Showing posts with label international background checks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label international background checks. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
The Global Impact of South African Scams












If you ever thought that getting ripped off by your online date or by finding out that he or she was not who she claimed to be was a shock, prepare yourself for the new and improved scams!  Internet criminals are getting more creative all the time, and finding new ways to drain your bank account is what they do best.  One of the newest schemes in online scams involves death threats and blackmail, and they are highly effective in getting victims to cooperate.  Romance scams are reaching new levels, and law enforcement in Johannesburg say crime syndicates operated by illegal immigrants from Nigeria are leading the way in South Africa.  The growing fraud is causing serious harm to South Africa's reputation.

Despite being Africa's most advanced country, South Africa has been ranked among the highest risk in the world in this 2012 Cyber Crime Report, right after Russia and China. This country has become not only a focus of attacks, affecting local people with phishing and fake websites, but it is also a school for many others on the arts of scamming.  Illegal immigrants often come from West Africa for a better quality of life, and then create shop in South Africa, where they can apply Nigerian crime tactics from South Africa, where victims perceive less risk.  Nigerians are migrating all over the world in fact, conducting fraud from Malaysia, U.K. and even the U.S.  Although it is hard to account for losses, 2013 will see significantly higher losses as cyber-crime continues to grow at a rapid pace.

Online scams continue to be very lucrative for fraudsters. Millions of dollars from love scams are sent every month from the U.S., U.K. and Australia to Nigeria and Ghana. West Africa is the hot zone for cyber criminals, and it is the highest risk zone in the world.  The problem is, criminals are now exporting their activity and working with accomplices in other countries, so a Nigerian scam, for example, can now take place from the U.K. or South Africa, or nearly anywhere on the globe.  Most of the con artists continue to be the nice person you meet on an online date, who suddenly has financial trouble and needs help. But, some fraudsters have found that threatening can be a more effective way of getting what they want. Imagine how would you feel if you suddenly received a death threat or blackmail from someone you met online?  Ever do a video chat or send a nude photo?  This is the perfect blackmail, and criminals can threaten you that your entire family and co-workers will see the content if you don't pay.

Criminals are use online dating and social media sites as a means to obtaining your personal information. Once they have your name, address and information about your work and family, they can start with the threats, or even steal your identity if you share too much online. The less they know about you, the safer you are.  Investigators say a background check is your best protection.

The chances of death threats and blackmail to materialize are low, but the panic is greater than anything and people end up sending the money. If you are a user of online dating sites, there are a couple of things you can do. First, protect your personal information and share less. Do not share anything that may be used to harm you. Second, if you are getting serious about someone, verify you are not being a victim of a South Africa scam.  Contact a reputable investigation firm with experienced investigators in Cape Town or Johannesburg, so you know the person you're talking to is the real.


 A. Hathaway
© 2013 A Hathaway

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Tuesday, August 6, 2013
How to Find a Good International Private Investigator



Whether it's for business or pleasure, the demand for international private investigators is growing.  More companies, big and small, are doing business overseas with new business contacts, new companies, unknown connections and investors, and unverified websites.  That is where the opportunity is in many cases.  After all, with no risk there is no reward.  Online dating and social networks have also fueled the demand for professional private investigators around the world as internet users try to verify their online romance or friend they meet online.

International background checks are among the most sought after services provided by private investigator companies specializing in international cases. International investigators are those private investigation companies with offices or field investigators in multiple countries around the world, who can help you verify situations, people and businesses in other countries. 

In other words, international investigators are the private investigator solution for cases in foreign countries, for business and person reasons.  Services include background checks, due diligence, asset searches, surveillance, criminal cases, employment screening, and others.

Once you find a reputable professional to handle your case, the rest can be easy.  The trouble is how to find a good international investigator.  For clients needing due diligence on a company in China, West Africa, Russia or the Baltic region, it might not be easy to hire someone local.  There are language barriers and trusting someone you've never met on the other side of the world can be difficult.  Need surveillance on a girlfriend in the Philippines or Colombia?  Who can you trust to do the job?  Even a nice private investigator website isn't always a sign you can trust.

A good start would be searching Google for 'international private investigators' or 'international background checks' or 'international due diligence'.  You can also try an international private investigator directory and contact a few of them on the list to compare quotes and options.  Once you find some websites to compare, look for trust seals such as Truste, McAfee and the Better Business Bureau to be sure you're dealing with a legitimate website and company.  Check the contact us page to make sure the company has a real office and where they are located.

sk for references and search Google for the company name or investigator name to see what others are saying about the company.  See if the investigator is available for a phone call to discuss your case, and be sure the investigator has a team on the ground where you need them.

A Hathaway
© 2013 A Hathaway 


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Tuesday, April 30, 2013
International Background Checks to Avoid Internet Fraud














Spam and viruses have been around since the beginning of the internet, but the risk online in recent years has taken a new form and reached new levels.  Marketing companies offer unbelievable promotions to email databases sold by Hotmail, Google or Facebook, and companies often sell or share your information, or even track your internet activity without your knowledge or consent.  This the day and age of data, and companies and criminals will do whatever necessary to get your personal data.  It is valuable information, and in the hands of a criminal, very valuable.

John Wallace, Director of Background Checks at Wymoo® International explains that more clients around the world are realizing the risk.  Many have become victims or know someone who has been a victim of internet fraud or scams, and they want to avoid the costly expense and trouble. "Background check investigations are becoming a wise form of insurance, and more companies and individuals are taking advantage of the service prior to engaging in international relationships.”

Governments of frequently targeted countries like the U.S., Canada, U.K. and Australia are making a significant effort on preventing crime and educating their citizens regarding scams and fraud risk.  However, law enforcement and private investigators agree, that the risk is simply too great, and the warning signs often change.  Criminals change their tactics regularly to avoid detection, so internet users have to stay current and know what to watch out for.  The simple fact is that it’s not always possible to know if a person or company is real.  In many cases, especially international cases, it requires the skills, training and resources of a trained investigator to verify.

Romance scam cases are still high on the list of scam types, but investigators caution that fake companies, investments, and even home improvement scams are rising.  The simple fact is, criminals will create professional looking websites, send convincing emails, and try to get to know you on professional networking, social networking, online dating sites and even email.  Their goal is to get your information, steal your money, and leave you for the next victim.

Be safe online and remember to protect your private information.  For individuals and companies you’ve found on the internet, be sure to verify with a reputable investigation company.

Best of luck,

A. Hathaway
© 2013 A. Hathaway

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Wednesday, January 23, 2013
International Investigations Increase with Growing Fraud Risk












International investigations are growing in demand for both individuals and organizations. The internet is connecting business and individuals all over the world, with international job boards, hiring and social networking sites like Facebook and Linkedin, and online dating sites like Match.com and eHarmony, and thousands of others. Companies now look abroad if there are no qualified candidates in their home country, and job seekers are looking in several countries, and going wherever the best opportunity is. Investors are looking at the global market, and putting their money to work wherever profits seem possible. All of these new relationships are complicated by national borders, long distance, internet communications, and language and cultural barriers. Wymoo® is known as a leader in verifying these international relationships. By conducting international background checks and due diligence, private investigation companies can lower the risk for clients. It's prudent verification.

Because international private investigators are a relatively new field, few people seem to understand what they do, and who they are. A company spokesperson from one international investigation company said that they often get requests by Human Resource managers who want a "search" or a "check" on a person or company. The response of almost any professional private investigator is, "I'm sorry, what do you need exactly?" HR and business managers think that there is some magical global database that international background check companies can simply tap into. Many consumers think that you can "check" or "search" a subject in a foreign country or countries online for less than $100 USD, and get the results in minutes. False claims being made on the internet have led to this serious misconception, and nothing could be further from the truth.

Criminal records searches are only a small part of a real background check investigation. Bin Laden himself had no criminal record. Real risk mitigation and verification requires real investigation by professional investigators. There is no magical database online for verifying people and businesses, especially in the developing countries. If you're serious about lowering your risk, and if you're serious about verifying an individual or company in another country, you will need a trained investigator on the ground who has local contacts, speaks the same language, understands the culture, and can gather the evidence you need. Anyone claiming differently is a fraud, and is attempting to verify remotely via the phone or internet. This is negligent, and shouldn't be paid for.

Avoid Fraud. Hire Professionals

Fraud levels continue to rise, and victims of scams and fraud are learning the hard way that international investigations are an essential tool for managing the risk in international relationships. Stay skeptical and verify. Contact an investigation firm if needed.

Best of luck, 

A Hathaway
© 2013 A Hathaway


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Wednesday, May 16, 2012
U.K. Private Investigators See Internet Fraud Risk Growing

 

In the United Kingdom, 3.5 million people have been victims of fraud and scam over the internet and the average amount of money lost per person is £875.  Most of these scam victims were targeted when shopping online, phishing scams or online dating or romance scams.  Experts say the reported cases are far lower than the actual numbers, as most victims feel too ashamed to report the crime to authorities, and it is estimated that only 1 out of 5 victims report internet crimes to the police or government.  As a result, governments don’t know how serious the problem has become.  Private investigators, on the other hand, are overwhelmed with requests. While the government is considering internet security a top priority, the population still believes it is its own responsibility to stay safe while surfing or connecting online. Most users think they know the basics of internet safety to keep away from scams, but statistics indicate otherwise.

U.K. investigators confirm that one of the main reasons internet users are hacked is because of the careless attitude they have over their passwords, making accounts easy to hack. Bank and financial institutions report that there should be a co- responsibility between the institutions and the users, and some users claim that internet providers should also share responsibility for protecting consumers.  The blame and finger pointing goes around,  as no one wants to take the responsibility, and no one yet knows how to effectively deal with the growing problem.

Truth is that the same amount of precaution should be taken online just as when you walk to an ATM or the physical bank itself. You don’t share your PIN or account number with anyone, therefore online should be the same. And even some people believe they know the basics to be safe online while doing any transactions involving their finances and banking, there is a high number of users that cannot tell the difference between a bogus phishing email versus an official email.  And as criminals improve their methods, sometimes there is no way to be sure.

Bankers recommend that whenever you get a communication from any bank institution you are related with, to always verify if it is legitimate by calling the bank to confirm. Some cyber criminals send emails pretending to be a bank, charity or financial institution to get users account information very easily. In other cases, internet criminals may target victims on online dating sites and social networks, where internet users throw caution to the wind, and “share” everything that criminals need to steal your identity.  Consumers should guard their personal data, and keep it off the internet as much as possible.  The more personal data about you on the internet, the higher your risk.

U.K. private investigators recommend always verifying your contacts and relations whether over the internet or in person and to conduct international background checks to verify any person or business overseas.  The risk for fraud is growing, so stay vigilant and verify. 

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2012 A Hathaway

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Friday, April 20, 2012
How to Spot an Online Dating Scam



In these days of economic struggle, people look for new ways to find financial freedom and love to lessen the heavy burden. Most people believe that to look for love online is safer than to go out there and reach it in bars, movie theaters or just by getting out. Truth is, the internet offers more risk than looking for love the old fashion way. Scams and fraud are widespread.

Romance scams have cost victims millions of dollars since the online dating has gone mainstream. According to the division of Cyber Forensics at Scotland Yard over 55 million pounds were lost last year because of online dating frauds. But how can you avoid being a victim of dating scams? It takes some experience and awareness to spot a scammer. First thing should be to avoid any email, IM or Skype call from someone you don’t know, but if you are looking for love, you might be open to a request if you have posted a profile on Match.com, Facebook or similar site letting others know you’re available and looking. Among the honest folks, criminals too are looking.

Russian brides contact you by email and usually add a link to their profile’s hot pictures, pulling your strings of desire. When in Facebook or dating sites, emails of successful and handsome men and gorgeous women go in to your inbox. Once you have let them in, they tell you about their lives and gain your trust. Usually play the victim out of a failed marriage or have widowed and have children to look after. They are successful business people that happen to be related to the oil industry and end up always traveling to Nigeria, Ghana, the U.K., Malaysia or the Philippines. They’ve come on hard times and they need your help? Sound familiar? Scammers often share a common profile and once you’ve encountered one scammer, it can be good experience to avoid the next.

Experts says be aware that no site is immune from fraud. Even popular sites like Facebook, eHarmony, Match.com and ChristianSingles have no way of screening their members. You are out there with everyone, the good and the bad. Be careful about sharing private information online that could later be used against you. And NEVER send money to anyone overseas you haven’t met or had verified by a reputation private investigator. Dating background checks are effective and strongly recommended for any relationship begun online. Be safe and skeptical.

Even as consumers become more aware of the risks, criminals are also getting more sophisticated. Anyone can be a victim. Internet criminals don’t always ask directly for your money. They may just slowly gather information from you until they have enough to steal your identity, and drain your bank account. Victims can be left devastated, emotionally and financially. It’s a serious crime and romance scams are increasing worldwide. It’s up to you to be safe and verify.


Best of luck,

A Hathaway
 © 2012 A Hathaway

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Wednesday, April 11, 2012
UK Dating Scams a Serious Risk, Say London Investigators



According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the U.K. is the seventh strongest economy in the world and the third among the members of the European Union, just below Germany and France. Through the years the British nation has been home to millions of illegal from Spain, Turkey and other countries from Europe, and Africa. The U.K. is the capital of the financial markets for Europe in many respects, and a strong link for those countries and the NYSE in America.

Nest to the industrialized world, Britain has historically learnt to go with the flow and remains a powerful country despite wars, inflation, taxes, middle ground prime ministers, media scandals and beautiful duchesses. The Brits in some regards have had their guards down. During this time of lax enforcement and awareness, immigrants have all but taken over the country, and online scams and fraud have reached out of control levels. UK dating scams are among the worst.

With half of countries in the old continent succumbing to bad economies, the British are now a prime target for internet scammers operating in Eastern Europe in countries like Romania, the Ukraine and Russia. Not to mention Spain, the Philippines, Malaysia and West Africa. Criminals from all over the worlds are mixing in with honest British folks seeking romance online.

A report by the Serious Organized Crime Association (SOCA, U.K.), claims that one person out of 50 has been a victim of online dating scams in the U.K. Considering the large number of subscribers, this is an alarming number of victims. There were 592 reported cases in 2011 of online dating fraud in which victims’ lost from £5,000 to £24,900 each, on average, and yet, SOCA affirms that numbers are likely much higher as not all cases are reported to authorities.

London private investigators say fraudsters see the U.K. as a very profitable country for romance scams just after the U.S., Canada and Australia, and advise to conduct dating background checks to very new relationships online. Internet criminals and scammers are increasingly using complex tactics to target potential victims, and anyone can be a victim. It’s best to verify.

Romance over the internet is a fact of modern life, and whether it’s Match.com, eHarmony, ChristianSingles, Zoosk or Facebook or one of the countless other sites for online dating and social networking, UK private investigators say it’s important for consumers to know that no site is immune from fraud. Subscribers need to be skeptical and not reveal personal information. Experts strongly advise against providing personal data or payment to anyone overseas without first having the person or business verified by a reputable private investigation company.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2012 A Hathaway

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Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Nigeria Romance Scams - The Crime that Won't Die



Organized crime over the internet has taken millions of victims for millions of dollars, and the crime goes on largely unchecked.  With wide ranging levels of sophistication and scam tactics, it seems no one and no website is immune from internet scams and fraud.  Doctors, lawyer, professors and even police officers have reported being scam victims to Nigerian fraud, and as the criminals improve their methods, scam victims are actually increasing.  Although education and aware about fraud online has grown, the criminals are staying one step ahead.  It is the crime that won’t die.

Nigeria private investigators and law enforcement agencies including the FBI have warned internet users about the risk for Nigeria 419 fraud, romance scams, and business fraud that takes place via the internet.  With scam victims rising in number, embassies and government agencies are trying to get control of the situation, as West Africa police have had little impact in the criminal operations.

Women and senior citizens in developed countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the U.K. and the United States are the most targeted victims.  Scams can take the form of romance, business or investment, and both individuals and businesses are targeted.  Think you can’t be a victim?  Experts say in many Nigerian fraud cases, the word Nigeria is never even mentioned.  Criminals now have accomplices working in the U.K. and U.S., Spain and Malaysia.  They may have a London address, phone, accent, British passport and so on.  Detecting who is a fraud and who is real is becoming more difficult.  In many cases, only an experienced private investigator or investigation company can verify the information and get the evidence.

Profiles and information found over the internet is so easy to fake, it can be hard to know what is real information and what is false.  Sites like Facebook and Twitter, Linkedin and countless others, including Match.com and other romance sites, are great places for criminals to hunt for their victims, and post false profiles that attract their prey.  They may even contact you or your company directly, offering a professional and convincing business proposal or investment.  Many victims report they had no way to know.  Everything seemed legitimate, and then their money was gone.  In other cases the criminal is after only information, to be used for identity theft and other crime.

Experts say be very skeptical of profiles online that seem too good to be true, whether it’s business or personal.  Although there are many legitimate gold and oil deals occurring in West Africa, investigators say due to the high risk, it is essential to verify all people and businesses for any deal, offer or relationship in Africa pertaining to gold, mining or the oil and gas industry.

Private investigators at the most professional firms around the world advise internet users to be extremely careful, as they are not just talking about being brokenhearted, which is bad, but what is worse is losing everything you have worked so hard for: life savings, self esteem, a loyal wife or husband, your children, friends… and more.  International investigators have seen it all, and individuals and businesses are urged to verify first, and then decide if the relationship is worth pursuing.  Too often investigators see clients seek help after the damage has been done.  To be safe, proceed with caution and verify international relationships.  When communicating with companies or persons in West Africa, especially Nigeria, consult a professional for advice.  A professional private investigation company can lower your risk, and keep you safe.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2012 A Hathaway
 
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Friday, January 6, 2012
Private Investigators Reveal How Privacy is Violated by Social Networks



Before the end of the world came (according to the Mayan calendar), 2011 was known as the year of social networks. Facebook alone is considered the fourth country in the world just because its population of over 700 million users. Google has positioned itself as the most important search engine in the history of internet; considered a monopoly by most internet users in the land of free market and fair competition. There companies are the grapes of wrath for any marketing strategist craving for information and mega databases, the largest ever seen in history. What is Facebook and Google doing with all this information on its users? The answer is simple and obvious, both are using the information to profit, i.e. to make money of your private information. Both are tracking how and why you use the internet, what your habits are, and making big money.

Information is power. Search engines and social networks make your information easily accessible to just about anyone online, putting your face, photos, address, phone number, professional and education history, what you did last weekend, and more, all online for the world to see. The result? Evidence shows a sharp rise in identity theft, invasion of privacy, financial loss, home robberies and invasions, and in some cases, even rape and murder. In some cases, criminals will use social networks to see what your plans are, when you’re home, when you’re not. Criminals will search Google to find out your address, and Google maps to see what your home looks like, what the neighbors’ homes look like, and how they might break in. Co-workers are search online public records about how much your home is worth.

Google is tracking your every move online, and selling the information to well, no one really knows. The left leaning company has made it clear that it has a biased political agenda, and in some cases cooperated with big government to share private information on its users with the government. All of this can be done in the name of “national security” but you can be sure that Google is getting paid. Facebook says it is serious about protecting privacy of its users, but how can it be when using that information is precisely how the company makes money? Ads targeted to your likes, or your friends likes, who’s following who, etc? What you like or who you are is how the company and its affiliates target you with ads, and sell your information and preferences.

International private investigators warn that posting personal information on the internet is not a smart idea. No matter how safe the site appears to be, remember that information on the web can be used by anyone, for any reason, for good or bad. Think your page is private and can only be seen by your “friends”? Well, ask yourself if everyone on your list is truly a trusting and reliable close friend? The bottom line is that no website is 100% immune from fraud and scams, or theft of information. Major banks have account information stolen every year. Is your private information, photos and date of birth, name and address and more really that safe on Facebook?

Posting about a stupid thing you did last weekend can cost you a job opportunity, or even your current job, as Human Resource managers are now searching the internet about you.

Facebook keeps all its users’ information backed up in enormous servers in the U.S., Canada and Ireland, and though users are protected by each country’s laws and firewalls, all information is subject to hacking. If China can hijack American satellites, you can bet a group of criminals can access Facebook’s databases and servers. From posts, photographs, videos, comments, applications and acquaintances of their subscribers, even if they delete it or cancel their profiles, information is still there. What you post in Hi5, MySpace, Badoo, Friendster, Google+, Facebook or even Flickr, could later come back to haunt you.

Google+ exposes their users’ and their contacts every day by letting anyone know who you associate with. Even worse, Google maps exposes your address and location, and a photograph of your house and sometimes even your car. Thanks to them, cyber criminals not only get your email address and contact list, but learn who is your closest friend or even your child or spouse. When a criminal can quickly get your address and photo of your home online, and the approximate value of your home, and your daily habits and schedule, there is a high risk for crime and theft.

Professional private investigation agencies stress to be careful about posting personal information online because it is being used by social network sites for profit, without your knowledge. This violation of privacy is then made worse by search engines…

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2011 A Hathaway
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Thursday, December 22, 2011
Malaysia Background Checks Rising in Malaysia as Year Ends



Worldwide economic problems have made the Southeast Asia region one of the hottest spots for internet scams. Cyber crime in the zone has really gone farther than the previous 419 scams, or the Russian brides or even the romance scams in the Philippines. The problem is only getting worse, and as in most countries, law enforcement is struggling with the problem.

With a population close to 30 million people, a rather industrialized country, Malaysia still has major problems with transparency and the conflicting social nature of Islam to deal with. Muslim culture has made economic and liberal social advance difficult, where women still have less rights than men, and radical ideology continues to be a concern for possible Islamic terrorists. Even though the country has made some great advances for a Muslim country, many people are still struggling to pay their bills and had a good life. It is this slow industrialization that has made the Malaysian people wise with technology, and many of the computer savvy have turned to scamming for easy money. Malaysia criminals now use the internet as their hunting ground.

Malaysia private investigators have shared a list of the most popular scams you should be aware of when dealing with individuals or business from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Scams types change by the month, so it’s important to stay skeptical when dealing with anyone in Malaysia to avoid being a victim. Obviously not everyone from Malaysia is engaged in internet fraud, but some extra due diligence and skepticism can help keep you safe online, and not be a victim.

Malaysian scammers have discovered that good money is in Money transfers, phishing scams and charity email scams, business and investment scams, and romance scams on the internet. But in this holiday season people in developed countries should open their five senses and be extra careful. Malaysia scammers online are targeting English speakers from Canada, U.K., Australia and U.S. say Malaysia police in Kuala Lumpur. Popular Christmas season scams involve Free Xbox scams and other gimmicks to trick holiday shoppers on the internet.

Private investigators advise internet users to never provide any personal or banking information to any suspicious contact, especially in Malaysia. If involved in a personal relationship and the person asks you for your address, credit card number, phone number or social security number, do not provide it. This is a major red flag. If you have to send money, make sure you first have the company or individual verified with a professional international background check.

Both personal and business relationships from that region should be treated with a high dose of caution and skepticism. The alternative can be costly and a painful experience. Remember, many internet criminals and scammers operating online are professionals and they can portray or put forward a very believable story, business proposal or sales pitch. They can even provide authentic looking supporting documentation or identification. Be safe, verify and then decide.

It is better to conduct a background check or a due diligence early. Private investigators say most clients get a verification too late, once they have already been a victim. Consumers and businesses should think of verification services as a form of wise insurance.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2011 A Hathaway
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Tuesday, December 13, 2011
International Due Diligence Up After US - China Trade Talks



There are 7 billion people in the world today. Access to communication to any country is possible as long as you have an internet connection and a laptop or mobile devise. Overpopulation is now a fact of live, and we are all living closer and more connected than ever. More than ever, people can be up to date with information about anything and anyone, from family members to businesses and local matters impacting lives around the globe. The world has become one.

Since cybercrime and global business activity is rising, companies around the world are taking international due diligence more seriously and are engaging to services to lessen management risks as much as possible before moving forward in business around the world.

American companies used to trust one another as business ethics and people’s word was taken seriously. But what about other countries based in Latin America, China, Malaysia, Russia or even Africa? Business culture is completely different in other countries, and ethics and morals vary, depending the given country and company. In short, to remain profitable and protect your business and shareholders, no one can be trusted. Everyone should be verified and vetted.

Serious and visionary business people, most of them top executives interested in expanding into other markets are more interested in contracting an international private investigator to conduct due diligence on prospective business deals, foreign management, and international investments. In many cases, it simply isn’t possible for an in house team to verify a business in another country where the language, rule of law, culture and transparency is different. To properly hedge risk, a professional verification and due diligence service with a team on the ground is often required.

There are serious and good companies out there that are eager to help. There are also shortage of criminals claiming to be reputable companies, not to mention all the fake companies and fraudulent investments out there. Yes, China is booming. But how do you know the Chinese mining company you’re dealing with is legitimate? Or how do you know the supplier in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is as reputable as they claim? And how can you be sure a gold company is Ghana truly has the export capability that they are claiming? It’s a high risk game with high stakes. Insurance is advised and a professional can help you make an informed decision with international due diligence.

With the recent trade agreement efforts between the Obama Administration and China regarding a possible trade agreement, international investment and trade should continue to rise. As new start ups and relationships in China form, so too with the risk from fraud and scams.

China has become a powerful and strong economy, unfortunately despite the suffering and exploitation of its people. And it is going to be interesting how the U.S. will handle the manner Chinese entrepreneurs have to conduct business. For sure, it will be a challenge for both nations.

Business scams, advance fee fraud, stock markets scams and business fraud in general is a major problem in China and Southeast Asia. Verifying new contacts and companies is more important than ever. As China continues to develop, slowly, transparency should improve.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2011 A Hathaway
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UK Private Investigators Share Tips to Avoid Hacking Threat



The U.K. faces the first trial against the head of one of the most popular tabloids in Britain, Rupert Murdock and The News. Such a trail was never conducted before as press would always claim freedom of speech rights towards journalism. Not in this case, Murdock and The News went too far, as this case involves the newspaper paying hackers to help their reporters get the hottest front page coverage. The risk from hackers is a threat to everyone in society.

British actor Hugh Grant claimed during his appearance in court last Tuesday that not only the paper published very intimate information about politicians and show business people such as medical records or voice mail messages and private pictures of personal life scenes, but also even broke in the house of people and even sometimes put their lives in danger just to get a headline. But not only politicians or actors and actresses are threatened every day with hacking risks. In this era of information and internet, we all are exposed. Companies and individuals.

UK private investigator and Director or Background checks at Wymoo International, John Wallace, offers some tips about how we avoid the threat from internet hackers.

1. Some people are easy prey when it comes to hackers. Free anti- virus software in many cases is not enough, and many computer users at home and at work fail to recognize the warning signs. Good anti-virus software may slow your computer down, but the benefits outweigh the negative. Get a good anti-virus program, and keep it updated.

2. Avoid Outlook and Outlook Express email software, as it can be more vulnerable.

3. In your electronic devices like PC, laptop, mobiles; online email accounts and other services you use online, like banking, for example, DO NOT use the same password for all of them. Think of a good combination of letters and symbols and numbers. In addition, change your passwords frequently and keep them stored off your computer.

4. If banking or money transactions are made online, verify the site has SSL and is a secure website by having an https: URL. Check for the local on your browser. Use websites that are verified by trust marks like Trustee, MacAfee or the Better Business Bureau.

5. Never log into online banking or transmit sensitive data when using a public network such as a hotel, airport, or café. Select ‘public network’ and be aware of increased risk.

6. Malicious phishing sites often impersonate legitimate websites, in order to steal your credit card numbers, passwords and other personally identifying information. Be skeptical of unsolicited emails, or emails that look slightly unusual or contain strange links. If there is any doubt, never click on the link. Go to the website directly using your browser.

If you notice anything that does not add up, a new friend or business partner claiming things thatare too good to be true, or just have an uneasy feeling about someone, email or website or product online, be safe and consider an international background check which can be a valuable tool in mitigating risk, and verifying any unknown person or company online or offline.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2011 A Hathaway
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Video – See to Believe – The Need for Employment Screening

The recent Fox’s report about how Tower Defense and Aerospace employees behave during their lunch break hours has been shocking to many human resource departments and hiring agencies. Most CEO’s around America question what kind of hiring process could have allowed this. Well, the truth is Tower Defense had employee background checks in place, but this video demonstrates quite clearly that there’s a big difference between just checking criminal records, and actually investigating whether or not a candidate will be a valuable resource for a company.



Tower Defense Aerospace is a U.S. government contractor that builds combat vehicles and aircrafts for the U.S. Military that is sent to remote places like Afghanistan for the American troops to operate. But as the embedded video of the featured report by journalist Bob Wolchek shows, it seems some employees really should never have been hired in the first place. How could this happen? Proper employment background checks require a professional investigation firm in most cases to screen the risk, and verify a person’s background, not just checking public records.

These employees seemed to have been hired by the former administration of TDA and now, after the report, the current management claims to be conducting an investigation about employees drinking and smoking marijuana during their lunch break, clearly visible from company property. These people build the vehicles and aircraft that U.S. marines and soldiers use to keep America safe and free, a job that requires focus and concentration, not what we see here.

As a government contractor, these workers are paid by the American people’s hard earned tax dollars, at a time when the government and American people have no time or money to waste. This of course is just one example. Bad employees can be a serious risk, and can even bring a company down to ruin and bankruptcy, or worse, say criminal charges for management. The bottom line is that screening employee candidates is important, and it’s important to have the job done right. A prudent background check should cover past employment, education, credit and criminal records, address and document verification, character and reputation, etc.

Managers hiring in other countries or continents have even a greater duty to verify, given the high risk when hiring from a different country where culture, rule of law and language are different. International background checks are strongly advised for any foreign hires or domestic employees who have spent a considerable amount of time in a foreign country or countries.

Proper employment screening conducted on potential job candidates can save you a lot of trouble and headache. Is the candidate a sex offender, does he have a criminal record, does he or she have a good reputation at his previous employer? Did he actually earn his Master’s degree at Oxford? Is this person who he claims to be? In this day and age, you can’t take someone’s word for it unfortunately. There’s too much at stake. Be safe, interview, verify and hire.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2011 A Hathaway
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Friday, November 18, 2011
Philippines Background Checks More Important than Ever

  • 11/18/2011
  • 1


As the world’s economy keeps scaring people through a boomerang effect that began three years ago and some economist predict will last seven more, scams in the Philippines and the entire Asian region seem to be evolving. Criminals and internet scams are not cyclical, they in fact do quite well in an economic downturn. Business scams are often the highest volume in recessions, while romance scams and online dating scams seem to stay steady regardless of the economy. Given the ongoing uncertainly and trouble in the global economy, business fraud levels are very high, and the Philippines remains a high risk area, and for investigators considering conducting business or starting a new relationship in this island nation, a professional background check is key.

Philippine scammers are becoming more sophisticated and experienced criminals can be far more devastating than the average internet scammer. Criminal groups conducting online business fraud and scams can now be organized and highly effective, with management or bosses coordinating the scams even from other countries, such as Malaysia or Hong Kong. The NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) in Manila says business fraud is a greater risk than ever for foreign firms looking to invest in the Philippines and Malaysia. Joint law enforcement agencies between the two countries have had some success, but when one network gets shut down, another quickly rises.

Professional investigators say that Philippines background checks and due diligence is the key to avoid being a victim. Foreigners and international investors from other countries are targeted by criminals in Southeast Asia. Sophisticated and organized crime targets multinational corporations to small companies to individuals by using professional looking but fake websites, emails that seem to be from a reputable company but are in fact from another sender, and even referrals from sites like Linkedin and Twitter, and other online commerce and investing websites. Managers looking for opportunity abroad can easily be caught up in the scams, fake offers, and investment scams.

Law enforcement and private investigators say the trend is likely to continue to worsen in 2012, as the global economic situation shows little sign of improvement. American companies who have suffered from the socialist policies of the Barrack Hussein Obama administration are increasingly looking abroad to survive, where risk levels are higher, and the potential for fraud is a serious risk. For those companies that have no experience in due diligence and international background checks, it can be a dangerous game when screening Asia business opportunities. Be safe and verify. Talk to a professional international investigation firm about the risks and verification options. Both Wymoo® International, a leader in international private investigation, and Philippine PI™, a reputable investigation firm specializing in the Philippines and Asia, report that scam cases have risen in response to the economic downturn. Business leaders should consider company and individual verifications as a cost of doing business, and a prudent insurance policy.

Professional investigation firms in the Philippines like Philippine PI™ stress the need for real background checks to be performed by seasoned investigators with a proven track records in law enforcement, military or police training who can perform in situ and verify firms and people.

Trained Philippines investigators conducting background checks can verify information first hand by going to the sites or companies, obtaining discreet testimony and statements from informants, conducting on the ground research, covert surveillance, checking business registration and civil registries, immigration records, court documents and verifying company operations.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2011 A Hathaway

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International Private Investigators Ask is Your Online Bank Secure?











These days when everything costs more, and businesses and individuals are struggling to survive in the dismal economy, banks are fighting to attract business and automate their workflow to online services or online banking. Those banks who received bailout money from the Hussein Obama administration seem to be in even worse shape, and tax payer dollars appear to have been lost down the drain. In a no growth economic environment, and inflation surging in the United States and in most countries around the world, opportunity is hard to find. Banks are enticing customers with special deals and incentives to use their online banking. They say it’s efficient, fast and also allows the bank to save money with less overhead and employees. Start now they say. As millions start to use online banking, many security experts question the safety of the services.

People in the U.S. are facing a new and sad reality. Due to excessive spending and irresponsible fiscal policy in the United States, the country is facing a potential ruin. Current debt levels lead many economists around the world to forecast a very grim future for the U.S., a land overrun with illegal immigrants, mostly from Mexico and Latin America, as well as a general populace who is demographically, no longer American. The bloodline is fast disappearing, leaving behind only those who are in the U.S. to take, and care little about giving back. It’s not their country, after all.

International investigators say that choices of internet banks and online banking portals are growing rapidly to keep corporate costs down. Banks are doing everything they can to get customers to sign up and dedicated to their online software. This makes the banks more profitable when they don’t have to answer your phone calls. But, if banks are doing everything possible to automate banking and cut costs, experts and private investigators say it’s no surprise that budgets for security and anti-fraud technologies have stayed the same, or even been cut. You heard right. Just as millions and millions of customers start banking online is when banks have decreased their budget towards internet security, anti-fraud and other measures which can prevent identity theft and other online security risks. And, all this is taking place at a time when the risk for fraud and scams via the internet is at an all time high. Consumers are getting the short end of the stick.

Law enforcement and private investigators say it’s important for consumers to do their homework before joining any bank. Ask what type of security measures the bank has in place. Read the bank’s privacy policy on its website. Ask other customers and search the internet for any recent security problems the bank may have had. Ask the bank if they share or sell any of your private account information. Ask to have this in writing that your information will not be sold or shared. Many banks try to profit from your personal information, when they should be guarding it.

If your bank is based abroad, or you’re considering a sizeable international investment or financial transaction, experts say it’s wise to consider a professional international due diligence service to minimize your risk. Such investigations can verify banks, companies and representatives.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2011 A Hathaway

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