Detection Section (TSCM)
Electronic dust removal after startup
A departure that raises questions
The departure of a senior executive, a former partner, or a terminated employee amid a tense atmosphere creates a climate of uncertainty. This person was familiar with the premises, had access to them, and may have had a certain degree of technical autonomy. In the context of a contentious departure, a legitimate question arises: Could they have left behind a listening device, a camera, or a network access point—or retained a way to remotely monitor what is being said and decided after their departure?
“Electronic sweep” specifically refers to a thorough inspection of a space to ensure that no surveillance devices remain there. It is a security and compliance measure that companies undertake at pivotal moments: a change in management, the end of a sensitive business relationship, a reorganization, or simply taking over new premises.
It is just as important for the peace of mind of the current staff as it is for the effective protection of information. Starting over on a sound foundation, as confirmed by a professional audit, prevents suspicion from taking root in the company over the long term.
A real-life example: Following a contentious termination, management wonders whether a device might have been left in the vacated office or whether network access might still be open. Rather than living with uncertainty or suspecting its own staff, the company conducts a thorough investigation to resolve the matter once and for all, one way or another.
What Is Included in a Post-Move-Out Cleaning
Our detection service—TSCM, which stands for Technical Surveillance Counter-Measures—covers all areas affected by the employee’s departure: the employee’s office, rooms they frequented, executive and meeting areas, and, if applicable, the equipment they used.
We are looking for GSM and Wi-Fi microphones, wired microphones, pinhole and IP cameras, as well as covert network access points and connected devices left in place. This list is not exhaustive.
The operation utilizes professional equipment equivalent to that used by government agencies: a spectrum analyzer, a nonlinear junction detector (NLJD) capable of detecting a component even when it is turned off, thermal imaging, camera detectors, and analysis of Wi-Fi and GSM networks. Particular attention is paid to equipment that may have been modified or added discreetly.
Post-departure data erasure also serves a preventive purpose. By making it a standard procedure following every significant change—such as the departure of an executive, the completion of a contractor’s assignment, or a move to new premises—the company establishes a robust security protocol. When incorporated into internal procedures, this check becomes a standard governance practice, just like returning equipment or revoking IT access.
Upon completion, you will receive a report confirming that the audit was conducted. Confidentiality is strictly maintained: this document, along with our findings, is intended solely for your use.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Typical Intervention
After discussing the circumstances surrounding the move and defining the scope of the project, we carry out our work at a time that minimizes disruption to business operations—often without the teams being present. The technician works area by area: conducting a physical inspection, performing a radio frequency sweep, using an NLJD to scan furniture, partitions, and equipment, performing a thermal scan, and analyzing networks to search for unauthorized access points. We then provide you with a report confirming the verification was completed and, if applicable, our recommendations to resolve the issue once and for all. When relevant, we also provide guidance on best practices for securing the premises in the long term: managing and revoking access, monitoring contractors working on-site, and key considerations for future staff changes.
Why Choose the Aquila Group
The Aquila Group is a private detective agency licensed by the CNAPS. Post-departure sweeps combine the search for listening devices with network access monitoring: two areas of expertise brought together by our Detection Division, led by Igor Defosse, the firm’s TSCM technical advisor since 2021 and an IFAR graduate. Explore our full range of detection expertise on our website.
Beyond this service, the Aquila Group is a well-structured firm, organized into several areas of expertise and with a network of offices throughout France. This structure allows us to respond quickly anywhere in the country, while maintaining the same high standards of methodology from one assignment to the next. Our operators are equipped with professional gear that is regularly updated, in strict compliance with the legal framework governing our profession.
Discretion toward the current teams is essential here: we do not want to fuel rumors about a departure that is already a sensitive issue. That is why we organize the assessment so that it remains unnoticed—often outside of working hours—and why our findings are strictly confidential, from the initial contact through the delivery of the report.
We operate throughout France, with high demand in the Paris region. Discretion toward existing teams and confidentiality regarding our findings are at the heart of our commitment. To schedule an inspection, please contact our teams.
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Dust Removal After a Start, Frequently Asked Questions
Ideally, right after the person has actually left, before the premises return to normal operations. We’ll work around your schedule.
Only if you wish. We handle the matter discreetly, often outside of business hours, and the results are kept confidential.
Microphones, hidden cameras, as well as clandestine network access points and connected devices left in place, whether they are active or in standby mode.
We document the discovery in detail and advise you on the next steps—both technical and legal—by connecting you with the right people.
Yes, on premises that your company has the right to use. The possession of detection equipment is governed by Article R226-7 of the Penal Code, in accordance with the Internal Security Code.
Check out all our sections on investigations for detecting hidden microphones and cameras
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