The New York Post recently published an article titled: Many CEOs don’t want bodyguards even after Brian Thompson murder — here’s what they’re doing instead.
In light of the tragic assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, this reluctance to adopt adequate security measures raises serious concerns. Let’s take a closer look at the points made in the article and address how these perceptions can be rethought.
1. “I don’t want to walk around with bodyguards.”
The article highlights that many executives resist the idea of bodyguards because they fear a
major lifestyle change. One executive stated: “Unless they’re ex-Mossad, they probably aren’t going to be that helpful.”
This sentiment reflects a misunderstanding of what elite private security can offer. Nobody wants security, but everyone needs to feel safe. Professional protection doesn’t have to mean intrusive bodyguards—it’s about tailored solutions that ensure safety while maintaining your privacy and lifestyle.
2. “It makes you more conspicuous.”
Another executive expressed concerns about bodyguards drawing unwanted attention, saying: “It makes you more conspicuous.” He explained that having visible security can feel like an invasion of personal moments, making it difficult to feel truly alone.
There’s truth in this concern—traditional, overt security measures can sometimes feel intrusive. However, it’s important to understand the responsibility that comes with being in a high-profile role. When you reach the position of CEO at one of your industry’s top companies, your situation has fundamentally changed. That doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice privacy, but it does mean security must be approached differently.
Modern solutions like Protective Surveillance offer discreet yet effective protection. Highly trained operatives monitor and safeguard you from the background, ensuring your safety without altering your day-to-day life or making you feel like you’re always being watched. This approach allows you to maintain normalcy while addressing the real risks associated with your position.
3. Taking security into their own hands
Sources who spoke on the condition of anonymity said they are more willing to increase safety measures by taking safety into their own hands. The article reports that some executives are opting for self-reliance, with measures like applying for concealed carry permits, buying pepper spray pistols (such as the Byrna gun, which advertises itself as a “less-lethal weapon”), or even wearing bulletproof vests.
One executive admitted: “Since Thompson’s murder, I’ve worn a bulletproof vest because I feel unsafe.” Another described becoming more vigilant of his surroundings, worried about being targeted by disgruntled shareholders.
Here’s the reality: if you believe there’s a real threat, including disgruntled shareholders, you need professional protection. Hostile actors often conduct surveillance to identify vulnerabilities, studying your routines and waiting for opportune moments to strike.
Carrying a weapon or wearing a vest won’t prevent someone from observing your daily patterns or identifying moments when you’re at your most vulnerable. Personal safety measures like these are reactive at best, whereas professional protection is proactive and preventative. Realistically, you need to think about how you are actually going to handle real-time threats while performing at a job and looking after your family.
The Threat of Hostile Surveillance
A key risk executives overlook is hostile surveillance—the deliberate and covert observation of a person, location, or organisation to gather information for malicious purposes. This is often a precursor to harmful activities, such as:
Theft
Kidnapping
Corporate espionage
Physical attacks
Hostile actors monitor behaviour, identify vulnerabilities, and plan their moves based on when a target is least protected. Without professional counter-surveillance measures, even vigilant individuals are unlikely to detect or neutralise these threats.
How confident are you that your current security measures would detect someone watching and waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike?
The Case for Protective Surveillance
For those seeking a balance between safety and normalcy, Protective Surveillance offers a highly effective solution.
What is Protective Surveillance? Protective surveillance involves a covert team of operatives who discreetly monitor and protect an individual, property, or organisation. It ensures safety without overtly visible security.
How It Works:
Discreet Operatives: Constant vigilance without being intrusive.
Behavioural Analysis: Detecting potential threats through subtle patterns.
Proactive Intervention: Neutralising threats before they escalate.
Who Benefits?
CEOs and Executives seeking low-visibility security.
High-Net-Worth Individuals wanting privacy alongside safety.
Families requiring protection without disrupting their routines.
Corporations safeguarding executives and sensitive assets.
Why VIS Protection Excels
At VIS Protection, we specialise in Protective Surveillance and excel at discreet, tailored solutions:
Elite Operatives
Our teams include ex-Military and Police veterans with extensive experience in high-risk environments.
Advanced Training
Experts in covert operations, threat detection, and situational awareness.
Global Expertise
Decades of experience managing security in diverse environments, from urban centres to high-conflict zones.
Discretion and Professionalism
We ensure your safety without disrupting your life.
Final Thoughts
The reluctance to embrace professional security, as highlighted in the New York Post, reflects a need for better understanding of modern protection services. With options like Protective Surveillance, CEOs can maintain their lifestyle while ensuring their safety and peace of mind.
If your safety is at risk, waiting for something to happen isn’t a solution. Be proactive, not reactive.
If you'd like to discuss any of our services, please contact us for a no obligation consultation.
Paul J., Founder of VIS Protection
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