Tennessee Private Investigator Licensing Practice Exam

What is the most common type of surveillance used by private investigators?

1. Covert surveillance

2. Fixed-mobile surveillance

3. Point of interest surveillance

4. Online surveillance

The correct answer is: Fixed-mobile surveillance

The most common type of surveillance used by private investigators is fixed-mobile surveillance. This method combines stationary observation, where investigators maintain a position for a certain period to gather information about a subject, with mobile surveillance, where they follow or track the subject's movements. This combination allows private investigators to gather comprehensive data about activities, behaviors, and interactions in various locations. Fixed-mobile surveillance is particularly useful because it provides flexibility and adaptability. Investigators can start with a fixed position to observe a subject's routine and then transition to mobile surveillance to capture dynamic situations, such as changes in the subject's behavior or interactions with others. This multifaceted approach can lead to more effective and thorough information gathering, which is critical for the successful completion of investigations. In contrast, other methods like covert surveillance may be less common in terms of frequency of use because they require more meticulous planning to remain hidden. Point of interest surveillance focuses on a specific location, which may not capture the full range of a subject’s movements or behaviors. Online surveillance pertains more to monitoring digital activities, which, while increasingly relevant, does not cover the in-person observational skills necessary for many private investigation scenarios. Thus, fixed-mobile surveillance is recognized as the most commonly employed method in the field.