Private Detective Surveillance Germany: Covert Observation

By: Svenja Meismann, Member Board of Directors World Association of Detectives

What is a private detective surveillance?

Private detective surveillance means to observe and monitor a person without being seen to gather information and evidence. This can include following someone and documenting their behaviour.

Surveillance is used in cases of suspected adultery, fraud or theft. Private investigators use various methods such as surveillance and video recording, but hidden GPS tracking is not allowed for private detectives in Germany.

The goal is to get accurate and reliable data without being detected. This information can be used in court or to give our clients clarity about the person of interest.

This technique is arguably the most commonly used method for gathering good quality, usable evidence in court proceedings and partner investigations. It is probably the oldest and most enduring method a private investigator can use because it is the best way to capture natural human behaviour.

Surveillance is a central part of activity for detective agencies in Germany and involves the unobtrusive monitoring of people or objects. This can be

1. stationary (at a fixed location)
2. or mobile (on the move).

All surveillance must be legally secure, i.e. the client must be able to demonstrate a legitimate interest in order not to violate privacy and personal rights according to German laws.

Our private detectives are well trained

Our undercover operatives are recruited from the widest possible pool of cultural backgrounds, both male and female, and from different age groups. This allows us to offer a uniquely insightful solution that provides language and cultural skills that few can match. This is extremely important when considering how to avoid detection by the subject of the investigation.

Several private detectives are often needed to conduct a surveillance. In many cases, it is necessary to conduct surveillance in teams of two or more detectives. This is due to the fact that otherwise the secret surveillance could be discovered too quickly.

In addition, operational tactical measures almost always require the use of at least two private investigators. This also makes it possible to cover roads in both directions, as the investigator usually does not know in which direction the subject is driving.

Surveillance requires experience

Contrary to many media portrayals about how surveillance is conducted (with few exceptions), it requires considerable experience, patience, and discipline.

Our covert surveillance teams are highly trained in the art of physical and electronic observation methodology. The operative will be familiar with case law and current legislation governing the rules of evidence, such as the Data Protection Act on order to protect the integrity of any evidence obtained.

What do I need to be aware of when conducting surveillance in Germany?

Under German law, private investigators are not allowed to use electronic tools such as wiretaps, secretly installed GPS trackers, or cell phone tracking. This is reserved exclusively for the police and security organizations. The authorities usually require a court order or the approval of a public prosecutor.

In the private detective sector, active intervention is limited to cases of assault or apprehension of criminals.

Are private investigations allowed in Germany?

Yes, private investigations are allowed for a private detective agency in Germany. Private investigators can legally observe and gather information as long as they follow the laws and regulations that protect individual privacy and data (GDPR).

Private investigations must be conducted in a manner that does not violate personal rights and investigators may not use illegal means such as unauthorized surveillance or wiretapping. They often work within a framework of legal and ethical guidelines to ensure that their activities are legal and permissible.

We are often hired by law firms for surveillance measures

The Condor Detective Agency is often hired by law firms to provide evidence in personal injury claims and support applications for non-molestation orders. Our services also extend to anti-social behaviour orders, criminal defence, divorce proceedings, and large claims or insolvency cases.

Condor investigators are highly trained and can operate in almost any environment without fear of detection. They utilize the latest technology to enhance the quality of the evidence they provide.

Our private investigators often testify in court, both orally, under oath and in sworn affidavits‘ to support any material obtained. If you feel that your case requires highly skilled and professional operatives to support it, we will ensure that the research, planning, execution of the project and logging of evidence is carried out with literally military precision.

Often used detective services in Germany in connection with a surveillance

• Insurance Fraud Investigations
• Adultery investigations (cheating spouse investigations)
• Surveillance related to labour law
• Child endangerment
• Sabotage and vandalism
• Corporate investigations
• Criminal investigation

There are numerous other areas in which a private investigation service in Germany could be required.

Get in contact with the private investigation agency AB-Detective Condor, Germany

For more information and a free initial consultation with a private detective about surveillance, call a private investigator in complete confidence on:

+49 – 2369 – 20 300