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What are the Different Types of Spy Systems?

G. Wiesen
G. Wiesen

There are many different types of spy systems that can be used, from personal surveillance devices and home security systems, to professional systems used by covert government agencies. Personal devices used for surveillance and security often include small audio and video recorders, as well as protection and self-defense devices. Systems used for home security or surveillance can include hidden cameras and microphones often used to record video or audio for use in security. There are also spy systems used by military and government agencies that are often far more elaborate and far reaching in scope.

Spy systems are typically different pieces of equipment and technology used in spying or maintaining security in a particular area. There are many different spy devices a person can use for personal security, often worn on his or her body and designed to be portable and easily hidden. These include hidden cameras that can be located on a person’s body, often hidden in sunglasses, a piece of jewelry, a hat, the button on a shirt or blouse, and even in a pack of cigarettes or a key chain. Microphones can often be hidden on a person’s body just as easily. Someone may also want to use spy systems for personal protection, including small devices that can produce a powerful electric shock or concealed weapons that can be used in case of an attack.

Teddy bears can contain hidden cameras for surveillance purposes.
Teddy bears can contain hidden cameras for surveillance purposes.

There are also spy systems that can be implemented around a person’s home or business. These include hidden cameras and microphones that can be easily concealed or are built as part of an otherwise mundane object. Hidden cameras can be concealed in everything from teddy bears and wall clocks, to media player docking stations, electric razors, and house plants. These types of spy systems are often connected to a network of recording devices and viewing monitors, such as a closed-circuit television (CCTV) system.

Hidden surveillance cameras may be placed in a pack of cigarettes.
Hidden surveillance cameras may be placed in a pack of cigarettes.

Spy systems used by government agencies and militaries, however, are typically far more advanced and are often classified by such organizations. These can include computer programs designed to monitor and track telephone conversations and e-mail messages between various sources. Government agencies and militaries can also use more clandestine methods to carry out surveillance and detection of the movements of other countries and organizations. These spy systems can include airplanes and satellites in low orbit around the planet, which can track and record activity using powerful cameras, as well as a combination of the other methods used in personal and home surveillance.

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    • Teddy bears can contain hidden cameras for surveillance purposes.
      By: Oksana Kuzmina
      Teddy bears can contain hidden cameras for surveillance purposes.
    • Hidden surveillance cameras may be placed in a pack of cigarettes.
      By: gcpics
      Hidden surveillance cameras may be placed in a pack of cigarettes.