Bodyguards are specially trained professionals, who give protection to persons against possible physical assaults, kidnapping or any situation harmful to the person. Normally celebrities, members of the royal family, highly recognised businesspersons, politicians, etc use the services of bodyguards or close protection officers. The duty of the body guards is to avoid possible physical attacks by opponents or over-enthusiastic fans (of TV, film or sports personalities).

The bodyguards, who are now identified as personal protection officers or close protection officers often check the venue before the person arrives to fully analyse the situation. They identify possible threatening situations. They also function as drivers for the protected persons and closely accompany them at open venues. The personal bodyguard or close protection officers have good driving skills and are trained to handle pressurizing situations in an efficient manner.

The bodyguard or close protection officers are generally strongly built men and women, always alert and effective in handling unruly behaviour from different quarters.