SAINTCON 2024 - Day 2 - Livestream

Many modern surveillance devices rely on power sources and internet connectivity, making power outlets and cables potential indicators of hidden devices

Human senses have limitations compared to surveillance technology - machines can detect infrared, radio waves, and other signals imperceptible to humans

Basic surveillance countermeasures include:

• Physical inspection of unknown devices/cables
• Using phone cameras to detect IR emissions
• Monitoring for unexpected network traffic
• Understanding typical surveillance device limitations (power, range, etc.)

Key properties affecting surveillance capabilities:

• Distance/range limitations
• Material barriers and signal interference
• Power source requirements
• Environmental factors (lighting, weather, etc.)

Threat modeling helps prioritize surveillance concerns by:

• Identifying likely surveillance motivations
• Understanding technical capabilities and limitations
• Assessing personal/organizational risk factors
• Determining appropriate countermeasures

Common surveillance motivations include:

• Commercial tracking/analytics
• Law enforcement
• Personal revenge
• Competitive intelligence
• Crime/fraud

Modern surveillance increasingly combines multiple sensor types:

• Audio + video
• IR + visible light
• Radio frequency monitoring
• Movement/presence detection

Small form factor and innocuous appearance make modern surveillance devices harder to detect compared to traditional obvious cameras

Data collection is the primary purpose of surveillance - understanding the intended use helps assess risk

Privacy protection requires ongoing awareness as surveillance technology continues advancing rapidly