Hiring a Private Investigator?

What Are the Risks of Hiring a Private Investigator?

Hiring a private investigator in the UK can be a crucial step in gathering information, resolving disputes, or ensuring peace of mind. However, there are significant risks involved if you choose the wrong investigator. From misleading claims to questionable practices, understanding these risks can help you make a more informed decision and avoid potential pitfalls.

Misleading Media Presence

• It’s not uncommon to see private investigators featured in news articles, but being in the media doesn’t automatically mean they are trustworthy or effective. In many cases, investigators who frequently appear in the media do so because they have agreed to publicity, not because they are the best in the business. Many reputable professionals avoid media exposure as they prefer to remain operationally discreet. Just because an investigator is often mentioned in articles or has “Featured In”, over the website, doesn’t guarantee quality – do your own due diligence and ask the right questions before hiring.

Memberships Do Not Equal Trustworthiness

• Many private investigators boast about their memberships in professional associations, such as the Association of British Investigators (ABI). While these memberships can sometimes indicate a commitment to industry standards, they are not a guarantee of trustworthiness. Memberships are often paid for, and joining an association does not automatically mean that the investigator or company is ethical or competent and some bad apples within the industry use this to rip customers off.  Having this association provides some sense of professionalism but be wary of claims that try to push such affiliations as a free pass to gain your trust. Always look deeper than just the badge on their website.

Misleading Claims About Licensing

• Some companies emphasise that they are licensed and suggest that only licensed investigators should be hired. However, in the UK, there is no specific licensing requirement for private investigators, which makes these claims misleading. Some companies may use this tactic to steer potential clients away from competitors. Be cautious if you see a company stressing their licensed status – either they are misinformed, or they are being intentionally deceptive.

False Claims About Office Locations

• It’s common to see private investigation firms claiming to have offices in multiple cities across the UK. While this can sound impressive, in many cases, these “offices” are nothing more than virtual addresses or spam listings on Google Maps. The companies might not have an actual presence on the ground in these locations, which can lead to higher costs when they subcontract the work to others. Always verify whether the investigator genuinely operates from the locations they claim.

Hidden Costs Due to Subcontracting

• One major risk when hiring a private investigator is hidden costs, particularly when companies subcontract work. Many firms claim to have agents in every town and city, but they often rely on an open network to hire subcontractors. This practice can lead to inflated pricing, as the primary firm has to add its margin to the costs, sometimes without even knowing the subcontractor’s competence.  Customers or Clients may be charged for two investigators when only one is deployed, simply because the firm is trying to maximise its profit. Be wary of pricing that seems unusually high, and ask directly about subcontracting practices.  Dion International Ltd are clear about our costs, you can find our free estimate tool and our private investigator costs page throughout the website.

Choosing the Cheapest Option

• Opting for the cheapest investigator or company may seem cost-effective when it comes to covert surveillance, but it’s often a shortcut to substandard work. Quality surveillance is an art, which requires skill and experience, particularly in remaining undetected and “invisible” during operations.  Anyone can sit in a street for hours or follow a subject and take pictures from a mobile phone, but it takes a true professional to be the “grey man”.  Low-cost options often mean cutting corners, lacking proper training, or inexperienced staff, and may lead to poor results. As the saying goes, “If you pay peanuts, you get monkeys.” Choose wisely and remember that professional service comes at a fair price.

Assumptions Based on Military or Police Backgrounds

• Many private investigators market themselves based on previous careers in the military or police, suggesting it makes them experts in surveillance. However, while such backgrounds may offer a solid foundation, they don’t guarantee skill in covert surveillance, which is highly specialised and requires training and experience. Effective covert surveillance demands discretion, adaptability, and an intuitive understanding of human behaviour – skills not everyone possesses, even with formal training. Verify an investigator’s specific experience in the type of investigation you require.

Handling of Counter-Surveillance

• Today, it’s not uncommon for individuals being followed to use counter-surveillance teams. Not all investigators are trained to handle this level of complexity, which requires advanced skill. Counter-surveillance is when a professional team is actively trying to detect hostile surveillance, often using natural tactics. A qualified investigator will know how to handle these situations, without drawing attention. Ensure the investigator you choose is well-versed in identifying counter-surveillance to avoid wasted time and resources.

Jack of All Trades, Master of None

• Some investigators market themselves as experts in a wide range of services, from surveillance and background checks to cyber forensics and personal injury fraud investigations. While it’s possible to be skilled in multiple areas, beware of firms that claim expertise in everything. This can often be a red flag that they may lack true specialisation in any area. It’s better to work with an investigator who is a specialist in the specific service you need, rather than a generalist who may not have deep knowledge in any particular field.

Dubious Online Reviews

• Reviews can be helpful, but a high number of reviews doesn’t always mean quality. In fact, unusually high numbers of positive reviews can be a sign that the reviews were purchased. This practice is more common than many realise, and a little due diligence can reveal patterns that suggest fake feedback. In the private investigation industry, it is unusual for companies to have thousands of reviews, so be cautious if you see unusually high numbers. Authentic feedback is often more detailed, varied, and balanced.

Tips for Choosing a Reliable Private Investigator

Ask About Their Experience and Specialisation

• Focus on their background and specific expertise relevant to your case. A reputable investigator will be able to demonstrate their skills and experience without making exaggerated claims.

Verify Their Credentials Independently

• Don’t just take their word for it. Verify any memberships, qualifications, and other claims independently, and check whether they are affiliated with recognised and respected organisations.

Check for Clear and Transparent Pricing

• Make sure you understand the pricing structure before committing to a service. Ask if they plan to subcontract the work, and if so, what that means for your costs.

Look for Authentic Reviews

• Instead of relying solely on glowing reviews on their website, look for reviews on independent platforms. Be cautious of overly positive or generic reviews and seek detailed feedback that provides genuine insight into the investigator’s work.

Request Relevant Case Examples

• Ask the investigator for examples of cases they’ve successfully handled in your area of need. While they’ll protect client confidentiality, experienced investigators should be able to provide general examples to demonstrate their approach and expertise. This can help you gauge their skills and suitability for your case.

Hiring a private investigator can be a critical decision, but it’s important to proceed with caution. Misleading claims, hidden costs, and exaggerated credentials can lead to disappointment and wasted money. By understanding the potential risks and knowing what to look for, you can make a more informed choice and ensure that you’re working with a professional who will handle your case with integrity and discretion.