Hiring a Private Investigator: How much does it cost?

Protect yourself from online scams - what to do if you've fallen victim

Physical Security Consulting – Protecting Business Reputation Background: The owner of a well-known restaurant and bar contacted me with concerns about the establishment’s reputation being damaged by the behavior of employees and patrons. He worried that unchecked incidents could lead to negative publicity, financial losses, and potential legal exposure. Process: To address these concerns, I conducted an in-depth physical security assessment using a structured security framework. This included direct on-site observations during peak hours and a review of existing security practices, staffing protocols, and policy documentation. During the assessment, I identified several areas of vulnerability: Inadequate surveillance coverage Lack of formal employee training on security awareness Outdated or incomplete security policies I provided tailored recommendations that included installing additional surveillance cameras, implementing employee security training programs, and developing a comprehensive written security policy. Takeaway: The restaurant owner adopted these measures, which strengthened both day-to-day operations and overall security posture . The improvements reduced the risk of negative incidents, safeguarded the establishment’s reputation, and ensured compliance with relevant regulations. By addressing weaknesses before they escalated, the business not only protected its assets but also created a safer environment for employees and patrons alike. Physical Security Consulting – Strengthening Corporate Environments Background: A mid-sized corporate client reached out with concerns about vulnerabilities in their office building that could expose them to theft, unauthorized access, or workplace safety issues. Company leadership wanted to ensure that employees, clients, and sensitive business information were adequately protected while also maintaining a professional environment. Process: I performed a comprehensive physical security assessment tailored to corporate operations. This included a review of access control systems, visitor management procedures, surveillance coverage, and emergency protocols . I also evaluated employee awareness of security practices and compliance with company policies. Key weaknesses identified included: Gaps in surveillance coverage across parking and entry points Inconsistent enforcement of visitor sign-in procedures Outdated access control measures and lack of employee refresher training I recommended targeted solutions such as upgraded surveillance and access systems, improved visitor management protocols, and the rollout of updated employee training on workplace security.  Takeaway: By implementing these recommendations, the client significantly reduced exposure to security risks while enhancing employee confidence and client trust. The measures not only helped protect physical assets and sensitive information but also demonstrated a proactive approach to workplace safety and regulatory compliance.

Background: A family law attorney contacted me after their client’s ex-spouse stopped making court-ordered financial payments. The attorney believed the subject was hiding income and assets, but had limited information to work with. The client needed to locate the individual’s current residence and financial holdings to pursue recovery. Process: I conducted a detailed investigation using a combination of public records searches, social media analysis, and property research . Through footprinting and cross-referencing, I discovered that the subject had shifted assets into a business under an associate’s name. I also identified a previously unknown out-of-state property by comparing real estate filings with geo-tagged social media photos. This information was further supported by vehicle registration data and satellite imagery, which confirmed the subject’s new residence. Takeaway: The attorney used my findings to petition the court for updated financial disclosures and asset freezes. The evidence of hidden property and income streams strengthened their case, ensuring the client could move forward with legal remedies. My investigation not only located the subject but also uncovered concealed assets critical to the litigation strategy.

Background Checks – Protecting Children in Custody Cases Background: A client contacted me with concerns about her children’s safety during visitation with her ex-spouse. She suspected that his new partner might have a criminal background and wanted to ensure her children would not be exposed to risky or illegal behavior while in their father’s care. Process: To address these concerns, I conducted a thorough background investigation and digital footprinting on the new partner and her close associates. This included searches of criminal court records, public filings, deep web sources, and social media activity . By cross-referencing information across multiple platforms, I was able to build a reliable picture of the individual’s history and current associations. Takeaway: The investigation revealed that the new partner did, in fact, have a criminal record, and one of her immediate family members also had an extensive criminal history. Armed with this information, my client and her attorney successfully petitioned to update the custody agreement, ensuring the children would not be exposed to the new partner during visitation. This case highlights how professional background checks go beyond a simple online search —they provide actionable intelligence that can be used to protect families, strengthen legal cases, and support important personal decisions. Background Checks – Due Diligence for Business Partnerships Background: A small business owner approached me before entering into a new partnership. While the prospective partner appeared credible and presented impressive financial claims, my client wanted reassurance that there were no hidden risks before finalizing the deal. Process: I conducted an in-depth background check and due diligence investigation , reviewing public records, corporate filings, litigation history, regulatory actions, and social media activity . I also searched deep web resources and professional databases to verify employment history and cross-check the partner’s financial claims. Takeaway: The investigation uncovered multiple civil lawsuits involving the prospective partner, including one for breach of contract, as well as unresolved tax liens. This information allowed my client to avoid entering into a potentially damaging business relationship. By investing in a thorough background investigation, the client protected both his finances and his company’s reputation.