Most people think that only criminals and celebrities need to worry about being watched or followed.But the truth is, anyone can be under surveillance at any time. In fact, our private investigators are regularly asked to watch individuals accused of fraud, infidelity or other less-than-moral acts.
Here at Global Investigations, we pride ourselves on delivering an unnoticeable service when we’re asked to keep someone under surveillance. However, if you’re being watched by a less experienced or unqualified private investigator, you’ll likely be able to identify them.
If you have suspicions that you’re being monitored, there are some telltale signs to look out for.
How Can I Tell If I’m Under Surveillance?
There are a few things to watch out for if you’re worried that you might be under surveillance from a private investigator.
Firstly, if you’ve noticed strangers suddenly paying more attention to you, for example, someone regularly following you or trying to get close despite your efforts to avoid them, this could be a sign that you’re under surveillance.
Another giveaway is receiving unwanted phone calls or emails from people you don’t know. If someone is trying to gather details about you or your activities, they may be working for a private investigator.
You should also pay attention to vehicles that seem to appear wherever you go. Often, a single investigator will use the same car during surveillance. If you meet a friend for coffee, watch for vehicles that arrive around the same time as you, remain parked without anyone leaving, or follow you into the same places.
If this happens, discreetly take note of the registration number and observe how the person behaves, especially when they decide to leave.
Finally, if your home or office has been broken into and belongings are missing, it may be linked to a surveillance attempt. In this situation, seek professional help or contact the police immediately. A legitimate investigator will never break the law, so forced entry or theft could point to an unlicensed or fraudulent operator.
What Are The 5 Most Common Signs That I’m Under Surveillance?
The five most common signs that you’re being watched by a private investigator include:
You Repeatedly Notice The Same Vehicle/s
This could be a car, van or motorbike. If you keep seeing the same vehicle in the same place, or following you around, it’s possible that you’re being surveilled.
Quietly note the registration number, times, and locations, take discreet photos if safe to do so, and log the behaviour. Share this information with police or a reputable investigator rather than confronting anyone directly.
You Receive Unsolicited Contact
If you start receiving phone calls, letters or emails from people you don’t know, they may be the result of an unlicensed private investigator. If you get people asking unusual or detailed questions about your routine, family, work or finances, it can be a sign someone is trying to gather information about you.
Save and document the communications (screenshots, recordings where legal), do not give out personal details, and consider tightening your privacy settings on social media and accounts. If contact seems threatening or persistent, report it to the police.
You’re Being Followed
This is one of the most common signs that you’re being watched. If you feel like someone is always nearby, or if it’s hard to shake off someone persistent in their attempts to get close to you, this could be a sign that you’re under surveillance.
Note timing, locations, and any tactics used (e.g. following at a distance, changing cars). Try to remain calm, vary your route if possible, head to a public, well-lit area (shops, police station), and seek help from staff or passers-by if you feel threatened.
Your Workplace or Partner Is Being Distant
If you’re under investigation by someone close to you, they’ll likely start acting differently. A combination of suspicion and guilt can drastically change people’s behaviour towards you, whether it’s your wife, husband or employer.
Oftentimes, people who are forced to take on a big project or meet deadlines at work do have to exhibit the behaviour that people attribute to being unfaithful, so your partner may suspect you, even if there’s nothing to suspect.
Consider whether there are recent events that could explain the change. If you suspect an investigation, keep communications professional, and seek advice from HR.
You’ve Been Burgled
While this isn’t always the case, if your home or office has been broken into and personal belongings stolen, you may have become the victim of a burglary as part of a surveillance operation. Legitimate private investigators should not engage in theft or illegal entry; forced entry or missing items may point to unlawful activity.
Do not touch anything; call the police immediately and report the burglary. Make a list of missing items and any signs of tampering.
Why Would Someone Want to Hire a Private Investigator?
There can be a number of reasons why someone might want to hire a private investigator. Often, people will turn to private investigators when they need help gathering information that they can’t get themselves.
This could be anything from tracking down a missing person to conducting a background check on a potential employee. Here are some of the most common reasons why someone may hire a private investigator:
1. Infidelity or Relationship Concerns
Private investigators can be helpful in cases of fraud or infidelity. If you’re worried that your partner is cheating on you, a private investigator can help you gather evidence that proves your suspicions are correct.
2. Background Checks
Private investigators can carry out thorough background checks to confirm someone’s history and reputation. This might include verifying employment records, financial stability, criminal history, or even lifestyle habits.
Background checks are particularly valuable before entering into a business partnership, hiring a new employee for a sensitive role, or starting a serious relationship.
3. Finding a Missing Person
Finding missing people is one of the most recognised services provided by private investigators. They may be hired to locate missing relatives, long-lost friends, runaway teenagers, or people who owe money.
Investigators use techniques such as database searches, interviews, and surveillance to track individuals who are difficult to trace.
4. Legal Support
Solicitors and law firms work with private investigators to strengthen their cases. Investigators can gather admissible evidence for court cases, such as divorce proceedings, child custody disputes, fraud claims, or personal injury cases. This evidence may involve surveillance, financial record checks, or witness statements, all of which can provide a more accurate picture of events.
5. Fraud and Insurance Investigations
Insurance fraud costs businesses millions each year, and private investigators are often called in to identify false or exaggerated claims. They may look into staged accidents, fake injuries, or dishonest applications for cover. Through surveillance, interviews, and analysis of records, investigators can expose fraudulent activity that insurers or employers might otherwise overlook.
6. Corporate Investigations
Companies often rely on investigators to safeguard their assets and reputation. This may include checking for employee theft, breaches of confidentiality, harassment claims, or wider misconduct. Investigators may also look into potential business partners, suppliers, or clients to ensure they’re trustworthy and operating legitimately.
7. Surveillance and Monitoring
One of the core functions of private investigators is discreet surveillance. This involves monitoring individuals to track their movements, activities, or associations without being detected. Surveillance can uncover infidelity, verify the truth of someone’s statements, or gather intelligence for legal and business purposes. Investigators use techniques such as vehicle tracking, photography, and on-foot observation.
If you suspect that you’re under surveillance, ask yourself why that could be. Are you under suspicion at work, or are you spending more time out of the house?
Ultimately, the reasons for hiring a private investigator are varied and unique to each case.
What Should I Do If I’m Being Followed or Monitored By A Private Investigator?
If you’re worried that you’re being followed or monitored by a private investigator, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself.
Know the Legal Boundaries
Firstly, it’s important to keep in mind that private investigators are bound by law and must operate within the confines of the law. If you feel that you’re being surveilled illegally, contact the police immediately.
Keep a Record of Unusual Activity
Secondly, make a note of any unusual activity. If you’re suddenly being followed by strangers, or if someone is trying to get too close to you, this could be a sign that you’re being watched. Keep an eye out for any vehicles which seem to be following you, and take note of the registration plates.
Protect Your Home and Office
If your home or office has been broken into, and personal belongings have been stolen, it’s possible that you’ve become a victim of a burglary as part of a surveillance operation. In this case, it’s important to seek professional help or contact the police immediately.
Gather Information About the Suspected Investigator
Lastly, if you have any suspicions about who is watching you, try to gather as much information as possible about the person or company conducting the surveillance. This can include taking note of their physical appearance, as well as their behaviour.
Professional Private Investigations Advice & Support
Here at Global Investigators, we are proud to offer a complete range of private investigations services, from advice to practical support. Whether you’re looking for advice on what to do if you suspect you’re being investigated, or even if you require our investigators to look into the matter for you, don’t hesitate to get in touch by calling us on 0800 073 3555 today.