Two weeks after Facebook launched its new application of video- chat, privacy specialists and private investigators are cautioning about the risks for children and youth on the social networking site. Experts say the video chat option on social networking sites like Facebook can be a valuable tool used by honest subscribers, but also a dangerous gateway for criminals to access your children. Philippines private investigators urge parents to be aware of the risk, and keep an eye on online activity.

Law enforcement and private detectives often warn consumers not to send money or to provide personal information over the internet. They say it’s a very bad idea to publish your birthday online, anywhere, and that publish simple things like your full name and date of birth and address is fast way to be a victim of crime like identity theft or even worse. Not to mention bank account information, passwords and other sensitive information. Match-making sites like Match.com and many others, including social networking sites simply have no way to screen the millions over users from locations around the globe. The criminals take advantage of this, and they go after easy targets.

Privacy advocates advise Facebook users to be very careful, review your contact list and do not click on suspicious links displayed in any social network service. Common scams include messages about one of your contacts being stranded some place, or in trouble. Another scam is supported by video chat, where you are able to hear or see your friend, obviously in a very bad video quality so you really won’t be able to really recognize him or her positively. Another one scam is receiving a video call or chat from a so called Facebook representative calling you from a hacked account of a friend or relative, to let contacts know their account is being compromised and contacts should be warned that they can fix this problem by paying Facebook technical support (with a credit card) and the problem will be solved, or the account will need to be closed, they say.

The new proximity of the video application provided by Facebook and Skype as a partner is a greater risk and an open door for teenagers and pre- teens. Philippines private detectives say adolescents are quite active in social media and usually chat from their 4G mobiles or get into video chat at night, alone in their rooms. Parents should be aware that their kids could be at serious risk, since adult criminals, including pedophiles, seek out relationships with such youngsters who do not understand the red flags and dangers behind the computer.

Teenagers use social networks and internet for more than just catching up with friends and doing their homework assignments. Sometimes kids accept strangers in their profiles as friends because they think he or she could be a neighbor or another school friend of a friend. Or, they just want more “friends” if you can call a Facebook contact that. The new Facebook video application is already causing some problems and complaints regarding the child safety from watchdog groups.

Privacy experts and investigators suggest:

- Supervise your children when they are online.
- Talk to your children about the risks they can face online, especially about strangers.
- Make sure your child’s account has a unique passwords with numbers and letters.
- Constantly update your privacy settings
- Leave profile information blank or restricted if you want, as this is the first information criminals and scammers check when hunting for victims.

Of course Facebook may claim it is the responsibility of the parents to allow their children to access this network, and wash their hands with that. After all, there is big money at stake. With Facebook now generating ad revenue with overpriced pay per click ads, the company is looking to cash in on all their loyal subscribers, and their subscribers’ children. The social media giant does include a short list of ways to stay safe while using video chat. However, the list falls short in explaining the real risks involved . (Facebook never says you can report the person to them, since you are responsible for who you accept as a “friend”). In short, be safe and skeptical. Experts say be sure your kids only video chat with people they know personally and trust.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2011 A Hathaway

Criminals Seeking Victims on Internet Dating Sites

These days it seems that everyone is online dating or using a social networking site. Sites like Match.com and Facebook have millions of members worldwide, and there are countless others. More people are connecting online, and finding relationships and romance on the internet than ever before. There are more than just honest people among the users, however. Each year the FBI receives more complaints about online dating scams, and 2010 was no exception. According to three FBI field offices contacted for this article, scams from online dating and social networking sites are booming. Philippines private detectives familiar with the cases estimate the scams are growing at a rate of 20 percent per year. Site members are advised to proceed with caution.

The economy in the Philippines continues to struggle, and the country remains a nation with high levels of corruption, and limit opportunity. Law enforcement agencies in the Philippines such as the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation), PNP (Philippines National Police) and other agencies stress they are already overwhelmed with criminal cases and investigations. Agents must prioritize their cases, and unfortunately, romance scams and online dating fraud usually fall close to last on the list. Making matters more complicated, it can be difficult and costly for a foreigner to file a criminal case in the Philippines. Because online dating site and other accounts are often opened using a false name, and money transfers can be picked up with a fake ID or by a criminal accomplice, such cases can be difficult to prosecute.

Many US, Canadian, UK and Australian victims ask why more can't be done to prevent these types of romance scams, marriage fraud, and other online dating scams. A lack of law and order is understandable in the Philippines, but many citizens in the developed world demand something to be done. Agents at a Florida FBI field office say it can be frustrating to hear of the damage done in these cases, and it's not easy to explain to victims that not much can be done. Prosecuting criminals across country borders is a difficult process, no matter what the crime. Scams and fraud via the internet are especially challenging, since in most cases, the identity and/or location of the criminal may be unknown. Philippines private investigators say never to send money to anyone who is not known personally, and be skeptical of anyone you have met via the internet. Never reveal your personal data, such as date of birth, credit card information, address, and other senstitive data to an individual over the internet.

Because prosecuting these criminals is such a difficult and time consuming process, law enforcement and private investigators agree, the safest bet is prevention. Be skeptical. Be aware of the high risk for dating scams and other fraud in the Philippines. Know that no internet dating or social networking website is immune from fraud and scams. There is simply no effective way to screen the millions of members, so there are criminals among the users. If you feel you have potential for a real relationship, get a Philippines background check with a professional and reputable investigation firm such as Philippine PI™. Experts warn the risk is too high to ignore, and extra caution is advised.

Best of luck,

A. Hathaway
© 2011 A. Hathaway

Philippines Investigators Report Increase in Scams






Philippine romance scams and relationship fraud is big business, and the recession hasn't had any impact on this industry. Private detectives and individual consumers report a sharp rise in scam and fraud in the Philippines compared to 2009, and this increase doesn't include the demand for other types of cases, including infidelity and pre-marital cases. Private investigators in the Philippines are in demand, because the risk for relationship fraud and infidelity is at high levels. The Philippines, apparently, has a long way to go in addressing the problem of internet related crime and scams, of which most are initiated via the Internet. Philippines private investigators are working overtime.

Most people in the Philippines are honest and decent people, but few argue the nation has its problems with exportation of women, internet scams and fraud, infidelity, and online dating scams. Many women search for a foreigner, or anyone who can send them money or take them out of the Philippines. In many cases, the husband or boyfriend of the Filipina is aware of the scam, and may even control the criminal operation. The scammer uses the emotions of the victim to accomplish the goal, which usually comes in the form of dollars or euros. Investigators and match-making websites agree, a Philippine background check is a wise choice and smart insurance policy. Many women may even marry or have serious relationships with a foreigner while they are married in the Philippines, to increase their family's income.

Investigators stress that fraud and scams reach all levels of Philippine society, including business scams and corporate fraud, and all kinds of advance fee fraud. But, internet dating scams appears to be the highest risk this year, with the majority of case loads by private investigators in Manila reporting infidelity or dating scams. Philippine PI™ maintains the largest team of professional investigators in the Philippines and is known for its quality service and reporting. The firm reported a "significant increase" in romance scams from 2009, and offers good advice on its website for selecting a Philippines private detective.

When involved in a relationship with a Filipina, investigators offer the following warning signs which normally indicate additional caution is advised, and a Philippines private investigator may be required. Be skeptical of overnight claims of love, emergencies or sudden illness, requests for financial assistance, model type photographs, problems with visa or passport, times or days when the subject is out of contact, etc. Be skeptical and realistic.

The Philippines is a great country with many potential rewards, great beaches and beautiful women. The risk here for fraud and scams is real, so be informed and proceed with caution.

Best of luck,

A. Hathaway
© 2010 A. Hathaway

Background Checks Rise with Dating Scams & Fraud

Private investigators in Manila and Cebu, Philippines report a surge in background check and surveillance cases due to a sharp rise in internet match-making, and online scams. Online dating websites report a similar rise in volume, as people seem to be looking beyond the global economic turmoil, and thinking more about their personal lives and romance. More people online dating in the Philippines means more scam cases.

According to the largest Philippines private investigator in Manila, clients are becoming more savvy and more aware of the risk for scams. Consumers are considering a background check or pre-marital check as an insurance policy, due to the high risk in the Philippines. This is a relief for many in the industry since clients have typically contracted a private investigator after the damage has been done, and the scam complete, or the money drained or stolen completely. Having the background check or pre-marital check earlier enables clients to be informed and minimize the risk for scams which are all too common.

Philippine background check services vary greatly in prices and professionalism. As a general rule, consumers should be skeptical of "companies" or investigators based in the Philippines. When possible, consumers should consider a U.S. or Europe based private investigation company with operations in the Philippines, such as Philippine PI, which is based in the United States but has professional field investigators on the ground throughout the Philippines. Going with a Western firm ensures a more professional investigation and a higher level of customer service in most cases. While it may mean slightly higher prices, most clients quickly find they get what they pay for in the Philippines. The risk for fraud is also a problem with businesses.

Industry observers stress that although there is a high risk for scams and fraud in the Philippines, and choosing a private investigator can be a difficult process, there are many rewards for doing business in the Philippines, and many meaningful and lasting relationships have been formed with Filipinas via the Internet. Due to the high risk, investigators and dating sites agree that it is wise decision to have relationships verified.

Best of luck,

A. Hathaway
© 2010 A. Hathaway

Philippines Detectives Working Overtime

Philippines private investigators are once again in high demand, as companies and consumers abroad with relationships in the Philippines try to avoid the high level of fraud and scams. Business fraud, infidelity and surveillance, and background checks are among the case types being requested by international clients in Manila and Cebu. It's unclear if the poor economy is entirely to blame. What is clear is that the level of scams and fraud in the Philippines is at an all time high. While this is bad news, this has been good business for Philippines private detectives.

Partly responsible for the high case loads of Philippines private detectives is the high percentage of Philippine women who meet foreign men via the Internet. The Philippines is well known for its online dating scams, and advance fee fraud cases involing Filipinas seeking financial gain. Although most Filipinas are honest and decent women, the scammers have certainly tarnished the country's image and the reputation of its beautiful women. Industry observes report that Philippine dating scams are at a record level, fueling the demand for private detectives.

Business fraud in the Philippines is also higher than in recent years. Case levels for due diligence and corporate fraud in Manila are nearly double what they were in 2007, according to one private investigation company in Makati. Companies are urged to request a background check or due diligence on any potential business partner in the Philippines. To avoid Philippine dating scams, consumers are advised not to send money for any reason, unless the subject is known very well personally or has been verified by a reputable professional private investigator.

The economic situation in the Philippines remains grim. Private investigators who have been in high demand due to the increase in fraud and scams have no doubt fared the crisis well. Insiders suggest the private investigation business in the Philippines should remain strong, and as the economy recovers, due diligence cases and pre-employment screenings should rebound. But, what will become of the scams and fraud is yet to be seen.

Best of luck,

A. Hathaway
© 2010 A. Hathaway

Choosing a Philippines Private Detective







These days, there appears to be plenty of demand for prudent and experienced private investigators in the Philippines. However, the supply situation is quite different. On the surface, there seems to be a large selection of private detectives offering services. A closer examination reveals that only a few of the "investigators" have any professional experience, and the number of real investigation companies is actually very small.

Philippines-based private investigators are often local citizens trying to earn a living. In other cases, the investigator may not even work the case, and simply steal the client of his or her hard earned money. Consumers in need of a private investigator for a background check, discreet investigation or surveillance are advised to avoid investigators based in the Philippines, especially those requiring payment by PayPal or Western Union. This usually indicates an individual, not a company, and could be a scam or amateur at best. Local one man operations lack experience and resources critical to an investigation.

Real Philippines private detectives should offer multiple forms of payment, including secure payment with a credit card via the company's secure website. Choosing a firm based in the U.S. or Canada but with operations in the Philippines ensures a higher level of service, on average. Selecting a local "investigator" may be cheap in the short run, but it's likely cheap for a reason.

Professional private investigations and Philippines background checks require professional investigators, and such services can be expensive.The largest private investigation firm with operations in the Philippines is now Philippine PI™, based in the U.S. but with a full team of field investigators and agents in the Philippines. Philippine PI™ is verified by Truste, McAfee and the U.S. Better Business Bureau. There are other investigators in the U.K. and Canada that operate in the Philippines, and they are also recommended over the local Joe. Remember any reputable firm should have references online and from previous clients.

Because of the high risk of business fraud, infidelity, as well as dating and relationship scams in the Philippines, hiring a private investigator is a prudent decision. Choosing a private investigator based on price alone, however, could be a costly error. Be safe with a trusted and professional detective agency.

Best of luck,

A. Hathaway
© 2006-2009 A. Hathaway

Private Detectives Investigate Scams










Online dating has boomed worldwide, and in the Philippines there is no exception. More and more women from the Philippines are seeking love and a new life abroad. To find their way out of poverty stricken Philippines, many women are opening accounts for online dating. It's no surprise that the level of dating scams are on the rise, and private investigators are quite busy.

Experienced Philippines detectives are accustomed to foreign clients seeking private investigation advice for a Filipina. In recent years, the level of complaints involving Philippines based investigators has skyrocketed, suggesting that not only is there a problem with Philippine women scamming, but now there is a problem with investigators scamming foreign clients.

The rise in fraud and romance scam cases has made finding a respectable Filipina more difficult than ever. To complicate matters, selecting a private investigator is now more difficult than ever. How did this happen? As the demand for investigations rose, many ameaturs tried to supply the market. The reality is few investigators in the Philippines are properly trained and financed to conduct a professional private investigation.

For those seeking a romantic relationship in the Philippines, as well as foreigners seeking investigation or background check assistance in the Philippines, extra caution is advised. Be very skeptical of both women and investigators who request money via Western Union. When seeking an investigator, we recommend reading the Philippines Investigator Advisory.

The global recession has hit Manila, Makati and Cebu hard and employment is scarce in the Philippines. As more women seek a way out, more individuals and so-called investigators are sure to try to join the market. Consumers should be skeptical of any "investigator" with no references, no professional website, and no proven track record of investigation.

Best of luck,

A. Hathaway
© 2006-2009 A. Hathaway

Sifting through the Investigators

The Philippines has seen a strong demand for background checks, surveillance and investigation. With more and more people dating online worldwide, and the high percentage of Filipinas looking to meet someone foreign, the demand is expected to continue rising. In addition to personal cases, business activity and foreign investment in the Philippines is rising as the country continues to develop and gain access to global and capital markets.














The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
The question for many companies and individuals with relations and or investment in the Philippines is, how can I select a prudent and professional private investigator? How can I determine who is the real investigation company, and who is the local with limited or even no professional experience?

To answer that question, we have reprinted the below information with permission from Philippine PI™, one of the most reputable Philippines Private Investigators operating in the Philippines. The Company's advisory is excellent advice for those considering a private investigation anywhere in the Philippines.

Investigator Advisory for the Philippines
Widespread fraud and corruption reaches all levels of Philippine society, including private investigators. There are many cases where clients seek investigation services or consultation from a so-called "professional" or "private investigator" in the Philippines, only to be scammed by the investigator. It is not uncommon for the local or amateur investigator to take the client's money, and in return provide unacceptable service, or even no service at all. With the high level of unemployment and poverty in the Philippines, many locals have tried to take advantage of foreigners seeking investigation services. Other locals sincerely attempt to do the investigative work, but simply are not qualified or properly trained to conduct the case.

What you should know:

1. If it's too cheap, it's probably too good to be true.If an investigator claims to offer a remarkable service, at a very low price, it's safe to assume you will get what you pay for. Real, professional and private investigation can be expensive.

2. Buyer beware of investigators that only accept Western Union.A reputable company or private investigator should have a website where the investigator accepts various forms of payment, including a secure site where you can pay by credit card.

3. Stear clear of investigators with no references.Prior to paying for an investigator, search the internet for references of the investigator or company. Chances are you can learn what others are saying about the company. If you can't find enough information on the internet, you might ask the investigator or company for a reference.

4. Be weary of any investigator who doesn't speak English.English is commonly spoken by the educated population in the Philippines. It is also necessary to conduct a proper investigation in the Philippines, since most people speak English in addition to their native language. An investigator who doesn't speak English fluently is unqualified.

5. Choose an investigator who is available to discuss your case over the phone.It can be hard to tell who you're dealing with over the internet, so check to see if your investigator is available over the phone. Often a brief phone conversation will allow you to ask important questions and determine if the investigator is right for you. It will also quickly show you what kind of service you can expect, since good customer service means being available for a phone call.

6. Avoid websites that look unprofessional.If the investigation company's website looks unprofessional, chances are, the services are also unprofessional. Insufficient budgets and training for development of the business, which can be detected when viewing the website, will likely be reflected in other areas as well, such as reports, surveillance equipment, vehicles, etc. Expect to pay more for quality service.

7. Look for privacy seals and secure websites.Since private investigation can involve sensitive information and details of a very private nature, look for an investigator with a website that displays privacy seals such as Truste. In additon, to be sure your information is safeguarded with adequate technology, check for additional seals such as McAfee security seals which ensure the website and your data is safe and secure.

8. Expect to pay a fair price.Professional private investigation can be expensive. Rather than trying to save a few dollars by choosing an unknown or unqualified firm, try to work with a reputable company about the best option for you, and if an investigation will likely provide you with the evidence you need. Too often choosing a cheap investigator means money down the drain, so choose carefully.

9. Ask if surveillance photos have time-date stamps.Surveillance photographs during any professional investigation should have time-date stamps on them. This is industry standard and this type of photographic evidence should be included in daily reports to clients. If for any reason the investigator does not offer this service, you know this is not a professional, but rather a local or amateur lacking the proper experience and equipment.

10. Choose a U.S., Canada or European managed company.Due to the high level of fraud and corruption throughout Philippine society, try to find and use an investigation company that is managed or owned by a U.S., Canadian or European company. This will ensure the company is managed according to stricter standards, and is held accountable for safer business practices and ethics of the United States, Canada or Western Europe.

11. Never use a "company" with no business address or phone number.Perhaps the easiest way to distinguish the real investigation firm from the local individual or shady operation is to check their contact us page. A real investigation company has a secure contact us page on their website, with a business address. In addition, a legitimate investigator will be happy to provide clients with a business telephone number where he or she can be reached. If any given investigator refuses to provide this information, it would be very wise to look elsewhere.

12. Buyer beware of any investigators who only accept PayPal.While PayPal is a legitimate and secure payment option, a red flag should be raised if this is the only way to pay your investigator via a credit card. A professional investigation firm should offer various forms of payment options, from wire transfer, PayPal, to submitting your credit or debit card data directly via their secure website. A website that only offers PayPal for credit card payments is almost always a clear indication that you are dealing with an individual and not a real company.

Best of luck,

A. Hathaway
© 2006-2009 A. Hathaway

Searching for the best Investigator

Private investigation in the Philippines is in large demand. The developing status of the Philippines and its high level of corruption creates the need to have both individuals and businesses verified. In addition to the macro-economic factor of fraud in the Philippines, the country is also known for its sizeable exportation of brides and relationship scams. Hiring a competent investigator is often essential in the Philippines. Choosing one, is often difficult. This article provides an overview.

Business practices in the Philippines are far from the quality of service that is offered by most American and European firms. There are exceptions, but this is simply a reality of a developing, poor nation. When searching for a reputable private investigation company, we strongly recommend choosing one that is based and managed by U.S., Canadian or European ownership. The result is often more qualified investigators, better customer service, more reliable reporting, and superior communication.

Beware of any so-called investigator in the Philippines who does 1) not have a professional website, 2) requests payment via Western Union or similar cash transfer, 3) is unable to write professional emails, or 4) cannot speak fluent and clear English over the phone. Also, if there are no positive references available for the investigator, and no mention of the person or company can be found on the internet, keep looking!

What to look for? Look for a professional firm that 1) is Western owned, 2) responds promptly with professional, well written emails, 3) is available for a phone conversation, 4) charges reaonable rates and accepts credit cards via a secure internet connection, 5) can provide at least one positive reference in the form of a former client, 6) has a professional website, and 7) has positive references about the firm on the internet. Specifically, one of our favorites and the leader in Philippines background checks continues to be Philippine PI.

Lastly, when shopping for a PI in the Philippines, beware of very low prices. These bargain prices can be tempting, but more often than not, it is money lost to a local criminal or person portraying himself to be a professional. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. The focus should be finding the most qualified service at a fair price. It's worth it every time.

Best of luck,

A. Hathaway
© 2006-2008 A. Hathaway