The more wealth an individual has, the greater their risk of becoming a target of crime or violence. This is especially true for high-net-worth individuals or HNWIs, which is why close protection services can be indispensable.

Close protection services provide HNWIs with a team of highly trained and experienced professionals dedicated to their safety and security. This team usually accompanies HNWIs throughout the day, and are on standby nearby at night. However, some HNWIs might not be comfortable having these people follow them around all the time. If this is the case, protective surveillance can be an option.

Security companies like Marengo usually provide both services to accommodate their clients accordingly. These two services work in different ways, but both can be beneficial to ensure your security and safety.

Close protection services

Close protection is a specialised security service that protects individuals or groups from actual or perceived threats.

Close protection is more about prevention than reaction, requiring intelligence, planning, and physical strength. Considerable time is spent mitigating risks and avoiding confrontation whenever possible.

This is why close protection services can include a variety of measures, from installing advanced security systems to deploying trained close protection officers (CPOs), also known as bodyguards.

Some close protection services also include personalised security risk assessments, security planning and advice, and operational support. Security companies would also recommend security infrastructure such as CCTV cameras and intruder alarms for HNWI safety inside their residences.

Less-obstructive option: Protective surveillance

There are many, however, who prefer discreet protection services like protective or covert surveillance. This allows them to go about their daily lives without being next to conspicuous security guards but with the peace of mind of knowing that a highly trained team protects them.

Unlike close protection officers, who are always visible, protective surveillance personnel must blend in with the environment and keep a sharp eye on the client. Protective surveillance can be provided as a stand-alone service or as part of a larger security plan and existing security team. 

HNWIs choose this service for various reasons, such as maintaining privacy, avoiding offending others, or providing extra support to an existing security team. They can also put the team to look out for a loved one when they want to hire protection for them discreetly.

Some security agencies also provide digital protective surveillance, such as static observation, mobile surveillance, and the placement of covert surveillance equipment. 

Digital protection is just as important as physical protection, as one of the most common ways HNWIs can be targeted is through hacking, ransomware, and data theft. Data brokers can sell HNWIs’ personal information to criminals who use it to launch physical and digital attacks.

In fact, according to research from BlackCloak, 99 percent of executives have their personal information, including emails, phone numbers, and birthdays, stolen and put on more than 36 data broker websites.

In the end, whether to decide on close protection and protective surveillance boils down to your needs and preferences. If you are concerned about your safety or the safety of your loved ones, or if you believe there is a threat to your assets, consider hiring either service.