New York State Private Investigator Practice Exam

What does surveillance involve?

1. Making a will

2. Keeping a close watch over someone or something

3. Settling disputes simply

4. Documenting testimonies

The correct answer is: Keeping a close watch over someone or something

Surveillance involves keeping a close watch over someone or something, which is a fundamental aspect of private investigation and security work. This process may include monitoring an individual’s activities, gathering information, and observing behaviors in order to collect evidence or to ensure safety. In the context of private investigation, surveillance can take many forms such as physical observation, video recording, or even digital monitoring, depending on the specific requirements of the case at hand. This ability to gather information discreetly and effectively forms the basis for many investigative practices and is essential for making informed decisions in legal, security, or personal contexts. The other options do not pertain to surveillance in the investigative sense. Making a will relates to legal documentation concerning one's estate; settling disputes typically involves mediation or arbitration rather than observation; and documenting testimonies refers to recording statements or evidence from witnesses instead of the act of monitoring or observing individuals' activities.