During surveillance, what must a private investigator be particularly cautious of?

During surveillance, maintaining distance and not attracting attention is crucial for a private investigator. This approach helps to ensure the integrity of the investigation, as being too close to the subject can lead to suspicion and potentially compromise the operation. A discreet presence allows for unobtrusive observation, which is essential in gathering accurate and reliable information without alerting the subject.

While using high-quality equipment is important for capturing clear and concise data, it is not as critical as the need for subtlety during surveillance. Similarly, although working in a team can offer advantages, the primary focus during surveillance is often on stealth rather than manpower. Recording all findings immediately can help with accuracy, but if the investigator does not remain inconspicuous, the entire operation could fail before any information is documented. Therefore, maintaining distance and minimizing visibility are paramount in effective surveillance practices.