Unauthorised Access: Physical Penetration Testing For IT Security Teams

11.3. Protecting Against Electronic Monitoring

The use of electronic monitoring or 'bugging' is a serious threat and one that is far more widespread than generally believed. Luckily however, it is not a simple attack to execute or at least it's not simple to execute well. The equipment available from spy shops and used by private investigators is usually far below the quality available to intelligence agencies. Consequently, it's relatively straightforward to protect yourself from bugging if you believe you have a problem and you know what to look for.

The following list covers some signs that may indicate you are under surveillance. However, it is not exhaustive and no one issue implies you are under surveillance. Don't get paranoid!

• You are the victim of a burglary yet nothing appears to have been taken.

• You receive an electronic device as a gift and its origin is not clear or you receive such a gift from a vendor or another business partner. Remember, 'beware Greeks bearing gifts': there's a reason why it's a cliché.

• An unexplained bump or discoloration suddenly appears on the wall, ceiling or skirting.

• Electrical wall plates appear to have been moved slightly.

• A smoke detector, clock, lamp, or similar, in your office looks slightly crooked or has a small hole in the surface. Semi-reflective surfaces are a tell-tale sign of covert cameras.

• Items appear in your office, particularly on your desk, but nobody knows how they got there.

• Dust or debris is present on the floor next to the ...