Residential Surveillance

Residencial surveillance is probably the most commonly used as most attacks take place near the home, because that part of the route is least easily varied. Most people are more vulnerable in the morning when departing for work, because morning departure times are more predictable than are evening arrivals.

Many surveillance teams use vans with windows in the side or back that permit observation from the interior of the van. Often the van will have the name of a shop or utility company to provide some pretext for its being in the area. The driver may park the van and walk away, leaving the surveillance team inside.

Where it is not possible to watch the residence unobserved, surveillants must come up with a plausible reason for being in the area. The types of ruses used are limited only by the surveillant's imagination. Some of the more commonly used covers are car repairs due to engine trouble or a flat tyre, door-to-door sales, utility repair crews, lovers in a park, walking a dog, construction work, or sitting at a cafe. Women and children are often used to give a greater appearance of innocence.
 

Detecting Residential Surveillance

Some things to check for are parked vehicles with people in them, cars with more mirrors or mirrors that are larger than normal, people seen in the area more frequently than seems normal, people who are dressed inappropriately, and workers who seem to accomplish nothing.

If you become suspicious of a van, note any information printed on the side of the van, including telephone numbers. Check the telephone book to see if such a business exists, or call the number. Make a habit of checking the neighbourhood through a window before you go out each day. Consider photographing any unusual individuals or activities, discreetly if possible.

Detecting surveillance requires a constant state of alertness and, therefore, must become an unconscious habit. A good sense of what is normal and what is unusual in your surroundings could be more important than any other type of security precaution you could take.