Activity Checks

Term from Private Investigation industry explained for recruiters

Activity Checks are a common surveillance method used by private investigators to monitor and document a subject's daily routines, movements, and behaviors. This could include observing when someone leaves their home, where they go, who they meet with, and what activities they engage in. These checks are often requested by insurance companies, attorneys, or employers to verify claims, gather evidence, or ensure compliance with agreements. Similar terms include "activity monitoring," "surveillance detail," or "subject monitoring."

Examples in Resumes

Conducted over 200 Activity Checks and Activity Monitoring assignments with detailed documentation

Specialized in covert Activity Checks for insurance fraud investigations

Led team of investigators performing Activity Surveillance and Activity Checks for corporate clients

Typical job title: "Surveillance Investigators"

Also try searching for:

Private Investigator Surveillance Specialist Field Investigator Insurance Investigator Claims Investigator Surveillance Operative

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you plan and manage a complex activity check operation involving multiple subjects or locations?

Expected Answer: Should discuss team coordination, resource allocation, risk assessment, maintaining discretion, and adapting to changing circumstances while ensuring legal compliance and client objectives are met.

Q: What methods do you use to train junior investigators in activity check procedures?

Expected Answer: Should explain mentoring approaches, safety protocols, documentation standards, and how to teach proper surveillance techniques while maintaining professionalism and legal compliance.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you handle unexpected situations during an activity check?

Expected Answer: Should describe problem-solving abilities, maintaining surveillance discretely, knowing when to abort an operation, and proper communication protocols with clients and team members.

Q: What documentation methods do you use during activity checks?

Expected Answer: Should discuss various recording methods, note-taking procedures, photography/video guidelines, and report writing while maintaining evidence integrity.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic legal requirements for conducting activity checks?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of privacy laws, trespassing regulations, and legal boundaries of surveillance activities in public spaces.

Q: How do you maintain discretion during an activity check?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic surveillance techniques, vehicle positioning, maintaining cover stories, and avoiding detection while gathering information.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic surveillance techniques
  • Report writing
  • Photography and video recording
  • Understanding of legal boundaries

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced surveillance methods
  • Evidence collection and handling
  • Counter-surveillance awareness
  • Client communication

Senior (5+ years)

  • Operation planning and management
  • Team leadership
  • Expert testimony preparation
  • Risk assessment and mitigation

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Lack of proper licensing or certification
  • No understanding of privacy laws and legal boundaries
  • Poor documentation habits
  • Inability to maintain discretion and professional conduct
  • No experience with surveillance equipment