Social Media Investigations and Monitoring for Risk Mitigation Purposes

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The use of social media and the way it affects our lives and businesses have brought a new challenge to the security industry and the protective team’s responsibility. It gives the entire world the ability to look into people’s lives with the mere push of a button. Scandals are created, secrets exposed, and lives ruined. In the case of personal security, social media can be used in the advancement of a protective detail; however, one must know how to utilize it properly. Today, we will talk about Social Media Investigations and Monitoring. For those who are not aware of the term, as we utilize it in protection circles, Social Media Investigation and Monitoring is the process by which you can identify what is being said about your clients, a brand they represent, or the corporations with which they are involved and any threats or dangers that may exist in relation to those aspects.

As we sift through different social media platforms and online channels, we must then determine if what is being said has any significance regarding your clients’ reputation, persona, and safety and if there is the need to mitigate any risks. In other words, it’s like setting up an online, social media “net”. This process then helps you discover everything that is being said, written about, or portrayed on social media and determine its relevance to your clients. You can gather information about the ‘’public opinion’’ surrounding your clients, about people or entities who are angry with them for one reason or the other, people who are obsessed with them, or people who are making online threats. SOCMINT or Social Media Intelligence (not to be confused with OSINT) has seen a huge rise in necessity due to the use of social media and a competent protective detail needs to always be informed and social media investigations and monitoring are a huge part of this process. 

Now, let’s see some examples of how social media investigations and monitoring applies in protective services. Let’s say one of the people you are protecting belongs to a large pharmaceutical company and they decided to raise the price of a specific drug, thus affecting the lives and wellbeing of thousands of people. Perhaps another client is involved in a financial institution that quite suddenly makes a significant decision that affects people’s lifetime savings and pensions. You can imagine that there will be a significant number of people who become very angry, and some may want to harm your client. During the recent pandemic, there were a number of “anti-vaxx” groups that were quite vocal and utilized Facebook as one of their many platforms to accomplish their goals. Another example would be the need to discover if there is someone using your client’s name or company to scam others and commit crimes.

We are sure that many of you today are aware of the infamous ‘’Tinder Swindler’’, Shimon Yehuda Hayut, who legally changed his name to Simon Leviev to pretend to be the son of the billionaire Lev Leviev and used his name and company logos to scam people. Although his actions were known since 2017, it was only after the airing of the Netflix documentary in 2022 that the Leviev family found out and filed a lawsuit against Hayut for falsely portraying himself as the son of Lev Leviev, receiving benefits, and committing crimes.

According to Leviev’s family attorney, Guy Ophir, they will now include anyone who has attempted to make a profit from his scam during the next lawsuit. What we can ask is, as security providers, why didn’t someone from the real Leviev family ever discover this scam artist who was extremely public and active on social media as the ‘’son of Lev Leviev’’? Although the real family members were never part of this fraudulent scheme, and it didn’t appear to affect their safety, it did, however, involve their name/brand in a very public and negative way. In other words, it should have definitely been considered as a threat to their reputation. Other people who were harmed by this scam artist were the businesses who did work with them, and their secondary service providers as well. 

Another interesting case to mention is Elon Musk where he, the actual client, took it upon himself to “solve” the issue and directly contacted the person of interest who had begun posting his private flight details and created the security risk for him and was literally blackmailing him unless the POI was paid. According to media reports “Elon Musk states social-media accounts that track his travel movements are ‘becoming a security issue.” Tail numbers and yacht names of billionaires are increasingly being shared on online platforms and one can track them by having the appropriate app unless significant efforts are made to secure them from the reach of those diligent few. These are some unique specific details that the security team needs to pay close attention to at all times.

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Since Social Media platforms are the way people today communicate with each other, we as security providers must keep in mind that this is not always a positive aspect. Perhaps a person or persons will utilize social media to collectively gather people with their same goal or mission, to get together and plan their next move (Example: protesting outside your client’s house or corporation). In this case, you will want to know what is being said online about the person you protect to determine if there is something of extreme necessity to include in your risk and threat assessment and then take protective measures as well as inform their legal department.

As we have all witnessed too many times, it only takes one well-placed picture or story regarding some alleged activity on the part of your client, and it will go viral quickly, truth or not. Staying one step ahead of this type of “attack” has become a crucial necessity in order to protect your client from embarrassment or exposure. One of the most common issues in recent history is when personnel close to the client i.e., family, staff, vendors, and any other secondary customers post pictures, stories, or opinions and subsequently fail to understand the negative effect these types of communications can and will have on the client’s life, business, and the lives of their loved ones.

Why do you need a Social Media Investigations and Monitoring Strategy when you are a security services provider? To summarize we can say:  

1) To identify new threats. 

2) To discover what information about your client is posted online either by himself, the ones close to him, or his employees and evaluate how these affect his safety. 

3) To evaluate a threat (someone is posting online threats directed at your client).

4) To add to your due diligence.

5) To geolocate a picture or a video, sometimes even audio. 

6) To include any findings in your Risk and Threat Assessment (We can never highlight this enough, social media surveys and investigations are now a critical part of your Risk and Threat Assessments).

7) To find people obsessed with or following your clients (stalkers).

8) To identify hate groups or terrorist organizations that may affect your client.

9) To identify people or businesses your client may or may not want to do business with.

10)To mitigate risks from the information found online about the person you protect (How are the pictures of my client used or tampered with and for what purpose?).

11)To identify if someone is impersonating your client or a family member.

12)To find out if your client’s moves/visits/travels are posted online (Exposing them to others who may be in the same hotel, conference room, restaurant). 

13)To identify workplace violence or insider threat indicators.

14)To find out what is the ‘’public opinion’’ regarding your client (Always keep an eye on what is being said about your client and have a strategy to respond). 

15)To determine if a person or persons are utilizing your client’s name or business name in a malicious or unauthorized manner for their own personal gain. (Claiming associations or partnerships, etc.)

How to perform Social Media Monitoring for security purposes? 

First, let’s clarify one important thing. ‘’Googling it’’ is not enough, nor is it the answer. There are a number of search sites that allow for user input thus watering down or contaminating information and it’s accuracy. For those who are not aware, Social Media Investigations and Monitoring is quite a different department of protective services and quite often falls under Intelligence Analysis and Open-Source Intelligence. It requires unique skills and knowledge. One must clearly understand different social media and research platforms and how to use each one of them (and/or in combination) to obtain information. How you will approach each case is different and certainly depends on who your client is, their business, close relations, and/or their public image. This will directly affect the searches and the resources used and for what purpose. It is vital in our current day and age to include SOCMINT (Social Media Intelligence) in your client’s service proposal, no matter how public the person may or may not be. Hiring ten Executive Protection agents and a Residential Security Team is not enough anymore. SOCMINT services are a vital part of your Risk and Threat Assessments (Dynamic Risk Assessments too) and enable your protective detail to function more efficiently. 

For those who can not provide a certified Social Media Investigator for their clients, follow up with these steps:

1)Understand who your client is, his/her background, the threats, where do they stand in political, social, financial sectors.

2)Be aware of any of the latest changes in your clients’ lifestyle, public opinions, and professional decisions. 

3)Be aware of any of their political and social changes. Watch the news from multiple channels. 

4)Familiarize yourself with all close family, friends, staff, and associates and their respective social media footprints.

5)Set up a social media investigation and monitoring strategy. 

6)Have a good understanding of the Intelligence Cycle (How the intel is being collected, analyzed, disseminated, reviewed, etc.).

7)Have a good understanding of the search tools on different platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Tumblr, Reddit, etc.) 

8)Do research on the available search engines and the strengths and limitations each one may have. 

9)Know how to conduct image, video, and audio research and gather intelligence from them.

10)Invest in appropriate platforms for social media investigations and monitoring (Have in mind, NEVER rely on one platform’s result or just platforms’ results. The user/investigator is the main component of a social media investigation). 

11)Download and use appropriate search engine extensions and apps. 

12)Invest time in creating ‘’sock puppets’’ or fake profiles and maintain their persona. Sometimes you may need a profile to have access to different forums or groups without being discovered.

13)Train yourself in link analysis (How to look for connections between people, events, and organizations).

14)Set keyword alerts (In multiple languages in case your client has ties with more than one country).

15)Gather, analyze, evaluate, and report your findings to the appropriate department or leadership.  

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As the threat landscape changes every day, we as protection providers must be able to adapt and keep ourselves up to date with additional training. Today’s executive protection agent must also be skilled and knowledgeable in investigations, open-source intelligence, protective intelligence, HUMINT, and have an increased understanding of cyber security. Large corporations have already created their own embedded intelligence departments, while others are hiring threat analysts and OSINT investigations from outside security providers. The rise of protective intelligence, and whatever that includes, is here to stay and we are seeing it more and more through the highly increased number of related job postings every day. 

If you are an Executive Protection Agent and want to learn more on how to utilize Social Media Investigations and Monitoring for Risk Mitigation Purposes, reach out to us.

f you are a service provider and want to add Social Media Investigations and Monitoring for Risk Mitigation Purposes on your service list, contact us to learn about our vendor services. 

Chris Grow

AUS Global Special Services Travel Team

Managing Partner LeMareschal LLC

Denida Grow

Founder & CEO

Athena Worldwide 

Nannyguards

Managing Partner LeMareschal LLC

Taking Childcare to New Heights: Nannyguards Featured in Virgin Atlantic’s Vera Magazine!

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Fasten your seatbelts, folks! 🛫 We’re taking flight with @VirginAtlantic. Thrilled to be featured in Vera’s in-flight magazine! On land, in the air, and everywhere in between, Nannyguards are committed to keeping your precious ones safe. Don’t forget to check us out at 30,000 feet! Read the full article here!

#NannyguardsInVera #AboveAndBeyond #VirginAtlantic #ChildSafety #nannysecurity #mannies #nannies #securitynannies #nannyguards #childprotection #hireananny #luxurynannyagency #boutiquenannies #childsafety #familyprotection #bodyguardsforkids #childrensbodyguards #celebritynannies

Driver joins Olaf Scholz’s motorcade in a security breach!

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A recent incident involving German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s security convoy highlights the importance of motorcade operations in executive protection. Though the motorcade itself is a strong protectionary measure, we in the close protection field are highly aware that vehicle movements, particularly drops & pick-ups, are our weakest points.                     

According to media reports, a man, unauthorized, drove his vehicle into and joined Scholz’s official convoy and then approached him, all while under the influence of drugs. The incident occurred as Scholz was on his way to his government plane at Frankfurt Airport after a meeting at the European Central Bank. The man managed to join the convoy, quickly leave his vehicle once stationary, and actually embrace the Chancellor before being intercepted by his bodyguards.
     This incident serves as a reminder of the critical role that motorcades play in ensuring the safety and security of high-profile individuals. Motorcades are carefully planned and executed operations that involve a coordinated movement of vehicles, including armored cars, motorcycles, and support vehicles, all aimed at protecting the principal and deterring potential threats.


The presence of a motorcade provides several advantages in executive protection. First and foremost, it establishes a visible and imposing presence, deterring potential attackers or unauthorized individuals from approaching the protected person. The strict access control protocols and physical barriers around the motorcade create a secure perimeter, making it difficult for unauthorized individuals to breach. But all drivers involved must keep a close eye for intrusion into the motorcade while in motion.
      And, as we mentioned previously, the other side to this is that getting in and out of the vehicles at drops or pick-ups presents our weakest and most vulnerable moments. Agents and drivers alike must be highly aware of all surroundings during these particular movements. Just a brief lapse in awareness can be awkward, embarrassing, or even lethal.
     The recent security breach involving Olaf Scholz’s motorcade emphasizes the indispensable role that motorcades play in executive protection operations. They provide a secure and efficient means of transportation while maintaining a visible deterrent against potential threats. But even with these contingents in place, this incident serves as an eye-opening reminder of the ongoing need for reality-based training, stringent security protocols, and constant vigilance while protecting high-profile individuals.

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Confidentiality and Discretion for Celebrity Nannies

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In the world of celebrity and high-net-worth families, nannies play a vital role in providing care and support for their children. However, working in these exclusive environments requires an extra level of confidentiality and discretion. You are solely responsible for the lives and the wellbeing of these little ones, and by proxy, their parents and close family as well. As you may be aware of, or find out through a quick online search, there are many nannies who used to work for either celebrities or public families, who knew far too much, and who are ‘’spilling the beans” to any media or gossip tabloid that will listen.

During our Nannyguards classes, we place a huge emphasis on confidentiality and why nannies must respect and remain quiet in regards to what they see or hear. When working with celebrities, nannies are exposed to sensitive information about their employers, their personal traits, their secrets, their children, and their daily lives. Trust becomes an enormous factor in all of this and confidentiality is essential for nannies to build that trust and maintain professional, discreet relationships. The safeguarding of the privacy and security of the families they provide services for is an integral portion of their job description.

Celebrity families are constantly in the spotlight, facing media attention and being scrutinized at every turn. Nannies must be prepared to politely, but firmly, handle paparazzi, journalists, and gossip columns while keeping their employers’ personal lives confidential. Often, they may find these media or paparazzi making great offers or bribes (either for publicity or financially) in exchange for giving away important information about their clients’ daily lives. And some nannies will even try and reach out to the media, on their own, to tell a story in a very unprofessional attempt to bring attention to who they are or what they do.

For these reasons, it is very important for nanny agencies and clients both, to require that a comprehensive NDA is in place. These legal agreements outline every confidentiality expectation in order to protect both the family and the nanny. They establish clear boundaries and clearly explain the consequences for any breaches of confidentiality. An NDA is not just a piece of paper, it holds power, and nannies need to be aware of the legal obligations and potential consequences related to confidentiality breaches, not to mention the career destruction it will bring if these are breached. Understanding the legal framework surrounding the confidentiality required ensures that nannies are well-informed and can confidently navigate their roles.

Some nannies will give away information without meaning to do so. This is why nannies should always exercise caution when using social media, ensuring they do not compromise their employers’ privacy and/or give away critical information. Avoid sharing identifiable information about the family or posting pictures from the client’s estate, vehicles, or with their children at all times. Just because the client may say it’s allowed, you are the professional and you have increased knowledge of how this can be damaging and dangerous.

All nannies must always uphold a professional demeanor. They should refrain from discussing their employers or sharing private information with friends, family, or other individuals.

By consistently demonstrating their commitment to confidentiality and discretion, they will build trust with their employers, fostering long-term relationships and potential future opportunities. Working as a nanny for celebrity and high-net-worth families is a rewarding experience, but it comes with unique challenges and unwavering responsibilities. Confidentiality and discretion are integral in maintaining trust, preserving privacy, and ensuring a professional relationship between celebrity nannies and their employers. By understanding the importance of confidentiality, following best practices, and staying informed about legal considerations, nannies can navigate this specialized field with professionalism and integrity, providing exceptional care while upholding the privacy of their employers.

#nannyguards #nannysecurity #familyprotection #celebritynannies #nannyethics #professionalnannies #mannies #celebrityfamilies #publicfigures #nannyagency

When ”talk is (NOT) cheap” – Jennifer Aniston’s Bodyguard

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Talk, talk, talk talk, talk….A perfect example…The latest article that hit our inbox about a ‘’bodyguard’’ and his celebrity client, and one of the most hot and extensively discussed topic resurfaces….again…The importance of confidentiality and discretion in the realm of personal security.

We know, we know, this is a subject that never seems to die, but it never gets an opportunity to, because there is always some misguided individual that speaks too loudly or blogs too harshly. These two pillars – confidentiality and discretion – form the cornerstone of a robust professional relationship between a close protection agent and their client, maintaining not only privacy but also the mutual trust that is vital for efficient personal protection.

Confidentiality: Defined as the principle of keeping private information undisclosed, it is much more than just a professional guideline in the world of personal security. It is also a moral, legal, and ethical obligation we adhere to. It is a personal code by which the protection field is held together by. Without these two, there would be no trust on the part of the client, and our jobs would be difficult.

Celebrities, high-net-worth individuals, and other high-profile clients require a significant amount of protection due to their public status and the associated risks. As we all know, this then involves intimate access to personal, professional, and sometimes sensitive information. Unauthorized disclosure of such information can lead to unwarranted public scrutiny, potential threats, and even legal consequences. Therefore, these agents must adopt a watertight policy of confidentiality to ensure their client’s security and peace of mind is maintained and closely guarded.

Discretion, on the other hand, involves understanding when and where to act, maintaining a low profile, and keeping any observed details of the client’s life private. An agent’s role is not only about physical protection; it’s about being invisible until needed, blending into the background while always remaining vigilant. Clients have a right to lead their life without feeling surveilled, judged, or betrayed by their own protection team. A discreet agent ensures that their presence doesn’t intrude on their client’s personal life, yet they’re always ready to act when necessary.

As a wise man once told us…“Close enough they can nod if they need us…NEVER close enough that they feel the need to introduce us.” When a bodyguard breaches either of these two principles, it breaks down the trust that forms the cornerstone of the client-guard relationship. This cannot be permitted at any time. Trust is paramount in this line of work. Clients need to trust that their security will protect them AND their privacy. Once this trust is damaged or destroyed, it becomes challenging to rebuild and can compromise the safety and peace of mind of the client.

Read the full article here.

Redefining ‘Demand’: The Under-utilized Potential of Women in Executive Protection

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Today, I would like to touch on a topic that often causes angst, and indeed sparks controversy. Quite often, I hear the phrase ‘’Women in Executive Protection are in high demand’’, or ‘’We need more women in EP’’. But do we? Really? From my experience both in training and also placing female agents with clients and other companies (And I would love to hear your stories as well) we already have plenty of amazing female EP agents. There is no shortage of well-trained, experienced female EP agents. Yet, they often find themselves pigeonholed into entry-level roles or called upon only when a client requires protection for a significant other (woman) or child. Beyond these limited circumstances, the purported ‘demand’ for female agents tends to retreat into the background.

I remember the times when my involvement in EP was so restricted that I had to diversify into other security roles to maintain relevance in the industry, not to mention meet financial needs. As any professional in the field can attest, explaining to an HR representative why you’ve filled five different roles within a short period is an uphill battle. To them, all too common, it appears as though there is a track record of a lack of job retention or interest.

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Granted, the industry has evolved somewhat in recent years. We’ve seen a shift in clientele, with an increasing number of female entrepreneurs, CEOs, C-Suite executives, and celebrities requiring our services. This shift has resulted in a marginal increase in opportunities for female EP agents over the last 10-15 years. But let’s face it: the progress is still insufficient. In an era where we widely acknowledge that gender does not determine the quality of an EP agent, it’s disheartening to see so few females active, merely a token representation.

However, even today, we still see teams composed of 5 male agents and 1 female for the same female client. We hear the all too familiar stories of female EP agents rarely considered for EP job applications unless explicitly specified for the role. Those uttering “We need more female EP agents” are often the ones who hire women predominantly for entry-level positions or specific gender-based assignments. Despite the prevalence of extraordinary female agents in the field, their professional progression is often stymied.

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Being in the industry for quite some time, I have been blessed to know and work with some amazing female agents, who still today, aren’t allowed to progress within the industry. Many women have felt compelled to downplay their skills and qualifications, and water down their resumes, just to be considered for entry-level positions, often due to unspoken fears of intimidating their male counterparts or making them “uncomfortable”.

It’s a situation that begs the question: what are we doing for these women? How many female team leaders, program managers, and security directors do you know within the EP structures? How often are women hired outside the specific context of protecting a female or child? How many major security corporations truly treat female agents equitably? In a world that screams inclusion and diversity, these phrases sometimes appear to be mere buzzwords without genuine intention or action behind them. So, before we call for more women in EP, or make the claim that there’s “just not enough female agents available”, let’s ensure those who have been contributing to the industry for 5+ years receive equal opportunities for development and progression.

It’s disheartening to think of the budding professionals I might deter when they ask, “How does the market look for us ladies?” What else do all of you expect me to tell them? While I’m proud to be part of this industry, despite the struggles and obstacles, we must acknowledge that enduring difficulties in the past doesn’t necessitate their perpetuation. Change is not only possible, but also essential, and the time for it is now. Wake up, and look within the industry…They ARE here.

#femalebodyguards #womeninprotection #femaleexecutiveprotectionagents #femalesinprotection #womeninsecurity

Protective and Intelligence Solutions for Individuals, Families, and Corporations

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In a world where security threats are increasingly diverse and unpredictable, the need for comprehensive and tailored security solutions has never been more critical. At LeMareschal, we understand this need and have dedicated ourselves to providing top-tier personal security, family security, corporate security, and security consulting services to our clients.

Personal Security: Protecting What Matters Most

Personal security is not just about physical safety; it’s about peace of mind. Whether you’re a public figure, an executive, or an individual in need of protection, our team of highly trained professionals is ready to ensure your safety. We specialize in risk assessment, threat mitigation, and crisis management, offering a holistic approach to personal security that is both proactive and reactive.

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Family Security: Safeguarding Your Loved Ones

At LeMareschal, we understand that nothing is more important than the safety of your family. Our family security services are designed to provide comprehensive protection for your loved ones, whether at home or on the move. We offer personalized security plans, taking into account your family’s unique lifestyle and needs, to ensure their safety and peace of mind at all times. Our trained male and female bodyguards can protect your young children or teenagers. Trust LeMareschal to keep your family safe, because your family’s security is our highest priority.

Corporate Security: Protecting Your Business Assets

In the complex and dynamic world of business, security risks can emerge from any direction. At LeMareschal, we offer robust corporate security solutions designed to safeguard your organization’s people, assets, and reputation. From risk assessment and crisis management to physical security and cybersecurity, our comprehensive approach ensures that your business is protected from all potential threats. Trust LeMareschal to fortify your corporate security, because the safety and continuity of your business is our mission.

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The LeMareschal Difference

What sets our company apart in the crowded security services market? It’s our commitment to excellence, our comprehensive approach to security, and our team of seasoned professionals. Our team brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, ensuring that our clients receive the highest level of service. At LeMareschal we understand that each client is unique, with specific needs, wants, and concerns. That’s why we offer bespoke security solutions, tailored to the individual needs of each client. Whether you require personal or family protection, corporate security, or security consulting services, you can trust LeMareschal to deliver.

In an unpredictable world, LeMareschal stands as a beacon of security and reliability. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help enhance your security.

Intelligence and Threat Monitoring Services For Corporations and Security Companies

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At LeMareschal, we specialize in providing top-tier intelligence analysis, intelligence reports, threat monitoring, and social media monitoring and investigations. Our team of highly skilled analysts, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and cutting-edge methodologies, works tirelessly to deliver accurate, actionable intelligence tailored to your specific needs.

Here’s why our services will be an invaluable asset to your security company or organization:

👉 Unparalleled Expertise – Our team is comprised of seasoned intelligence professionals with extensive backgrounds in law enforcement, military intelligence, and private security. With years of experience in various domains, we possess the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle complex security challenges head-on.

👉 Proactive Threat Detection – Our intelligence analysis services go beyond merely reacting to incidents. We adopt a proactive approach by constantly monitoring open-source intelligence, analyzing patterns, and utilizing advanced algorithms to identify potential threats before they materialize. By staying one step ahead, we help you minimize risks and prevent security breaches.

📝 Customized Intelligence Reports – We understand that every client’s needs are unique. Our intelligence reports are meticulously tailored to your specific requirements, providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions. Whether you require in-depth threat assessments, competitor analysis, or geopolitical risk reports, we deliver concise, accurate, and timely intelligence to support your decision-making process.

💻 Comprehensive Monitoring Solutions – In today’s digital age, social media platforms, and online channels play a significant role in shaping events and influencing security landscapes. Our social media monitoring and investigations help you stay ahead of potential risks by identifying early warning signs, tracking trends, and monitoring relevant conversations. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, we sift through vast amounts of data to deliver actionable insights.

🔐 Confidentiality and Privacy – We understand the sensitive nature of intelligence analysis and take utmost care to maintain client confidentiality and privacy. Our team adheres to strict ethical guidelines and operates with the highest level of professionalism, ensuring that your sensitive information remains secure and always protected.

💲 Cost-Effective Solution – Investing in our intelligence analysis and monitoring services allows you to optimize your security resources. Instead of allocating valuable personnel and time to gather and analyze information, you can rely on our expertise to deliver comprehensive intelligence, freeing up your team to focus on strategic decision-making and operational execution.

☎ Contact us today to schedule a consultation and see how our services can transform your security operations.


#threatintelligence #intelligencesolutions #threatmonitoring #protectiveintelligence #osint #intelligencereports #intelligenceanalysis #socialmediamonitoring #socialmediainvestigations #competitoranalysis #geopoliticalreports #geoint

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10 Essential Tips Your Children Need To Know For Online Safety

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Parents! In today’s digital age, it’s crucial to equip our children with the knowledge and skills to stay safe online. Here are ten essential tips to teach your children, empowering them to navigate the digital world while protecting their well-being and giving you peace of mind!

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1) Keep all your personal information private: Never share your full name, address, phone number, school name, or other sensitive details online, especially with strangers. (Even friends you’ve made online can be ‘strangers’ because all you may have seen of them is a pic, and that can be faked.)

2) Create strong and unique passwords: Use passwords that are not easy to guess and avoid using the same password for multiple accounts. You can use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Randomly change them from time to time as well. Ask your parents to help you.

3) Think before sharing: Be cautious about what you share online, whether it’s text, photos, or videos. You must always consider the potential consequences and respect others’ privacy. (What you share online is potentially open to EVERYONE online, particularly in the hands of the wrong people!)

4) Be mindful of online ‘friends’: Be skeptical of online friendships and only connect with people you know in real life and trust. Do not share personal information or meet online friends in person without parental permission. (You never know who you might be ‘meeting’!)

5) Recognize and report cyberbullying: It is very important to treat others with respect online, and you should be treated respectfully as well. If you identify signs of cyberbullying, report the case to a trusted adult or authority figure.

6) Avoid suspicious links and downloads: Do not click on unfamiliar links, do not download files from unknown sources, or open email attachments from strangers. Such actions could lead to malware infections or identity theft. If you are unsure about links and files, ask your parents for help.

Click here to read the full article

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#nannyguards#childsafety#childprotection#kidssafety#familyprotection#feelsafe#keepingthemsafe#onlinesafety#childrenonlinesafety#cyberawareness#safefamilies#bodyguardsforkids#childrensbodyguards

The Crucial Role of Customer Care in Close Protection

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Executive protection agents play a pivotal role in safeguarding the lives, families, and reputations of ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNW), C-Suite executives, and celebrities. These prominent figures often lead very demanding lifestyles, and face unique security challenges due to their high-profile status, which necessitates the presence of professional protectors. To add to that, they have personal traits, unique preferences, and their day-to-day needs as well. While the primary responsibility of an executive protective team is to ensure the safety and well-being of their clients, it’s also essential for protective agents to adopt a customer care approach when working with these individuals.

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In the realm of protective agents who cater to these individuals, the need for a customer care approach cannot be overstated. To maintain the working relationship, provide for the requirements of the clients, and keep the contracts for employment, it requires a tedious balance of strict procedures and a “can do” customer service mentality. Unlike conventional security roles, protective agents working with this caliber of clientele must understand the unique demands and expectations of their clients, ensuring their safety while providing exceptional service.

One thing that we must clarify is the misconception and the belief that providing executive protective services with a customer care approach means that your efficiency as a security provider is low. No, taking into consideration client’s needs, wants and unique expectations doesn’t necessarily mean you are lowering your protective services. Knowing the balance between the two is the key. And the new or misled agent whose mantra is always, “That’s not security’s job” when asked to provide that “go the extra mile” service, will find themselves unemployed rapidly if they can’t adapt to the protection vs service matrix that is unique to each client. No two situations are the same.

Adopting a customer care approach means treating the client as a customer and providing them with excellent service, just like any other business. It involves listening to their needs and concerns, communicating clearly and effectively, and addressing any issues or challenges promptly and professionally. And always keep in mind, while providing care, there will be some circumstances to address when it comes to maintaining this care and yet not compromising the strict security protocols keeping the client, staff, or their family safe.

One critical aspect of a customer care approach (and executive protection services) is maintaining confidentiality. UHNW individuals, C-Suite executives, and celebrities often have personal traits and sensitive personal and professional information that they do not want to be disclosed publicly. Protective agents must be trusted to keep this information confidential and always protect their client’s privacy. With this trust comes an enormous amount of responsibility to use strict discretion and maintain the insulation of their private lives from scrutiny.

Protective agents must also be adaptable and flexible in their approach, as every client’s needs and preferences can differ greatly. For example, some clients may prefer a highly visible security presence, while others may prefer a more discreet approach. Some may require a high level of personal interaction, while others may prefer to keep their distance. Quite a number of corporate figures demand a nearly “hands-off” approach which requires that their security team understand the low profile, or “covert” EP model for their agents.

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Understanding the Customer Care Approach

Customer care refers to the practice of understanding and meeting the needs and expectations of your clients, focusing on their satisfaction and well-being. Traditionally, this approach has been associated with businesses and service industries, but it holds equal relevance in the realm of protective services. By adopting a customer care mindset, while not compromising the needed layers of security, a professional protective agent can provide personalized attention and support, enhancing the overall client experience. Executive protection service providers who adopt a customer care approach when working with this specific line of clientele can reap several benefits. By delivering personalized and exceptional service, executive protection companies (or agents) can enhance their reputation, attract new business opportunities, differentiate themselves from competitors, increase revenue, and foster long-term partnerships. In an industry where the combination of security protocol, trust, and satisfaction are paramount, prioritizing the client’s needs and preferences is key to success.

The unique demands of UHNW individuals, C-Suite executives, and celebrities

UHNW individuals, C-Suite executives, and celebrities are often subject to intense scrutiny, invasive media coverage, and potential threats from overzealous fans or even dangerous individuals. The nature of their very lives, such as corporate posture, public appearances, high-profile events, decision-making, or traveling, increases their vulnerability. Consequently, they require protective agents who not only ensure their physical safety but also understand the intricacies of their lifestyle, preferences, and privacy concerns and can adapt to their needs accordingly.

The importance of a customer care approach

Building Trust and Rapport: By adopting a customer care approach, protective agents can foster trust through open communication, empathy, and a genuine concern for the well-being and the daily life operations of their clients. This trust forms the foundation for effective protection and allows clients to feel comfortable and secure in their presence. And a professional agent also must understand the balance between “Friendly, not friends”. This mindset is sometimes the most difficult for new agents to fully understand and implement properly. Excellent customer service can be provided and their unique needs satisfied without losing perspective in the overall dynamic of “Employer vs employee”.

The need for tailored services to individual needs

Each client has unique requirements based on their personal circumstances, schedules, and preferences. By actively listening to and understanding their specific needs, protective agents can customize their services accordingly. Tailored executive protection services are necessary to address unique security threats, offer flexibility, minimize disruption, and build trust and confidence between the individual and the security team. An agent with a creative and “can do” mindset is a must. Every day may present challenges and we must rise to meet them with overall customer satisfaction in mind.

Managing Public Perception

UHNW individuals, C-Suite executives, and celebrities often rely on their public image for personal and professional success. One seemingly innocent blunder can do irreparable damage. Protective agents who adopt a customer care approach must do all they can to assist in managing public perception by ensuring privacy, coordinating with media teams, and handling public interactions with professionalism and discretion. “Perception is reality” is so true, particularly in today’s society. How the public views you rapidly becomes who you are, what you are, and they can be merciless. Any mistakes, no matter how little, are viewed quite critically, and repairing mistakes made takes time or may not be correctable at all. A professional protective agent must always stay ahead of possible damaging or embarrassing moments. Maintaining this type of proactive approach helps safeguard the client’s reputation and minimizes potential risks associated with public exposure.

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Anticipating and Mitigating Risks

Another aspect of a customer care approach is being proactive and anticipating the client’s needs. This means being attentive to their surroundings, identifying potential risks or threats, and taking appropriate measures to prevent them from happening. Executive protection agents with a strong focus on customer care prioritize the safety of individuals by diligently examining potential risks and adjusting their strategies accordingly. Through the acquisition of in-depth knowledge about their clients’ routines, preferences, and potential threats, these agents are able to proactively anticipate and effectively minimize risks. Many of these can be, and quite often are, the direct result of their clients’ specific lifestyle, protective needs, or selective wants. By employing this approach, an ever-conscious agent can create a secure and productive environment while minimizing any disruptions to their clients’ everyday activities.

Providing Emotional Support

Clients often face emotionally demanding circumstances stemming from heightened public attention, personal or professional setbacks, or security incidents. Emotional understanding and empathy are crucial at these times. Protective agents who embrace a customer care mindset go beyond physical protection by providing needed emotional support. They serve as trustworthy confidants, lending a compassionate ear and offering stability during difficult moments due to the trust and, and faith that the clients place in their agents.

In the realm of protective services for UHNW individuals, C-Suite executives, and celebrities, adopting a customer care approach is indispensable and can be considered part of your ‘risk mitigation’ approach. To provide effective protection, protective agents must be skilled in risk assessment, threat detection, conflict resolution etc., However, they must also possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to be able to establish and maintain a positive and trusting relationship with their clients. By prioritizing trust, tailoring services, managing public perception, mitigating risks, and providing emotional support, protective agents can deliver comprehensive and holistic protection to their clients. The customer care mindset fosters long-term relationships, enhances client satisfaction, and reinforces the vital role of protective agents in maintaining the well-being and security of UHNW individuals, C-Suite executives, and celebrities.

#executiveprotection #celebrityprotection #customercareinsecurity #familyprotection #corporatesecurity

Enhancing Household Safety: The Importance of Teaching Security Awareness to Household Personnel

LeMareschal

How many times throughout history has an entire army successfully protected their ruler from repeated assassinations, attacks from foreign armies, and attempted coups, only to have their leader be killed by a close and trusted aide?

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When a decision is made to provide security for a principal, (regardless of who makes the decision), the process eventually involves a professional security expert providing an overall assessment of risk and liability exposure and offering some thorough, upgraded plans for implementation using a combination of personnel, vehicles, technical equipment, etc. After a couple of weeks (Or sometimes longer) of planning, interviews, route studies, communications enhancements, and team coordination exercises, the new team is ready.

Every contingency is planned for, all the implementations in place, and once every family and household staff member investigated and interviewed, the principal is safe….Except for the gaping hole in the plan that somehow missed the maid’s addiction to gossip, or the butler’s gambling habits, or the house manager’s jealousy of anyone who is closer to the principal that he/she is. Additionally, the principal’s wife has never been coached on using caution when posting on social media, or the itinerary/ travel plans she discusses with her friends, and the nanny has no clue how to avoid exposure to risks in public or how to identify a suspicious person or environment.

Nobody considered the more reasonable expectation of teaching the family and staff to read the environment, recognize potential risks to the principal or household, avoid the risks, and properly communicate the conditions to the security team. Household personnel, including domestic helpers, babysitters, gardeners, and maintenance workers, play an integral role in our clients’ daily lives. And because of this close, or intimate, relationship that the family and household staff have, their innocent lack of security awareness can unknowingly expose their homes and loved ones to potential risks. By drawing attention to the numerous security threats faced by households today, we emphasize the need for comprehensive training programs.

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Highlighting common risks such as burglary, trespassing, identity theft, and medical emergencies, we can illustrate the potential consequences of negligence or ignorance. Attention-grabbing statistics, news headlines, and real-life examples can effectively emphasize the relevance of security awareness for household personnel. In 2008, we created Nannyguards because we saw the gap between the nannies of the UHNW families and their security teams, and we wanted to educate nannies in security and situational awareness. Over the years, the program has received so much attention and has been so effective that even principals and their spouses are attending the classes with members of their childcare staff.

Think it is too difficult or time-consuming to train the household personnel?

Ask yourself….Are you aware of how much of your principal’s information is available to family members, staff, friends, employees, clients, service people, and even social event attendees?

Valuable and sensitive information about the principal’s personal life, movement, business-related details, finances, health, and various other exposures are all at risk of disclosure by anyone who might benefit from doing so. Even the best security team can’t control all the exposure points, but a well-trained staff and supportive family can significantly lessen the risk of exposure. Comprehensive education is a must to recognize the signs of someone who, with the means and motivation, might take advantage of their knowledge of the principal.

Another important consideration is that, in many cases, the protective team or an individual Close Protection Operative is not part of the inner family dynamic and therefore required to live outside the principal’s home resulting in not only being out of reach but out of earshot of the domestic conversation.

Lastly, a maid, butler, cook, nanny, or driver can inadvertently sabotage an otherwise perfect security plan with the click of a mouse or the tap on an app of a cellphone. Social media enables the most innocent or mundane photograph or statement to compromise the principal’s safety or security. Photographs can show not only addresses, clothing styles, identifying tattoos, license plates, and habits but, through analysis of the image, can identify locations through geo-tag, and even times and dates of photographs. As you are becoming aware, proper vetting of the staff is only part of the security equation.

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Engaging the interest of household personnel is crucial in fostering a sense of responsibility towards security matters. By highlighting the positive impact their role can have on maintaining a safe household environment, we can motivate them to actively participate in security training initiatives. Nurturing a desire for security awareness training among household personnel involves emphasizing the valuable skills and knowledge they can acquire through such programs. By highlighting how training can enhance their competence and professionalism, we tap into their intrinsic motivation to excel in their roles. By illustrating scenarios where security awareness training could have prevented mishaps, criminal activities, or enabled quick, effective responses can help them recognize the importance of being prepared.

Establishing a structured training program that covers all the necessary security-related topics, such as access control, emergency response, surveillance systems, situational awareness, cybersecurity, etc., is crucial for household personnel. Quite often, they are blissfully unaware of the potential dangers and risks that they are surrounded by and merely need some clear instruction on the topics to become efficient.

The security of your clients’ homes and their loved ones relies not only on advanced technological systems and physical security teams (and RST) but also on the awareness and preparedness of household personnel. By investing in their security education and training, you can create a safer and more secure environment for your clients.

Looking for specialized security training for household personnel? Contact LeMareschal today!

#residentialsecurity #securityconsulting #householdemployees #securitytraining #familyprotection