@laomei_722:

pmichael :

The described behavior, while potentially within the scope of legally permissible recording from a public space, is widely considered provocative and can be perceived as dangerous or a security risk, particularly the part involving inquiries about the bank's vault.  Legality vs. Behavior Filming from Public Areas: Generally, individuals have a First Amendment right to film and photograph anything that is plainly visible from a public space (like a sidewalk or public street), even if it involves recording through a window into a private building. Entering Private Property: However, banks are private property, even in areas accessible to the public. Filming inside the bank, or refusing to leave when asked, can be considered trespassing. Asking Provocative Questions: Asking specific, sensitive questions about security measures, such as the bank's layout or the amount of money in the vault, is not illegal in itself if done from a public area, but it is highly unusual behavior that raises security concerns for bank staff and law enforcement.  Dangerous Behavior The behavior is considered by security professionals and bankers to be high-risk for the following reasons: Security Threat Indicators: Gathering intelligence on a bank's layout, operations, and cash on hand mirrors actions taken by individuals planning a robbery or other illicit activities. This behavior reasonably causes alarm. Disruption of Operations: While auditors may be legally present, if their actions are deemed unreasonably disruptive to the bank's operations or prevent other customers from being served, staff are within their rights to ask them to leave. Provocation: Many First Amendment auditors deliberately seek a confrontational reaction from employees or police to create viral video content for social media, which inherently escalates tension and can lead to unpredictable outcomes.  In summary, the actions push the boundaries of protected First Amendment activity and can be objectively interpreted as suspicious, potentially dangerous behavior that interferes with the safety and security protocols of a private financial institution. Bank staff are often trained to alert management or se