Eavesdropping - Don't Fall Prey to It!

With the range of small and affordable eavesdropping equipment now available, the threat of eavesdropping is becoming more of a problem. Eavesdropping detection is not always easy,

even when you understand the threat and know what you are looking for. Bugs are so small that they can be placed inside items and hidden in places that make detection hard. It is important that we understand the threat of eavesdropping and take measures to stop eavesdropping of our conversations.

In the USA, it is illegal to manufacture, import, sell or advertise any eavesdropping device, which may be used for the interception of private information. However, despite this, the manufacture, selling and use of eavesdropping devices still take place on a wide scale.

Bugging

There are five main types of bugging devices that can be used. These types are:

Acoustic Bug
This is a type of bugging device that does not use electronics. Eavesdropping occurs through the use of a water glass, stethoscope, rubber tube or other device that enables the eavesdropper to hear what is being said.
Ultrasonic or VLF Bug
This device converts the sound into an audio signal which cannot be heard by human ears. The ultrasound signal is intercepted and converted back to audio.
Radio Frequency Bug
This is the most commonly used type of audio bugging device. These audio bugging devices use a transmitter to catch the sounds and transport them to someone else.
Optical Bug
This device converts sound into an optical pulse

Various Eavesdropping Operations

Eavesdropping operations usually contain three main elements. These three elements are:

Pickup Device
This is the device that is used to capture the sound in a place or room. Usually, it involves the use of electronic bugging devices, but acoustic and other methods may be used.
Transmission Link
This is the transmission of the sound to a place where the eavesdropper can listen to it. The most popular way for sound to be transmitted is through a radio frequency transmission.
Listening Post
This is the place where the eavesdropper may listen to the sound captured by the eavesdropping devices. It may be as close as the next room or much further away.

How to Detect and Prevent Eavesdropping?

Eavesdropping detection can sometimes be difficult, especially if a professional is doing the eavesdropping. There are some signs you should look out for that may signify that your workplace or home is being bugged

Other people knowing something that was private information
Unauthorized technicians coming into the home or office to do repairs
Receiving strange gifts that may contain electronic bugging devices
Unusual sounds on the phone line when you are speaking or when it is hung up
Electrical appliances in the area receiving interference
Rearrangement of tiles, electrical outlets, switches or light fixtures
New holes from drills that should not be there

If you suspect you have been bugged, you should not discuss this in any room that may be bugged. You should also not discuss your suspicions over the phone. Discuss the problem in an area that you believe is secure. You may need to have a Technical Security Countermeasures survey done.

Continue to: Tips for Protection on Installation of Eavesdropping Equipment

Do You Hear Footsteps Around the Corner? Confirm Your Suspicions with a Listening Device
Spy Camera – Get In Touch With The Basics
Fool The Intruders! Make Use of Voice Changers
Lie Detector - It Could See Through Your Well Planned Lies

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Eavesdropping - Don't Fall Prey to It!

Bugging

Various Eavesdropping Operations

How to Detect and Prevent Eavesdropping?

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