Fraud is a growing concern for businesses across all sectors. Whether it’s employee misconduct, false injury claims, or complex corporate deception, fraudulent activity can have significant financial and reputational consequences. While forensic audits and internal HR processes play a part in detecting fraud, covert surveillance is often the key to uncovering hard evidence.

For legal teams and businesses seeking to verify suspicions or gather information for legal proceedings, covert surveillance offers a strategic advantage, provided it’s conducted lawfully and ethically.

How surveillance supports fraud detection

Surveillance is about evidence. In cases where words, paperwork or interviews fail to tell the full story, visual documentation can fill the gap. Covert surveillance is particularly effective when:

• An employee is suspected of falsifying injury or illness claims
• A staff member is thought to be working elsewhere while on paid sick leave
• Company property, equipment or data is being misused
• A business partner or supplier is acting outside the terms of a contract

Unlike assumptions or hearsay, professionally gathered surveillance footage provides an unbiased account of events. It’s visual, timestamped, and can often make the difference in a tribunal, disciplinary hearing or court case.

At A H Jones Investigators, our experienced network of investigators carries out surveillance with discretion and professionalism, using modern techniques and equipment to remain undetected while capturing clear, actionable evidence.

Legal and ethical considerations

The use of covert surveillance must always be balanced with legal and ethical responsibilities. Privacy laws, data protection regulations and employment rights all play a part in determining whether surveillance is justified, and how it should be conducted.

Covert surveillance must be proportionate and targeted. It should not be used as a fishing exercise, but rather as a last resort when there are reasonable grounds for suspicion.

We ensure that any evidence collected is admissible should the matter proceed to court.

Real-world applications for businesses and legal teams

For solicitors representing businesses, covert surveillance can be invaluable in strengthening a case. Whether you’re advising on a dispute, defending a claim, or preparing for litigation, independently verified footage can help support your client’s position.

Businesses also benefit directly. For example:

• A manufacturing company suspects a warehouse worker is abusing sickness leave. Surveillance confirms he is undertaking physical work elsewhere while claiming to be injured.
• A delivery business faces repeated claims of non-delivery. Surveillance reveals a driver disposing of parcels rather than delivering them.
• An IT contractor is thought to be misusing confidential data. Surveillance, paired with digital investigation, helps confirm the breach.

These are just a few examples of how covert surveillance can provide clarity where other methods fall short.

We combine decades of experience with a practical, ethical approach to surveillance. Our goal is always to help clients make informed decisions, backed by evidence they can rely on.

Learn more about our surveillance and fraud investigation services, or contact us on 0208 191 3445 / 01392 278612 for a confidential discussion.