Close Protection Intelligence Gathering for bodyguards and close protection officers has been specifically written for security bodyguards and close protection officers by Dr. Mark D. Yates The British American Security Expert at www.closeprotectiongz.com to understand how criminal and terrorist organisations gather intelligence on their targets. These targets are often under the security and close protection of close protection agency personnel.
A factor in the success and survival of any terrorist group is its intelligence gathering skills.
Concerning close protection intelligence gathering In order to carry out successful terrorist operations and being able to escape, requires long periods of target surveillance studying the potential targets daily patterns, routes to and from work, stop off points on route, shops, petrol stations etc.
When terrorists consider close protection intelligence gathering The target’s work place is one of the first items to come under surveillance as does the home, schools, and places of recreation. Targets are always selected with great care. The availability of good escape routes is always a major factor when selecting potential targets. For European terrorists, unlike Middle Eastern groups suicide bombings and attacks are not their style. Escaping capture or death takes priority. Terrorist intelligence and close protection officers are always looking at new ways to penetrate or identify possible members of the security forces. Either through contract staff, post office workers, repair men who may visit people’s home and see photographs, pieces of uniform or other items that would identify them as a serving police officer.
This type of close quarter intelligence gathering is particularly important in finding the home address’s of serving law and close protection officers, all the above information helps the terrorist build up an overall picture of your lifestyle. Close protection security staff should be aware of this as it allows terrorist intelligence officers to look for weak points or places were you may be vulnerable to attack. This is especially relevant if your close protection client has to visit a hotel bar or club.
Regarding close protection intelligence gathering once security and close protection staff are aware of this information it will help build up a picture of possible terrorist activity against your current and future close protection client/s.
2. Do not advertise that you are a police officer, bodyguard or a close protection officer ie driving home or to work in uniform wearing items of security clothing that display department or agency logos. Never leave police, security or close protection related items on the backseat of your car. While socialising avoid discussions about your bodyguard, security or close protection work or training. Remember loose lips sink ships!
3. When subscribing to Law Enforcement, bodyguard, security or close protection magazines always ensure they are mailed out to your PO Box address.