Private security officers are typically unarmed. They are not authorized to make arrests or enforce laws, but they can detain or escort individuals until police arrive on the scene. Private security officers may be armed with non-lethal weapons such as pepper spray and tasers.

The duties of public law enforcement are similar to those performed by private security, but they have a broader scope of authority due to the nature of their work. Public law enforcement agents are responsible for enforcing laws on large groups of people. They are expected to enforce laws fairly and without bias. They maintain order in situations where people may otherwise cause unrest. They protect people in danger, confiscate contraband, and investigate crimes to uncover evidence for prosecution.