It used to be the stuff of spy thrillers, but electronic eavesdropping devices are now part of everyday life. The low cost and easy availability of hidden microphones and cameras, combined with the prevalence of cellular, WiFi, and Bluetooth connections, enables even amateur spies to invade the privacy of your home, auto, even boats and vacation rentals.
While bugs are easy to install, they’re nearly impossible to find without professional help. A bug can be smaller than a dime and hidden anywhere in your home or in plain sight as a smart devices like a phone, smart home device or even a security camera. How do you know if you have a problem? Learn more about Home Bug Sweeps.
Warning Signs
Despite the covert nature of eavesdropping, there are telltale signs you’ve been bugged. And if you check more than one or two boxes on this list, a bug sweep should be in your future.
Leaked Conversations or Data. Do outsiders have surprising knowledge of your conversations, plans, activities, finances or other personal information?
Account Change Confirmations. Have you noticed a sudden increase in email confirming account changes or attempted logins? Someone may be using leaked information and accessing accounts.
Recent Burglary or Break-In. Was your home, auto, boat or vacation home the target of a burglary, but nothing of consequence was taken? The intruders may have brought a bug into your home.
Unexplained Spike in Data Usage. Has your mobile phone or internet bill increased suddenly, due to higher usage? There may be an unauthorized device hijacking your connection.
Phone Noise. Are your landlines phones displaying popping, static or unexplained changes in volume? That can be the sound of a tapped phone line.
Dysfunction of Radios and Internet Capable Devices. Odd behavior from radios, auto electronics or smart devices in your home can be a side effect of bugging
Unfamiliar Objects. Is there a new object in your home that no family member recognizes? It may be a listening device.
Outlets Ajar. Are your electrical and cable outlet covers slightly ajar? Outlets and junction boxes are excellent location for bugs. This is often seen in combination with…
Dust and Debris. Do you see small areas of unexplained drywall dust or other debris near walls? That could be evidence of a bug installation, like the recent story of a law firm discovering a bug.
Balky Lock Mechanisms. Are your door locks sticky or difficult to engage? Someone may have picked the lock.
Mystery Vendors and Service Technicians. From the Mission Impossible playbook: Have service technicians arrived unexpectedly or parked near your home for long periods of time? This tactic is used in real life, not just on TV.
Prime Candidates for Surveillance
While anyone can be bugged, experience shows that some people are more likely targets. Surveillance often accompanies:
- Litigation
- Divorce or child custody disputes
- Suspected infidelity
- High profile or high-net-worth individual
Rule of Thumb: If knowledge of your communications and data could increase someone’s wealth or influence, you’re a potential target.
Private information in the wrong hands can damage your assets, relationships and career. If you suspect illicit surveillance in your home, auto, boat, or aircraft, request a quote for a comprehensive bug sweep. HPI counter surveillance experts will promptly answer your questions and reply with a quote tailored to your unique needs.