Surveillance can be categorized as:

Surveillance is typically categorized based on how the monitoring is conducted, and the distinction between mobile and fixed surveillance is a key identifier of operational capabilities.

Mobile surveillance involves moving with or tracking subjects through various means, which allows for real-time updates and adjustments based on the subject's location and behavior. This type of surveillance is crucial for following subjects who may change locations often or engage in unpredictable actions, providing law enforcement with the flexibility needed during investigations.

Fixed surveillance, on the other hand, involves monitoring a specific location or point, usually without the ability to change position frequently. This method can be effective when there is a need to observe the activities of individuals or events in a defined area where movement may not be necessary, such as watching a suspected criminal's residence or a particular location of interest.

Understanding the differences between mobile and fixed surveillance is essential for investigators as each method serves unique purposes and is employed based on the context of the investigation or the behavior of the subjects being monitored.