One of the interesting and not so obvious detection devices used by our team is the thermal imaging camera. To those not familiar with the subject, it may seem that a wiretap detector is a small device with an antenna. However, this is only part of the truth, as thermal imaging devices are an excellent addition to an eavesdropping detection kit.
Eavesdropping detector – thermal imaging camera!
Our team uses a range of specialised equipment when carrying out anti-tapping surveys, including the Flir E4 thermal imaging camera. This tool is indispensable, a real ‘must have’ for any team to efficiently and effectively inspect an area. Once the radio spectrum has been checked, the premises have been ‘combed’ with the NLJD and the slow magnetic field detector, what remains is the physical inspection of every item in the room. This is a time-consuming and focused activity, as an eavesdropping device or camera can be installed in virtually any item of equipment.
Thermal imaging allows areas with an abnormal heat signature to be pinpointed quickly and accurately. This lets the operator know where he or she needs to be particularly careful.
Example of the use of thermal imaging as an eavesdropping detector
Imagine a situation in which, during an inspection, we discover with a thermal imaging camera that the frame of a picture hanging on the wall is only 0.1 – 0.5 degrees C warmer at a certain point than the rest. This state of affairs may indicate electronics hidden in the object. A small spy device may be shielded, making it invisible to the NLJD. Placing the eavesdropper in a strong field of other devices may result in a lower detection rate with, for example, an ST-600 detector. Conversely, the heat of working electronics must always escape. In this case, it does not matter whether it is the camera matrix, the circuit components in a miniature voice recorder or the transmitting module of a bug. The heat passes through the camouflage and even through interior fittings such as furniture. Consequently, the thermal footprint is picked up by the thermal imaging camera and the operator already knows what to do about it.
Is the thermal imaging camera a remedy for all types of devices used in illegal surveillance? Of course not. Thermal imaging helps to streamline the check and is a tool that ‘thickens the sieve’ through which it will become increasingly difficult for any eavesdropper or camera to slip.
We recommend the following article, which describes the anti-wiretapping equipment we use in our work.
