What is the primary function of surveillance in security?

Surveillance in security primarily serves the function of detecting unauthorized actions or threats. This involves continuously monitoring environments, individuals, and activities to prevent potential security breaches. By identifying suspicious behavior or actions in real time, security personnel can take immediate action to mitigate threats before they escalate into more serious incidents.

The role of surveillance goes beyond mere observation; it aims to create a safer environment by proactively addressing security concerns. This is vital in various settings, from public spaces to corporate environments, where timely detection of threats can significantly reduce risks to personnel and property.

While the other choices have relevance in some contexts, they do not encapsulate the primary purpose of surveillance within security. Collecting data for future reference, gathering evidence for legal cases, and monitoring employee productivity are more specific activities that might occur as a result of surveillance but do not represent the foundational goal of security surveillance itself.