Debunking 3 Myths About Surveillance Investigators

A person taking a photo, standing outside of a property

Debunking 3 Myths About Surveillance Investigators

When you hear the words “surveillance investigations,” do you picture trench coats, fast cars, and lock-picking? Those are spies—more specifically, spies from Hollywood blockbusters.

In reality, surveillance investigators are none of this. They are trained individuals who don’t stand out in the crowd and whose car does not stand out. Their primary goal is to go unnoticed, so they can observe and obtain relevant and significant evidence to make their client’s case stronger in court.

Here are some myths about surveillance investigators that you can definitely ignore.

Myth No. 1: Surveillance Investigators Can Record Conversations as Evidence

Reality: Many people think that surveillance investigators can obtain evidence of private conversations through wiretapping and other means. But the truth is, this isn’t what surveillance investigators do.

Any recorded confessions don’t make the cut, either. It is illegal if a conversation is recorded in a two-party state without the other party’s consent and cannot be admissible as evidence. Wiretapping a phone is also not part of a surveillance investigator’s job description.

Myth No. 2: Surveillance Investigators Can Bypass the Law

Reality: Contrary to popular opinion, surveillance investigators aren’t above the law. If anything, they need to be even more cautious of the law because any evidence or surveillance footage obtained illegally can’t be presented in court.

As previously mentioned, methods like wiretapping aren’t legal and, therefore, do not stand in court. Surveillance investigators don’t have the privilege to circumvent the law. They’re not allowed to trespass on properties or impersonate people, no matter how much the job demands it. Every piece of evidence needs to be collected without breaking any laws.

Myth No 3: Surveillance Investigators Lead Action-Packed Lives

A person making notes while working on a laptop

Reality: Surveillance investigators may observe people and situations on the field, but they don’t take part in car chases—that only happens in movies.

In reality, surveillance investigators lead fairly regular lives. They discreetly follow people, take pictures and make notes, but it’s all done within legal and ethical boundaries. They do online research and write accurate reports.

If you’d like to learn more about surveillance investigators and what they’re legally allowed to do, get in touch with our team at Keck Investigation Service, LLC. We offer surveillance and investigation services, including accident, child custody, and infidelity investigations services in Pasco, Pinellas, and Hernando County.

Reach out to us for more information and a free consultation.