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Injured workers in California often assume that filing a workers’ compensation claim is a straightforward process. But when insurance companies believe a claim may be exaggerated—or want to reduce the payout—they may resort to surveillance. This tactic is more common than most people realize, and it can seriously affect the outcome of a claim, especially when taken out of context.
If you’ve been injured at work and are receiving benefits, it’s essential to understand how surveillance works and what you can do to protect yourself. Here, our Whittier workers’ compensation attorneys explain.
Why Insurance Companies Use Surveillance in California Workers’ Compensation Cases
Insurance companies are in the business of minimizing financial exposure. When an employee is out of work and receiving medical treatment and disability benefits, the insurer may question whether the injuries are as severe as reported. To justify terminating or reducing benefits, they often hire private investigators to surveil the injured worker.
Common justifications for launching surveillance include:
- Claims involving soft tissue or chronic pain injuries.
- Workers who have filed for long-term or permanent disability.
- Reports of limited mobility or inability to perform basic tasks.
- Suspected inconsistencies in medical records or depositions.
Surveillance is often used to discredit the worker’s report of their condition or doubt the claim’s legitimacy, even if the worker has done nothing wrong.
Types of Surveillance Used Against California Workers
Surveillance doesn’t always mean someone is following you with a camera, though that can happen. Today’s tactics can be surprisingly invasive and high-tech.
These include:
- Video surveillance near your home, in public spaces, or while you run errands.
- Social media monitoring, including posts, photos, tags, and comments.
- Online investigations into your habits, hobbies, and physical activity.
- Interviews with neighbors, friends, or coworkers to gather character information.
Even seemingly mundane actions—like carrying groceries or walking your dog—can be used to challenge your stated limitations. However, these moments are often taken out of context and presented in a misleading way.
How to Protect Yourself If You Suspect You’re Being Watched
If you’re receiving workers’ compensation benefits, assume that your actions may be observed at any time.
This doesn’t mean you should live in fear or change your routine, but you should:
- Follow all medical advice and restrictions—never exceed your doctor’s instructions.
- Be truthful and consistent in all statements, medical records, and legal proceedings.
- Avoid posting on social media, especially photos or videos that could be misinterpreted.
- Let your attorney know if you suspect surveillance is taking place.
Most importantly, don’t be intimidated. Surveillance does not prove fraud on its own. When appropriately handled, it can be neutralized or even challenged as invasive or misleading.
How Our California Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Can Help
At Hanning & Sacchetto, LLP, we’ve seen countless surveillance attempts used unfairly against injured workers. We know how to counter these tactics, defend your rights, and ensure that one moment caught on video doesn’t ruin your entire claim.
If you believe you’re being watched—or if your benefits have been threatened—contact our experienced Los Angeles County workers’ compensation attorneys at (562) 280-2095 or online today for a free consultation. Let us protect your claim and fight for the benefits you deserve.