three-part counter-surveillance strategy for homes and offices that may be at risk:
- Implement a site surveillance strategy. Track who enters your facility or home, when they arrive and leave, and what they do while there.
- Install a quality surveillance system. This lets you act in real-time when detecting intruders.
- Schedule regular bug sweeps. Choose a frequency based on your risk profile and individual needs.
If this strategy seems like overkill, consider this. When a bug violates your privacy, your success, reputation, relationships, and goals are all on the line. In these situations, a strong response guided by professional security experts is essential.
What Should I Do If I Suspect My Home or Office Has a Bug?
If you’re concerned about the security of your dwelling or place of business, seek help immediately. Place a call from a telephone line that isn’t associated with you personally, such as a public telephone or a hotel room. Schedule a bug sweep as soon as possible, and be cautious of revealing private information or using the suspected area in the meantime.
If you’re concerned about the security of your property, contact a specialist at ACS Investigations today to schedule a personal or corporate bug sweep. Our team utilizes the latest equipment and will handle your case with sensitivity and discretion. After the sweep is complete, we’ll review other security risks to help you take a comprehensive approach to safeguard your privacy.
