What does 'debugging' or 'sweeping' mean?

This is the process of scanning a particular premises, vehicle, or device to ascertain whether anyone is using monitoring equipment. Technical Surveillance Countermeasures (TSCM), commonly known as ‘bug sweeping or security sweeping’, involves not only the detailed physical and technical inspection of the work or home environment but also detecting potential areas of vulnerability.

Do we sweep both private properties and corporate offices?

Yes, we undertake sweeps for both private individuals and corporate clients ensuring we provide the same high-quality service for both.

Who might need a TSCM or bug sweep?

Businesses who are experiencing higher than average rates of losing tenders, staff losses, or information leakage may wish to undergo a security sweep to rule out the possibility of corporate espionage. Individuals who are concerned about in-home privacy often wish to undergo a bug sweep to rule out clandestine devices that may have been planted by a current or former partner, landlord or previous tenant. Anyone wishing to gain peace of mind that their information and privacy remains safe may wish to undertake bug sweep.

How can I tell if a property, car, or device is bugged?

The answer to this is that there is no easy way to tell. However, there are several tell-tale signs:

•   Is sensitive information clearly being leaked?
•   Are the contents of private conversations being mentioned by someone who was not involved in the conversation?
•   Has your telephone changed in sound recently or is your battery draining very quickly? Have the settings changed on your laptop of desktop computer?
•   Are files missing?
•   Have you had any unexpected callers or visitors to the office or home?

Do we use specialist equipment?

Yes! Our technicians are trained using some of the best equipment in the industry. Some companies from the investigations industry will use sub-par equipment which is worrying as the level of detection is poor and inadequate. This can ultimately make the situation worse, as it can lead to the perpetrators knowing you are concerned. Our agents will arrive with a variety of high-quality devices from various manufacturers. This means we can offer you a comprehensive service that includes the use of NLJD’s and top professional RF and GSM detectors, thermal imagery and spectrum analysis and full telephone checking systems and numerous devices we would prefer to keep guarded. Rest assured if our technicians arrive, they will be armed with the highest quality equipment and training.

Is the sweep confidential?

Yes, very much so. We also operate in many ways so that the sweep stays confidential. This includes booking in the work over the weekend and in evening slots and working during the rough of night if required, or by arriving in unbranded vehicles and by working under a guise at the home or business and having a cover story agreed.

Are we able to work weekends or overnight?

Yes, and although this takes more time to allocate a slot and position, it is one we do a lot of especially for small and large businesses.

Can we do reports on what we have done or seen?

Yes, of course we can. Please ask for this if you are asking us to check your home or vehicles, as we do this normally on the business sweeps we undertake. We will look at all security and technical aspects and make recommendations in the areas we have looked at or discussed with our contact, and when we have found a device, we can – if the client wishes – enter that device into a chain of custody with us.

What sort of devices are common now?

There are many devices in the market now and a simple search under spy bugs on eBay or amazon can demonstrate just how many devices are out there. The way they are built, and their inner workings, separates them from the real innocent devices they often imitate (such as fake smoke detectors).What’s been very popular for the last 2-4 years are sim activated devices, which are normally built into power laden chargers and three-way plugs, adaptors and sockets. Also very common these days is WIFI and Bluetooth attacks which store and forward objects or data.

Can you check the area of concern periodically?

Yes of course we can. We often do just that for various companies around the India and further afield. By making periodic appointments, we can help alleviate any worries and ultimately brings the cost of the sweeping down in price. Please speak to a team member who can advise you further.