Exclusive: Discreet Debugging and TSCM Bug Sweeps in New Zealand

March 13th, 2018

New Zealand is not immune to the threat of espionage.  From the America's Cup Racing “spy gate” to the All Blacks' incident in Sydney, one does not have to look hard to find examples of corporate spying.

While it is true that very few live bugs are found during bug sweeps - known as Technical Surveillance Countermeasures (“TSCM”) sweeps, many corporates are beginning to understand that the risk is very real.

We look at the “bugging” risk scenario in terms of likelihood and consequences based on the standards set by AS/NZS4360:1999.  Although in most scenarios electronic spying may occur only in exceptional circumstances the consequences could be major and may threaten the survival or continued effective function of the organisation requiring the intervention of top level management or the board.

Where do bugs come from ?

Electronic listening devices, even reasonably sophisticated ones, can be purchased for a few hundred dollars on a verity of websites such as this one from Australia.

Criminal Offence of Bugging

One of the reasons that bugging cases are rare is the fact that it could be a criminal offence to bug a room in New Zealand. If you are one of the participants in a private conversation then YES you can tape it and use it in evidence. But you must be one of the parties to the conversation.

Section 216 of the Crimes Act is a fairly recent Amendment. This basically says if you record a private conversation (not involving yourself) you are liable for up to two years imprisonment. You cannot use this information in a Court. It is a crime to record secretly someone else's private conversation.

How do we find them?

Our TSCM professionals will conduct a detailed examination of the location in order to:

• Discretely determine the threat to the location
• Detect the presence of technical surveillance devices and hazards
• Identify technical security weaknesses that may allow illegal penetration of your facility
• Provide a professional evaluation of your facility’s technical security position
• During the actual sweep, our team will visit the location of concern and perform a comprehensive visual, physical, and electronic inspection to determine the presence and location of any and all electronic eavesdropping devices. We will also identify other technical weaknesses that may exist in your security posture.

During visual inspections, we look for hidden eavesdropping devices in areas in which they are commonly found.

During physical inspections, we take it a step further, physically and thoroughly examining furniture, outlet covers, ceilings, and other locations commonly housing hidden eavesdropping devices such as microphones, recording devices, transmitters, camera systems, and more.

During the electronic inspection we use a variety of sophisticated electronic equipment to identify and locate hostile signals and other telltale signs from eavesdropping equipment that may be secreted in the area. Additionally, we survey AC electrical outlets, telephone cables, computer lines, and other wiring capable of transmitting communication, looking for wiretapping and other intercept devices.

After all TSCM sweeps, we will provide you with a detailed written report of the results of our examination and any recommendations on improving your technical security posture. Should any follow-up measures be needed (e.g. the removal of a recording device), we will work with you to identify the origin of the device and help put measures in place to reduce future risk of attack.

Are you concerned about the security of your information?

Give us a call, we are happy to discuss your concerns in confidence on 0800BUGSWEEPS or click here to email us.

What Equipment do you use?

To conduct professional bug sweeping involves a significant investment in specialist equipment. The equipment used is highly technical and is used by trained staff.

Bug sweeps has invested in state-of-the-art TSCM Electronic Bug Sweep Equipment that are used by intelligence agencies, defence departments and governments worldwide and we are constantly monitoring new threats and expanding our knowledge base to offer our clients the most current forms of countermeasures available.

CPM-700 Counter Surveillance Probe and Monitor

The CPM-700 is a broadband receiver that can detect and locate major types of electronic surveillance devices including room, telephone, body bugs, video transmitters, and some tape recorders.

When the CPM700 is used along with the OSC-5000 and ORION NLJD the three instruments become invaluable in locating even sophisticated eavesdropping devices.

Radio Frequency Analysis

Many eavesdropping devices use radio signals to send audio or video out of the target area. One of our main TSCM tools is the RF spectrum analyzer. This instrument provides a visual display of all radio signals found in the vicinity. Through this device we can see not only the strength of the signal but also the exact frequency, steps can then be taken to locate the source of the signal.

Other specialized receivers are used in TSCM that are dedicated for certain tasks. These include detecting cellular and GSM transmitting devices, checking for “near field” signals to narrow down and pinpoint the location of a transmitter, and checking power lines and other wiring for low frequency or “carrier current” signals.

Thermal Imaging

Electronic devices will generate heat when they are powered on. We use Thermal Imaging in a TSCM sweep to determine if there are any signs of heat in places where it should not belong. Thermal readings from cameras and eavesdropping devices may show up in ceilings, behind walls, or in many other locations. Any such readings will be investigated to determine if the source may be a surveillance device.

Electronic Device Detection

The Non-Linear Junction Detector, or NLJD, is a highly specialized tool that can detect electronic devices, even if they are not turned on or active. NLJD can find electronic components that may be disguised or hidden in other objects such as books, furniture, or woodwork. Sometimes referred to as a “broom”, the NLJD is one of the most important TSCM tools.

Physical Inspection

One of the most important parts of a TSCM sweep is the physical inspection. We inspect all areas in and around the target location. This will involve inspecting furniture, ceilings and soffits, electric outlets, cabinets, and any location that could conceal surveillance devices.

Along with standard tools and flashlights, we also use micro video cameras that help to view inside small holes, crevices, and compartments that may be difficult to inspect visually. Many devices and vulnerabilities are found during the physical phase of the TSCM sweep.

Are you concerned about the security of your information?

Give us a call, we are happy to discuss your concerns in confidence on 0800BUGSWEEPS or click here to email us.