International Surveillance post-Brexit?

The UK’s position as a member state in the European Union (EU) gave UK citizens international travel flexibility. However, on 31st of January 2020 at 23:00, the UK withdrew its place in the European Union. So far, the UK is the first and only country to ever do this.

For private investigators, flexibility to travel throughout the EU was a great privilege. In some cases, a surveillance job that starts in the UK could end up overseas.

At Conflict International, our surveillance team are always prepared to travel internationally. We will always check with our clients first to get the go ahead to continue surveillance abroad. As we have a strong international presence, we have connections with agents in other countries that can help assist us.

But what about complying to the GDPR?

In 2016 the European government adopted the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR.) It is a legal framework that requires businesses to protect the personal data and privacy of EU citizens. All EU members must comply to the laws of the GDPR.

Even though the UK is no longer a part of the EU, very little has changed in terms of the data protection processes and standards. The current GDPR that the UK follows focuses solely on the UK.

However, for private investigators they must ensure they adhere to the UK GDPR, as well as the EU GDPR when necessary. As well as ensuring that data is only obtained for legitimate and legal reasons.

I would like to hire a private investigator to follow someone abroad.

As mentioned above, despite leaving the EU, surveillance work can still take place internationally. However, data protection laws must be followed, regardless of the country. There are some countries that we can operate in with few restrictions. In contrast, there are some countries that permit severe restrictions in carrying out surveillance.

Our blog, “Surveillance: What is permitted in the U.K?”, outlines the importance of ensuring you hire a professional private investigator, with the appropriate accreditations. This is to ensure the hired private investigator carries out a legal and ethical job. As well as ensuring you don’t find yourself in any legal issues.

If you would like to enquire about our services or find out more:
Please contact us at our London Head Office on +44 (0)20 7917 2939 or email us.