An undercover assignment takes meticulous planning and preparation, the threats are variable and will be specific to the task. Over the years we have been asked to protect a number of undercover journalists reporting on covert assignments, due to the sensitive nature of undercover reporting, ensuring we put the right person to the job is the key to success. There are various factors we would consider, as to what type of security advisor we would deploy on an undercover assignment. We start this process by understanding the editorial goals and what the journalist wants to achieve.
There are other factors which would dictate selecting the right advisor for the assignment such as the environment, characters, locations & compatibility with the journalist. There is no doubt when filming undercover there will be altering levels of risk depending on the subject, and the threat of being compromised is very real, this could also lead to long term threats to those involved.
We have a brains over brawn policy, tending to employ quick thinkers who are non imposing and keep a low profile. They have the ability communicate with a diverse range of people and build trust & rapport quickly. As a security advisor working with the media on undercover reports, acceptance of risk and the ability to remain calm and not overreact whilst under pressure is imperative.
A good security advisor can identify when the level of threat is changing and implement emergency plans which would have been articulated to the team prior to deploying. The team need to know how they will leave the assignment without raising suspicion by using code words or non verbal indicators or how and escape in an emergency knowing where they will meet and regroup.
A post assignment briefing is important, this will allow the team to make an assessment whether there will be any reprisals and can plan accordingly or identify and manage any traumatic experiences the team may have encountered. We have spent nearly two decades working with the media and have a sound understanding of you work and the problems you may encounter, if we can offer security support or safety advice for your covert reporting assignments, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Aj Vickers – Prime Media Safety
