Caught in the Act The spread of surveillance devices in cities, on highways, and even in our homes is enough to make anyone paranoid. There’s a strong chance that you’re being monitored in some manner whenever you drive down the highway or through an intersection, use an ATM, or even when you knock on a neighbor’s door. Not all monitoring is legal: Individuals aren’t supposed to place listening devices or cameras where they can monitor unsuspecting individuals, and home systems can’t monitor neighboring properties. Federal law allows the use of spy cameras in the workplace, but they can’t be used where there’s an expectation of privacy, such as restrooms or locker rooms. All 50 states allow the use of video-only home “nanny cams” to ensure the safety of children and prevent theft. Compact cameras are available that can be located on a bookshelf or that are incorporated into innocent-looking devices, …