Tecmasters : The Threat

Are you a potential target? If eavesdropping on anything you say, write, or do could increase someone else's wealth or influence, then the answer must be yes, you are a potential target.

	To Counter a potential Electronic Threat
	The Report
	The Charges
	Recent Successes

In 2002, 44% of UK businesses suffered at least one
malicious security breach... the real figure is likely to
be much higher.

Department of Trade and Industry

To Counter a potential Electronic Threat

To counter a potential electronic threat Tecmasters would ideally conduct a reconnaissance of the client’s premises prior to carrying out the survey. The team would also ascertain from the client what action should be taken if an eavesdropping device were to be found. Finally a suitable programme of work would then be agreed with the client.

Some areas are regarded as less sensitive to attack than others, for example open-plan areas. These would be checked using a Strong Signal Search only. All other specified areas would be thoroughly investigated.

The computer-aided scanning receiver searches the radio spectrum from 10 MHz – 5 GHz. Scans are recorded on a computer and provide a record of the Radio Frequency (RF) spectral energy present at that time. This allows the team to make a direct comparison of the RF signals on any future follow-up sweeps.

A survey of the 240v mains electrical wiring is made in case any form of mains-borne eavesdropping device is present. Mains sockets are marked with an ultra-violet marker pen to check that screw heads are not interfered with in between visits.

All telephones in sensitive areas are opened, inspected and then a frangible seal is fitted over the access screws. These seals act as a deterrent to future attack and enable a quick visual check for any signs of tampering.

Telephone sockets are opened and inspected for any extraneous circuitry and then similarly sealed. Telephone cabling and communication / switch rooms are checked and inspected for any unauthorised tapping equipment.

A Non-Linear junction detector (Broom) is used to check for hidden electronics.

Rooms are thoroughly searched and ceiling voids (where possible) are inspected.

At the end of the sweep a verbal report is made to the client. If requested a comprehensive written report can also be provided.

Information can be stolen or gathered by a variety of means, however the threat from eavesdropping devices is very real. The techniques used in our sweeps significantly reduce the threat from this form of espionage.

The Report

If a report is required it will contain a detailed description of the work carried out. All the areas checked will be listed together with the occupant’s names where applicable.

Computer-aided RF scans will be attached where diagnostic signals have been clearly identified.

A list of recommendations and suggested improvements in security procedure is included. This will help the client maintain a secure environment for all types of sensitive information.

The Charges

Tecmasters are competitively priced within the industry, (please contact us for details). Ideally we like to deploy a three-person team, however this is dependant on the size of the project concerned. Extra staff would be called in as required.

Travel and subsistence expenses are additional and would vary depending upon the distance to and the location of the site. A written report is charged as an extra.

Recent Successes

Using the procedures and techniques outlined above Tecmasters have recently detected the following:

A sophisticated tracking beacon covertly placed on a vehicle by one of two businessmen engaged in a financial dispute

A modified telephone handset belonging to a company director adapted by a disgruntled employee

A modified mains plug socket put in place during a domestic dispute

Test transmitters put in place to challenge Tecmasters.