Many people these days use spying methods on their cheating mates. But most of them are not aware that using spying equipment or surveillance services could be illegal. They could find themselves in real trouble unless they know the facts and the strict federal and state laws.

So you decide to buy some surveillanve equipment to spy on your cheating spouse.

Hidden cameras, listening devices or GPS tracking systems will allow you to monitor the activities of your spouse. Specific software installed in your spouse's computer could monitor your mate's online presence and activities. Hiring a detective to spy on your cheating spouse is another popular method.

It is not illegal to buy these products or services. But it may be illegal to use those products to spy on others without their knowledge. Especially if you hire someone to use the equipment on your behalf could be a violation of various wiretapping laws. These strict laws apply to electronic communications such as email or computer communications (chat rooms, instant messages), telephone calls etc.

If you plan to buy surveillance equipment from a store or online, you'll notice that most stores have disclaimers mentioning that the products must not be used for illegal activities. Most surveillance product manufacturers clearly state that their products should not be used in an illegal manner. These disclaimers also point out that the buyer is the only one responsible for the use of the products. So watch out!

What else may be illegal?

- If you call a company and pretend to be someone else in order to get access to phone records.
- If you hire a detective and he/she uses illegal methods to spy on your cheating spouse. It's your liability!
- Loging into websites with your spouse's username and password without his/her knowledge. (e.g. online banking account)

So is there a way to Spy your cheating spouse without having trouble with the law?

The answer is YES! There's really no need to use any kind of surveillance equipment or hire a private investigator. Use your own eyes and ears. Use your mind and knowledge of your spouse. I mean, it's your spouse! You should be able to tell if he/she behaves strangely or changes his/her habbits for no reason.

And what are the signs of a cheating spouse?

Men and women behave the same when they cheat on their spouse. The secret is to know what to look for. There are different types of extramarital affairs (Emotional, Cybersex, Same sex etc). And there are different types of "cheating signs" (Work habbits, everyday behavior, car and telephone and computer signs etc.)

Is the affair serious or just a game? How long has this been going on? These are some of the considerations you should make. For example an online affair with an unknown person is not that serious as if your spouse is meeting with someone in person every other day.