What is a common tool used by private investigators for surveillance?

Video cameras are among the most common tools used by private investigators for surveillance due to their effectiveness in capturing visual evidence in various scenarios. They allow investigators to document activities, behaviors, and interactions discreetly, which can be crucial in cases such as infidelity investigations, worker's compensation claims, or background checks. The ability to record high-quality video footage helps in providing clear and convincing evidence that may be used in court or for report submission to clients.

While GPS trackers and metal detectors can also be utilized in particular investigative contexts, they serve different purposes. GPS trackers are specifically useful for tracking the location of individuals or vehicles, but they may not provide the comprehensive visual evidence that video cameras do. Fingerprint kits are generally employed for forensic analysis and are not a standard tool for surveillance, focusing instead on identifying individuals based on physical evidence left at a crime scene or location. This distinction highlights the utility of video cameras in gathering visual documentation necessary for many private investigation scenarios.