Sweep (and Keep) Away the Bugs.

Advances in technology have brought us a connected convenience we would not have imagined a handful of years ago. We can control almost anything from a simple app on our phone--or even just the sound of our voice. We can view security cameras remotely, open garage doors, turn lights on and off, and even control the temperatures in our homes when we are not there.

This convenience comes at a price, though. As with most new technology designed to add ease to our lives, there is always a way it can be exploited for someone else's gain. This higher level of connectivity provides an environment ripe for domestic spying in our homes and apartments. Oftentimes, it is perpetuated by those we trust or sometimes it is the person we never would have expected. Either way, our connected world provides opportunity to these individuals.

Here are a few ways to see those opportunities controlled, those individuals stopped, and your privacy restored: * Physical security is an absolute must. This should be on the top of any list meant to help people protect and secure their privacy and safety. When an individual wishing to plant a hidden camera or covert listening device has physical access to a space, the hard part of domestic spying is done.

Once an individual can move freely in and out of a house or apartment, that person is able to place and service any device. This could include readjusting camera views, changing memory cards, or swapping out batteries once they run out. If the individual in question is a family member, former spouse, or significant other, that person will have knowledge of the types of devices that are already in the residence, what areas are used most often for sensitive conversations, and places the target usually assumes are private.

At a bare minimum, change the locks on each point of entry into the house. The homeowner or apartment renter should know who has each and every key to those locks. Do not forget about garage doors. If there is a missing garage door opener, have the unit reprogrammed. Also, change the pin number on any keypad access to the garage door. The goal is to not allow anyone easy access with a key or pin number once they no longer are welcome in the residence.

Check the home or apartment for access points that may be uncommon. This could be basement doors and windows, fire escapes, and even skylights. Security cameras and alarm systems are very valuable tools when enhancing physical security. Knowing what is...