When it comes to personal protection, the specialist options available to High-Net-Worth-Individuals, public figures and C-Suite Executives (HNWI’s) are many. In order to be effective however, the application of these options require a nuanced, highly personalised approach.
Each client will have a different set of requirements as well as threat levels and, equally as important the appetite to engage a security detail. There are a myriad of security services available, often with multiple, complementary components working together in unison. A prime example of one such complementary component is protective surveillance.
What is protective surveillance?
Protective surveillance is the creation of a covert security team around an individual or group, forming a protective bubble around the client in a discreet, low-profile manner. In essence, the Protective Surveillance Team (PST) watches those that may be watching the client. The primary role of a PST is to monitor and control the environments used by those utilising hostile surveillance tactics. The PST’s main objective is to pro-actively identify existing threats and to react as a Quick Reaction Force (QRF), if required in the most extreme circumstances.
Those engaging in hostile activity normally use some manner of pre-attack surveillance – whether in a rudimentary or professional form. Examples of this might include:
- Short-term surveillance perpetrated by an opportunistic criminal
- Professional surveillance team focused on a high value target for the purpose of hostile intent such as kidnap or murder.
A PST is intentionally set-back from a conventional Close Protection Team (CPT) and will have more of an over-arching perspective of the environment, meaning they are ready to react fast. The early identification of threats is vital to ensure time to react. If one has time to react then the chances of a favourable outcome are increased dramatically.
Accurately and efficiently identifying surveillance relies on a large number of variable factors, the core ones being the skill of the surveillance team and the skill of the anti or counter surveillance operators. Whilst many self-titled surveillance ‘experts’ might understand the theory behind it, it is more difficult to find quality experience in that area.
What is the difference between counter-surveillance and protective-surveillance?
Whilst similar, counter-surveillance and protective surveillance should not be mistaken for being one and the same. The terminology is widely misused, both within the industry and beyond, causing extensive confusion.
Counter surveillance is when a third party is used to identify whether an individual or group is the subject of surveillance. A dedicated counter surveillance team utilises multiple methods to covertly determine whether someone is under surveillance.
A protective surveillance team carries out counter surveillance but with the underlying objective to protect the client simultaneously, unlike a counter surveillance team that remains covert and simply disseminates intelligence. A PST is in position, ready to react and break cover in the interests of client safety wherever necessary.
When should you consider using protective surveillance measures?
Protective surveillance is suitable for individuals, families, or groups whether they are categorised as high risk or are simply those looking to better adapt their security detail to their lifestyle. It is, due to the covert requirements, a resource intensive role. To source experienced operators and have them working in a protective surveillance role requires significant investment and selecting the right provider.
Protective Surveillance can also be used without the client actually knowing they are being protected. This is often used in cases of children that may be at risk or when guardians require a greater degree of peace of mind for whatever reason.
In the specific case where children are involved, a PST can be supplemented by a Close Personal Protection Officer Male or Female that operates similarly to a nanny, or a child minder – in the senser that they are overtly responsible for the safety and welfare of the child. In this case though, the individual is also a trained protection officer or medic who is in constant communication with the PST.
The role of digital in protective surveillance
In today’s increasingly technology driven world, hostile attackers are increasingly leveraging digital tools and techniques to collate useful information about their targets whether over the phone, computer or through other listening devices. Incidences involving the use of televisions, radios, Amazon Alexa or other home/office devices are on the rise as they are seen as more effective by allowing ?for surveillance activity to take place from a distance.
Unfortunately, an individual’s digital life often proves to be the Achilles heel of their executive protection. With that in mind it is important to select a security provide that can gain visibility into both physical and digital threats before they manifest into imminent danger.
Ultimately, PSTs are ideal for client scenarios in which protection is required but overt bodyguards simply do not suit the requirements. Many clients do not want to attract the attention gained from always having an overt team in close vicinity but still desire the peace of mind that someone is watching over them and working to protect them.
If executed well, a PST can adapt and constantly work to control the areas around the client and be in the best position possible, always at the right time.