Abstract: A method for mutual monitoring of mobile network nodes of a network, wherein each network node continuously monitors the presence of neighboring network nodes of a certain group of network nodes, the particular network node checks whether it receives beacon data packets, which are sent from the neighboring network nodes at regular time intervals, from the neighboring network nodes over an interface. The relative proximity of the network nodes to each other is monitored without requiring a network infrastructure. The network comprising mobile network nodes is suitable for all applications in which spatial proximity between related members of a group is to be monitored, wherein the group members may be persons, animals or objects.