A licensed security agency in Alberta receives an anonymous complaint alleging that one of its security guards, who holds a valid security guard licence, is regularly exceeding their authorized scope of duties by conducting unauthorized surveillance activities on private citizens without contractual obligation or legal justification. Under the Alberta Security Services and Investigators Act (SSIA), what is the most appropriate initial course of action for the agency to take regarding this complaint?

Question: A licensed security agency in Alberta receives an anonymous complaint alleging that one of its security guards, who holds a valid security guard licence, is regularly exceeding their authorized scope of duties by conducting unauthorized surveillance activities on private citizens without contractual obligation or legal justification. Under the Alberta Security Services and Investigators Act (SSIA), what is the most appropriate initial course of action for the agency to take regarding this complaint?

Answer options:

• Immediately suspend the security guard's employment and report the incident to the Registrar. ✅ Conduct a preliminary internal investigation to assess the credibility of the complaint before taking further action.
• Dismiss the complaint due to its anonymous nature, as it lacks verifiable evidence.
• Advise the complainant to directly report the matter to the local police service.

Correct answer: Conduct a preliminary internal investigation to assess the credibility of the complaint before taking further action.

Explanation: While serious, an anonymous complaint requires initial assessment. The SSIA and associated regulations imply agencies have a responsibility to ensure their guards operate within the law, and a preliminary internal investigation is reasonable to determine the complaint's credibility before escalating to formal reporting or disciplinary action.