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Is It Legal to Conduct Surveillance Privately in the UK?

  • Writer: SIASS
    SIASS
  • 4 days ago
  • 2 min read

Surveillance can be a powerful tool in both private and civil investigations – but it also raises important legal and ethical questions. At SIASS, we are often asked: “Is it legal to conduct surveillance privately in the UK?” The answer depends on how surveillance is carried out, who is being observed, and whether the activity complies with UK law.

In this article, we’ll outline the legal position, explain the risks of carrying out surveillance without professional guidance, and show how using technical surveillance experts ensures your investigation remains both effective and lawful.

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The Legal Framework for Private Surveillance in the UK

In the UK, private surveillance is not automatically illegal – but it is heavily regulated. Several laws apply depending on the circumstances, including:

  • Human Rights Act 1998 – protects the right to privacy under Article 8.

  • Data Protection Act 2018 & GDPR – governs how personal data (including video/audio recordings) can be collected, stored, and used.

  • Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA) – sets out rules for covert surveillance, especially when undertaken by public authorities.

  • Harassment Act 1997 – prohibits surveillance that could amount to stalking or harassment.

This means that while a private individual or investigator can, in some circumstances, conduct surveillance, they must avoid breaching privacy laws or misusing collected data.

Risks of Conducting Surveillance Privately

  • Recording people in situations where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy.

  • Storing or sharing surveillance footage without complying with data protection laws.

  • Carrying out surveillance that could be deemed harassment or stalking.

  • Using equipment or methods that are not compliant with legal standards.

Aside from potential legal consequences, improperly conducted surveillance may also result in evidence being ruled inadmissible in court, undermining the purpose of the investigation.

Why Use Professional Technical Surveillance Experts?

This is where SIASS technical surveillance professionals provide vital support. We act as a commercial technical support unit for businesses, councils, social landlords, private investigators, and individuals who need discreet, effective, and legally compliant surveillance.

By using SIASS, you benefit from:

  • Lawful deployment of advanced covert surveillance technology.

  • Assurance that evidence is collected in a way that is legally admissible.

  • State-of-the-art equipment without the need for your own investment.

  • Support that frees up your investigative resources, letting you focus on the wider case.

Our experts understand the boundaries of UK surveillance law and ensure that investigations are carried out responsibly.

Conclusion: Is Private Surveillance Legal in the UK?

Yes, it can be – but only if done lawfully and proportionately. Attempting surveillance privately without expertise can expose you to legal risks. By working with SIASS, you gain the peace of mind that your investigation will be conducted to the highest professional standards, with respect for both the law and individual right

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c/o Verrimus Limited
58 Low Friar Street
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 5UD

Telephone - 07441446445
email@siass.org.uk



 

© 2020 by SIASS a trading presence of Verrimus Ltd 

  • Q: What investigation subjects do SIASS tackle?
    A: SIASS, a commercial technical surveillance unit, specialises in a wide range of professional, lawful, and ethical investigation subjects. These include corporate espionage, fraud detection, employee misconduct, intellectual property theft, infidelity investigations, background checks, and surveillance operations. Utilising advanced technology and expert methodologies, SIASS ensures thorough and discreet investigations tailored to meet the specific needs of each client.
  • Q: What are the main services provided by SIASS?
    A: SIASS offers a range of specialised technical surveillance services designed to meet professional, lawful, and ethical standards. Our main services include: 1. Technical Surveillance Counter-Measures (TSCM): Comprehensive sweeps to detect and neutralise electronic eavesdropping devices, ensuring your environment is secure from any unauthorised surveillance. 2. Covert Camera Installation: Discreet installation of high-quality surveillance cameras tailored to meet our clients' specific needs, providing reliable monitoring while maintaining the utmost confidentiality. 3. Tracking Solutions: Advanced tracking systems for vehicles, assets, and individuals to ensure their safety and provide real-time location information. Our team consists of ex-British army personnel who bring extensive experience and a commitment to integrity and professionalism to every job. At SIASS, we prioritize client confidentiality and aim to deliver the highest standards of technical surveillance available in the industry.
  • Q: What is a Technical Surveillance Unit (TSU) and can clients use it?
    A: A Technical Surveillance Unit (TSU) is a specialised team that employs advanced technological tools and methods to conduct surveillance, gather intelligence, and monitor activities in a discreet and professional manner. At SIASS, we operate as a commercial TSU and are managed run by highly skilled personnel who bring extensive experience and expertise to the field. SIASS TSU provides a range of services, including covert audio and video recording, GPS tracking, and electronic counter-surveillance measures, all carried out with the highest standards of professionalism, lawfulness, and ethics. These operations are crucial for investigations that require meticulous observation without detection, ensuring our clients receive accurate and reliable results.
  • Q: What is covert surveillance, and how does SIASS implement this service?
    A: Covert surveillance refers to the secret monitoring of individuals, places, or activities without the subjects being aware that they are being watched. It is designed to gather information and evidence discreetly. At SIASS, our team, composed of ex-British army personnel, excels in executing professional, lawful, and ethical covert surveillance operations. We utilize state-of-the-art technical surveillance equipment and proven techniques to ensure that our findings are accurate and reliable. This expertise allows us to effectively support our clients in matters such as fraud investigations, business espionage, and personal security. By maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality and integrity, SIASS ensures that all covert surveillance activities are conducted in strict compliance with legal and ethical guidelines, providing our clients with peace of mind and actionable intelligence.
  • Q: Can I use a covert camera to evidence a behaviour?
    A: At SIASS, we understand the delicate and often complex nature of surveillance. Using a covert camera to evidence behavior is permissible under certain conditions, provided it adheres to legal and ethical guidelines. Our team, ensures that all surveillance activities are conducted professionally and within the bounds of the law. In the UK, the use of covert cameras must comply with the Data Protection Act 2018 and the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000. Surveillance must be justified, necessary, and proportionate to the issue being investigated and the evidence gathered must be handled securely to protect individual privacy. It is crucial to consult with a professional investigative firm like SIASS to ensure that any covert surveillance operations are legally sound and ethically conducted.
  • Q: How much does it cost to hire SIASS for covert surveillance services?
    A: The cost to hire SIASS for private investigation services varies depending on the complexity and scope of the assignment. SIASS offers tailored solutions, ensuring each investigation is customized to meet the specific needs of our clients. Typically, the costs can range from £75 for an hour of covert surveillance. Our team, comprised of ex-British army personnel, brings unparalleled expertise, professionalism, and ethical conduct to every case. For a detailed and accurate quote, we recommend contacting us directly to discuss your specific requirements. This ensures that the cost reflects the precise nature of the services you need, guaranteeing value and effectiveness in achieving your objectives.
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