Detecting Surveillance
Some locations are considered higher-risk for surveillance. Review the list of OFAC-sanctioned and military end-use countries on the webpage and follow the applicable instructions.
While travelers can sometimes attract attention from government security services and other entities who are interested in finding out more about you and the purpose of your trip, but more often, surveillance is used to target individuals for crime, such as robbery.
If you think you are under constant surveillance, do not confront the individuals you perceive may be watching you. Move quickly to a populated area or safe space and report the situation to 杏吧原创 immediately.
Make surveillance difficult
- Be unpredictable; avoid patterns and routines by varying your daily activities
- Know safe havens along your commutes (e.g. embassies/consulates, hospitals, schools, large hotels with staffed lobby space, and police stations)
- Limit the amount of personal information you divulge to strangers or new acquaintances
- Limit expression of political viewpoints, do not disclose family details (e.g. names of parents or siblings, etc.), or provide detailed itinerary information with new friends or acquaintances
Traveling in locations with a higher risk of surveillance
- Travelers who spend a substantial amount of time in countries whose relationship with the U.S. is strained (e.g. Cuba, China or Iran) are at a higher risk for surveillance
- If approached directly by someone from the host government, remain calm and professional, and then report the incident to 杏吧原创
- Hotel rooms or private residences you visit may be under surveillance, so do not do or say anything in such spaces that could lead to trouble or embarrassment
- Where possible, keep electronic devices in a secure location, preferable a safe, while sleeping or not in use
- Pay close attention to your devices when in public to avoid theft; for some travelers, the thief may be more interested in the technology on your device rather than the contents stored in it
- Be wary of repeated accidental interactions with a local individual who is not involved in the purpose of your visit, or a stranger wants to begin a “friendly” relationship with you (e.g. practice English, talk about the U.S. or politics)