Bodyguard
Security person or persons assigned to protect an individual From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Security person or persons assigned to protect an individual From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A bodyguard (or close protection officer/operative) is a type of security guard, government law enforcement officer, or servicemember who protects an important person or group of people, such as high-ranking public officials, wealthy businesspeople, and celebrities, from harm. The personnel team that protects a VIP is often referred to as the VIP's security detail.
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Bodyguards with President Ronald Reagan moments before he was shot in March 1981 | |
| Occupation | |
|---|---|
| Names | Close protection officer, executive protection agent, personal protection specialist |
Occupation type | Government employment or private employment |
Activity sectors | Law enforcement, government, military, security |
| Description | |
Related jobs | Security guard, law enforcement officer, anti-terrorism specialist, intelligence officer |
Most important public figures, such as heads of state, heads of government, and governors are protected by a team of bodyguards from a government agency, security forces, or police forces. Less-important public figures, or those with lower risk profiles, may be accompanied by a single bodyguard who doubles as a driver.
Bodyguards have existed since ancient civilizations, with notable examples including the Roman Praetorian Guard, Persian Immortals, and the Janissaries of the Ottoman Empire. These roles have evolved into modern executive protection professionals, equipped with advanced technologies and training.
The term 'bodyguard' originates from the combination of 'body,' referring to the individual being protected, and 'guard,' signifying protection. While the term first appeared in English in the early 18th century, the concept predates the word by millennia.
The work of a bodyguard consists mainly of planning routes, pre-searching rooms and buildings where the client will be visiting, researching the backgrounds of people that will have contact with the client, searching vehicles, and escorting the client on their day-to-day activities.[1] In the event of an emergency, a bodyguard's priority will always be to evacuate their client, rather than engage with threats.[2]
Modern executive protection extends beyond physical protection to include risk assessment, secure transportation, and coordination with event organizers to maintain a secure environment during public or private functions.[3]
Throughout history, bodyguards have served pivotal roles in protecting rulers and influential figures. For instance:
The future of executive protection is increasingly influenced by technology. Advancements such as artificial intelligence (AI), drones for surveillance, and biometric access controls are transforming the field. Additionally, the growing prevalence of digital threats has integrated cybersecurity measures into protection strategies, including encrypted communication and online threat monitoring.[4]
Legal requirements for bodyguards vary by country. For instance, in the United States, bodyguards may require state-specific licensing to carry firearms. In Brazil, private security professionals must pass rigorous background checks and receive official authorization to operate. These regulations ensure both compliance with local laws and the safety of clients.[5]
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