Definition of Counter-Surveillance:
Counter-surveillance is defined in the Merriam-Webster dictionary as “methods and devices used for detecting or thwarting surveillance.”
For example, consider a business that uses in-house janitorial services. One night, while cleaning the CEO’s office, a janitorial worker moved a cabinet to clean behind it. Subsequently, the worker came across a digital recorder laying on the floor. Upon closer inspection, the worker noticed the recorder was set to the “on” position and a red light blinked whenever a sound was made. The next day, the worker handed the device over to security personnel, who later ascertained that the device had recorded five days of private conversations. Unintentionally, and by chance, the janitorial worker conducted a form of counter-surveillance known as manual sweeping or physical inspection.
Businesses
Business owners routinely encounter obstacles during normal operations. Property theft is an example of a hurdle that negatively impacts the profitability of a business. Accordingly, businesses carry insurance policies that cover the adjusted replacement cost for stolen, or missing property. What happens when a business’ ideas, concepts, or designs are stolen?
Ideas, concepts, and designs are “intellectual property”. Protected by law as a trade secret, copyright, patent, or trademark. Intellectual property theft increases year to year. The Associated Press estimates that intellectual property theft costs the U.S. economy $600 billion annually. Because of this, OnyxSpear encourages businesses of any size to be proactive, and implement basic measures such as comprehensive background check screenings for new hires. Furthermore, we recommend annual background check screenings for individuals that hold middle or upper level management positions.
Electronic, or digital, surveillance is a serious matter, and can be directed against an individual(s), or a business. Moreover, it violates both state and federal laws. Digital surveillance is insidious, and is generally discovered by chance, after the damage has been done. Advancements in technology have produced easy to operate, miniature smart devices, such as wireless cameras, and microphones, capable of transmitting via Bluetooth and, or Wi-Fi networks. Unless you know what to look for, a surveillance device will remain hidden. OnyxSpear offers counter-surveillance solutions tailored to help prevent or mitigate electronic, or digital surveillance.
Public
Counter-Surveillance is an area of specialization that has recently gained momentum in the public sphere. Our firm has noticed an increase in public inquiries related to counter-surveillance. Based on conversations, this often involves ex-husbands, ex-wives, ex-boyfriends, or ex-girlfriends. Typically, the client believes their prior romantic partner is, or was engaged in, audio and video surveillance activities. Digital audio and video recorders, as well as GPS trackers, are frequently reported.
OnyxSpear Assistance
Acknowledging the existence of digital and human-based surveillance threats, is a meaningful first step. Knowing whom to turn to for guidance, and assistance in countering these threats, is equally important. Please do not hesitate to contact OnyxSpear for a no-cost consultation regarding counter-surveillance solutions.
Please visit our Background Check page for additional information: https://onyxspear.com/background-checks/
New York State Penal Law “Offenses Against the Right to Privacy”: https:///legislation/laws/PEN/P3TNA250
U.S. Department of Justice: https://www.justice.gov/criminal
