Showing posts with label hire a private investigator. Show all posts
Showing posts with label hire a private investigator. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Romania Romance a Dangerous Game, Say Investigators












Romania is known worldwide for its beautiful women and enticing culture.  For many people it is where they find something that can change their lives forever - love.  Romania in recent years has emerged onto the international market like never before, thanks to online dating and social media.  While the economy has struggled to recover in Romania, many young women (and scammers) are finding a way out to a better life, and the internet makes it easy to meet foreigners.

Meeting people online is popular because it makes dating simple, but it is also a dangerous game, say investigators.  The current economic situation is one of the reasons why law enforcement is seeing a growing trend in dating scams that take place from Romania.  There have been many victims in the U.K. and in the U.S., and now dating background checks are growing in popularity as a valuable tool to help minimize the risk.  The slow economy has had devastating effects, causing a lot of struggling for many people. In this kind of scenario, you can count on a criminality rise.

Dating investigation services can help clients verify if the person who they are dealing with is who he or she claims to be.  There is no shortage of honest and beautiful women seeking real romance in Romania with foreigners, but the scammers and gold diggers are often hard to detect.

Social networks and major online dating sites have millions of subscribers, and have no effective way to screen and verify all their users.  That's not their business, and they simply are not capable of such an enormous task.  It's the job of users to be skeptical and know the warning signs, and to get a dating background check when needed, to lower your risk and be safe online.

It doesn´t really matter which site you might be visiting, the fact that your relationship is taking place online is already a risk. Keep in mind that there are no fraud free dating sites. Should you stop meeting people online? Probably not.  But you do need to be careful about it and watch out for red flags.  Even though law enforcement agencies are working on reduce the crime, the fact is that the cases are growing and so far law enforcement has had no way to shut these people down.

Once your money has been stolen there is not much you can do, except for filing a crime report. However, you won´t get your money back and chances are your case won't even be looked at by anyone.  You will simply become part of another database!   Be smart and be skeptical of all online profiles.  Consider a dating background check to protect yourself and verify your partner.

So before you get engaged in any kind of relationship with emotional or financial investment, think twice. If there is any doubt, remember it is better to be careful, than to be a victim.

A Hathaway
© 2013 A Hathaway


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Thursday, February 9, 2012
UK Private Investigators Advise Caution in Social Networks



Mark Zuckerberg and his billion dollar company is going public and soon investors around the world will be able to buy shares of one of the most successful internet companies.  If you have a Facebook profile, did you know that your information is being sold along with that IPO?  That’s right, by sharing all that private information, Facebook has sold everything they know about you to third parties, companies, advertisers and other unknown buyers.  You are for sale, and Facebook and other social networking sites want you to share all the information you can!

There are over 750 million users who have helped Mr. Zuckerberg earn more money than most people can dream of.  His secret, using your private information without your knowledge, and then selling that information for the highest price possible, to as many buyers as possible.  And Facebook is not alone (although Google and Facebook rank the worst in violating user’s privacy).  What you share on the internet, and even your searching online is being watched. 

If a person and his company getting super rich thanks to all your sharing of personal information on his website without offering you any reward for your valuable information isn’t enough reason for you to think twice about Facebook, perhaps you should pay attention to all the risks involved in all this sharing.  Law enforcement and UK private investigators say increasing numbers of crimes are being committed by using information found on the internet, and users of social networking sites such as Linkedin, Facebook and countless others are prime hunting grounds for criminals.  All that you share is not private, even if you think it is only seen by your friends.  The information is being sold and shared, and Big Brother is watching you.  Google and Facebook are busy compiling extensive information about you, so you can be sold to companies and advertisers.

Facebook violates your privacy right and that is a crime, according to the U.S. constitution (4rth Amendment). With its new application Timeline, Facebook makes more public information you posted since the first day you joined the network, and that includes thoughts, shares, pictures and comments you did in other friends’ profiles. That is a risk even if you are trying to find a better job or you just changed your political or religious views from those you had 2 or 4 years ago.

Posting employment and education information online, and your date of birth, full name, etc is  a fast way to be a victim of identity theft.  Think your full name and age on the internet is safe to publish?  Think again.  Sites that blatantly publish your private data without your consent such as PeopleFinders, Intelius, MyLife and Spokeo make it easy for criminals and others to find your information, including your siblings, date of birth and address.  Google Maps and other sites even put a picture of your home on the internet, so criminals know how to get there.

Most of the people accessing your information on the internet are probably law abiding citizens,  But, mixed in with them are cyber criminals, rapists, pedophiles, business frauds and con artists, romance scammers and even murderers around the world.  Social networking sites are the choice among criminals to learn about you, stalk you, and gather information to steal your identity, money or even cause you or your family physical harm.  Be safe, think twice when posting on social networking sites and remember, your private information is valuable – guard it.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2012 A Hathaway
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International Private Investigators Discuss the Importance of Privacy



Privacy is a right in most cases, but is also a responsibility for individuals and business to protect.  Private information is valuable and sought after by criminals and unscrupulous companies that want your information for marketing and other reasons.  Private information is anything that can identify a person: name, address, phone number, social security number, photographs, medical records, bank information, services you use, preferred spots to travel and even the airlines you use to get there, etc.  People often take their privacy for granted when using the internet and social networking sites, but the issue is becoming more important than ever.  Ignoring the risk and not protecting your private information can be a costly learning experience.  The privacy battle has begun.

Under the motto of “sharing” online, many consumers and business are finding out the real world risks of putting your moments and personal information on the internet for the world to see.  Even if you think you only share with your friends, privacy experts say your information often ends up in the wrong hands, visible to internet criminals, or at the very least, being sold by Facebook and other sites to profit from your personal information.  They are in business to profit from you.  The more you share, the more they share about you, and you information is sold on down the river.

Scammers have found that social networks are a great source of information to learn about a potential target.  Often they find what they need to get started in identity theft or a romance scam or fraudulent business proposal.  All that information on Facebook, Goolge and Linkedin is now a criminals first choice in learning about you, your schedule, your location, and what you like and don’t like.  Add in other sites that violate your privacy and distribute your personal information such as MyLife, Peoplefinders and Spokeo, and criminals can even get directions to your home, get a photo of your home, and find out who your family members are.  Co-workers can find out if your approximate net worth by viewing your home, and police say in increasingly murder victims, rape and internet scams are committed based on information obtained from such websites.

Remember that what you post online is not private, and may end up in the wrong hands.  Companies like Facebook and Google profit from taking and selling your personal information, so don’t be fooled.  Now, with the new architecture of Timeline in Facebook, fraudsters get a very good idea about your life for the past six years and up to date. Using Timeline, scammers will determine if you are a worthwhile target. The approach is very simple: most people join social networks to meet people with similar likes and to be friends, many join to find that special someone. Scammers have a market of over 750 million targets and are patient enough study your profile.

Google goes far beyond Facebook. With the map and location service they offer, they put the safety and privacy of everyone in danger.  Google maps can show your home, your car and even your 6 year old daughter playing in front of your home.  Criminals take full advantage of this service, and combined with sites like Facebook, you are a walking target with little to no privacy.

International private investigators say many of the crimes committed involve the internet, and criminals from scam artists to rapists and murderers use the information online to learn about you, and use the information to their advantage.  The less information about you on the internet, the safer you and your family are.  Think twice about sharing, and protect your privacy.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2012 A Hathaway
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Friday, January 13, 2012
Private Investigators Say Internet Violating the Right of Privacy



The internet represents a serious and growing risk for users and their private information. The issue is becoming so serious that the media and the Federal Trade Commission have recently investigated the actual vulnerability of user profiles on Facebook and other social networking sites. Users now post private information online and share information with their “friends” that can quickly lead to identity theft and even robbery, rape and murder. Cases are popping up all over the U.S. where criminals used information found online, or on a social networking website to gather info on their victim, and then use that victim to stalk, rob or otherwise cause harm to their victim. In other cases, information found online is exactly what scammers and criminals need to steal your identity. Make no mistake, the internet is becoming more dangerous, and privacy is losing.

Facebook and Google+ have come under scrutiny of privacy advocates, and for good reason. The social networking sites don’t do enough to protect their users, say many. And even if privacy controls are available, many subscribers don’t know how to implement the changes.

And it’s not just social networking sites where your information is being spread and accessed without your authorization or knowledge. People search sites, websites such as Intelius, Spokeo and Mylife and others are profiting a great deal by accessing public records, and then publishing your private information, such as date of birth, address, criminal records, and even a photo of your house and value of your home on the internet. Google Earth shows a photo of your home, so criminals can see where you live, and how they can get it. All this information combined on the internet means your privacy is gone, violated and published for the world to see.

This violation of privacy puts you at risk for identity theft, internet scams, and financial loss. At the very least, co-workers can now see where you live, get the value of your home, and get your date of birth all by searching the internet, thanks to sites that profit by unlawfully collecting and selling your data. Think no one is searching for such information? Think again. Criminals in Russia, Philippines, China, the Ukraine, West Africa and Romania and in many other countries use this information to scam you, install viruses on your computer, send you spam, and target you.

But social networks are just the tip of the iceberg of the vast data available about you on the internet. Trademarks, criminal records, property records, civil records, family info and more is now available – all without your authorization or consent. Who gave these websites such as 123People and Radaris the right to publish your private information, and sell it to the world???

International private investigators advise caution online. Never provide much personal data on the internet on social networking sites. Remember that anything you publish online could fall into the wrong hands and be used against you. If your private information is being published without your authorization, and your privacy is violated by websites such as Mylife.com, Intelius.com, Radaris.com, Spokeo.com or Peoplefinder.com, contact them directly and demand that they remove your private information from their website. Contact your attorney general and the your congressman to ask for assistance in protecting consumers privacy on the internet.

Never before has privacy been violated on such a massive scale that is taking place today in the United States. Companies are gathering your information, publishing it without your consent, and selling it to the world without your authorization. Take a stand, and fight back!

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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Friday, December 23, 2011
Russia Private Investigators Explain the Russian Threat of Hackers



Perhaps it’s true, that there is some prejudice when people say Russia has the most hackers in the world. Law enforcement and private investigators admit it may not be the highest, but the statistics certainly confirm it’s at least one of the highest risk countries in the world, where hackers are not only a real threat, but also a praised part of the Russian society. Russia is a corrupt and inefficient country, now facing an apparent dictatorship from Putin, among other serious corruption. When Russian hackers are identified for breaking into a bank or foreign government’s computer system, or bringing down another website, they can even be viewed as heroes in Russia.

Unfortunately Russians have earned their reputation, and there is a lot of work to be done so that they lose their bad fame. However, most agree that little is being done, and if anything, the problem appears to be getting worse. By perpetrating ongoing scams since the internet began, Russians have become quite good at what they do. Poor economic conditions and high unemployment in Russia drives many talented young people to the internet, where they can use their skills to make money, illegally and unethically. There simply aren’t many other opportunities, they say.

Many of the beautiful Russian brides online are nothing more than middle aged men, overweight and lazy, but quite proficient in internet, hacking and scams. They specialize in stealing money from Australians, Americans and Canadians. But beyond prejudices, the statistics show that 35% of the crimes happening on the internet come from a source based in Russia, costing the world a total of $2.5 and $3.7 billion USD annually. This is serious business, and the criminal activity in Russia actually drives the costs up for consumers around the world. Someone has to pay for the losses, and it’s not the Russian. Companies in developed countries have to develop security systems and other costly measures to combat the fraud and hacking. That cost gets passed onto consumers, shows research by New York University’s SCPS Center for Global Affairs.

Hackers have become a powerful threat today, as everyday more and more important operations take place online. Russia private investigators say that it is not only citizens sharing content or writing emails or sending documents through the internet who are at risk, but also bank transactions, governments, and other important agencies. Defense departments, service entities and company networks have to develop defensive technologies. The threat is constant.

The truth is that most Russians have had strong aptitude in Math, technology and software development. If the political and economic situation can change in Russia, there’s a good chance that this mental capital could be used to propel the economy and advance the country. Until there is transparency and fair elections, the status quo should remain. Inefficiencies and socialist corruption left over from the former Soviet Union need to go, and then the hackers.

In the meantime, law enforcement and private investigators agree that Russian background checks performed by experienced and reputable firms can greatly reduce the risk in the region.

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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Saturday, November 26, 2011
Russia Private Detectives Offer Checklist for Hiring Investigators



The Russian Federation has been favored with the increase of the use of technology and software development. It is the 10th largest economy in the world and the government has begun a project of country infrastructure development, with targets set for 2020. But Russia is also a well known country for the most terrible internet scams since the very early days of online fraud, from the typical romance scams to complex business scams and identiyy theft rings, defrauding individuals and companies in Western world of millions and millions of dollars. Many fake employers and job candidates can appear and disappear, changing identity to continue their crimes.

There are good and bad private investigators in Russia and Ukraine and there are lots of fraudsters claiming to offer intelligence and investigation services. Some websites appear to be professional, but when payment is sent, it is lost forever. Some private detectives attempt to do the work, while others simply take the money and run. Finding a reliable and trustworthy professional, with the proper training and resources, is not an easy task. How can you tell that you are hiring a reputable Russia private investigator? Here are some basic points to consider when selecting a Russia private investigator. This checklist can help you to avoid being a victim.

1. In the cyber age a company without a website is basically nonexistent or a scam. Walk away from a claimed “company” that has no professional website. Also, if their website looks unprofessional, it may be a sign that you’re dealing with an individual.

2. Investigators incur expenses when conducting real investigations. In today’s world, you often get what you pay for. If an investigator claims to be able to “easily” get the evidence you need and handle your case, at a great or very cheap price, be suspicious! Moscow is one of the most expensive cities in the world. Expect to pay a realistic price.

3. Walk away from investigation firms requesting Western Union or PayPal payments only. Professional and reliable investigators and real companies accept credit card payments and provide SSL secure check for payment via their website, or bank transfer.

4. If the investigator is unwilling to discuss your case over the phone, take your business elsewhere. A reputable private investigator may prefer email, but he or she should be willing to schedule a brief phone conversation to discuss your case and needs.

5. Search the internet for references on the company’s reputation. See if other people have complained or had good or bad experiences. If you’re still unsure, ask for references.

6. Look for privacy and trust seals like Truste, McAfee, Verisign and the Better Business Bureau. Private investigation involves sensitive information and should be a very discreet and confidential service. It’s essential that your private information stays private.

7. Make sure your investigators speaks and writes clear and proper English and responds to emails promptly and clearly. Customer service is part of the job and a good indication of what you can expect after you pay. Be skeptical, and ask questions.

These are just some basic facts to keep in mind when hiring Russia private investigators that can keep you safe from fraud and unreliable service. There are good PIs in Russia and the Ukraine, but there are no shortage of crooks out there, and incompetent and untrained investigators can lead to disaster. Stay safe and contract the services of a reliable professional.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2011 A Hathaway
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Friday, November 18, 2011
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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Monday, November 7, 2011
International Investigators Crack Down on China Investment Scams



Asia has been a center of booming population and investment for the past 20 years. It was Japan, the rising sun that brought high quality electronics to the world in the early 80’s. Remember the walkman? China has now emerged as a world power due to its huge population, booming economy and supplier contracts with most major economies around the world. Chances are, most of the things in your home were made in China, regardless of where you live. Exports and massive industrialization of cheap products are sold all over the world and do not offer high quality, but volume and low prices. This is the dragon’s recipe for international commercial success. With success and profits, come firms and individuals chasing returns. Because of the widespread corruption in China, it’s a high risk game for fraud. Investigators aim to minimize the risk.

China has made the world learn the cost of low price- low quality items and the words “Made in China” has become a popular reference for –cheap- low quality- short life products, and yet, you can find them everywhere in the whole world. With internet access and usage surging in China, many Chinese are now finding other ways to take advantage of foreigners seeking a quick profit. Failing to verify companies and people in China can be a costly mistake. Whether a contact is personally referred to a CEO, or a manager finds a contact or website via the internet for a Chinese business partner, caution is strongly advised. Investment scams in China are booming.

Companies and individuals in the developed world of the U.S., Canada, Australia and the U.K. are most often targeted. Criminals seek to present an attractive business proposal, profitable, supplier or export relationships, or sell a company stock or precious metals at a great price. Investors operating from another country or continent often find it very difficult to verify a firm in China due to the language and lack of transparency in that country. In fact, in many cases, it simply isn’t possible for a manager of a U.S. or Canadian firm to verify a small company or business person or facilities or operations in China. Verifying reputation and reliability of that potential business partner can be even more difficult. The truth is, in 90% of the cases, the skills of a qualified professional private investigation firm is needed, where a team on the ground verifies claimed offices, facilities, operations, reputation, legal filings, financials and more.

It pays to do your home and due diligence is essential when dealing with China. Reputable international private investigator firms such as Wymoo® International now specialize in verifying relationships, firms, investments and individuals in China. With professional field investigators based in Shanghai, Beijing and Hong Kong, trained investigation teams can gather high level information that is essential to business managers to make an informed decision. Such verification services can shine the light and bring details to the surface, which would otherwise be unavailable in the decision making process. In short, it’s a valuable insurance to have.

China offers a vast landscape of economic opportunities and cheap suppliers, and even up and coming stocks to invest in. With increased potential reward, however, comes increased risk. Experts urge managers to hire a professional to verify claims made by Chinese companies, and to verify Chinese business contacts and all associated documentation and contracts. International due diligence can be costly, but it’s a fraction of the cost that can result from dealing with a criminal, and being a victim of investment scam or fraud. Individuals, small companies and corporations have been driven into bankruptcy. Be smart. Be safe in China.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2011 A Hathaway
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Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Ukraine Background Checks Help Reduce Internet Risks



Cyber crime has surpassed the traditional form or crime in many countries around the world. A survey conducted by the government security department among British citizens revealed that over two million people have fallen victims of a scam or fraud over the internet, whether credit card electronic cloning, phishing and virtual auctions, romance scams, identity theft or account hacking. Countries like Britain and Germany are top users of the internet in the world along with the United States, though the extreme cautiousness of the Germans have kept them safer than most Americans, Canadians, British and Australians. The U.S. and U.K. rank as the leaders in internet victims compared to other countries, and sadly, the trend is only getting worse. The fact is criminals are advancing online faster than website security and law enforcement can keep up. One country that poses a major threat is the Ukraine, and caution is advised.

In Russia the panorama doesn’t look much different either. The internet represents good business for top technicians that develop anti- virus protection software and other security vendors on the internet, but on the other hand, Russia and the Ukraine are two countries widely known as one of the most professional and avant garde cyber criminals where romance scams and advance fee fraud are now a thing of the past, for amateurs really. The threat from the Ukraine and Russia is bigger, and criminals are after big money, targeting corporations and individual accounts.

Russia private investigators are very busy these days in their home country and also in the Ukraine. Clients range from multi-national corporations to small business owners to individuals. Internet extortion and hacking are the latest trend among criminals in the Ukraine, and it does not stop there. Russian criminals have now joined crime rings in other countries like China, Taiwan, Singapore, Vietnam and the Philippines, all together away millions from stolen credit cards, hacking bank account information and even extorting bank accounts holders in telephone scams. Investigators comment that even there has been some operations where over 1,500 fraudsters have been detained this year, criminals have become more effective, and the risk is high.

Security agencies around the world are starting to work together but it will take a long time for real progress to be made, according to industry experts and private investigators. The reason is that jurisdiction and language and cultural barriers make coordination among law enforcement a challenge, not to mention political conflicts where certain nations simply aren’t willing or interested in working together. Meanwhile, online scammers, fraudsters and extortionists will evolve and will become more capable and a greater threat. They target your account information, your personal data to be used for identity theft, and they are growing in number.

Investigators say internet users around the world need to understand that no site is 100% safe. Be very careful posting your private data on sites like Facebook and Match.com and other major social networking and online dating sites, where criminals often target potential victims. Be wary of suspicious emails and delete them. Never reveal your personal information over the phone or the internet to any person or business who has not been verified. If the person or company you’re dealing with is located in a foreign country, there is an increased risk for fraud. Proceed with caution and when in doubt, contact a reputable private investigation firm to discuss a Russia or Ukraine background check or due diligence investigation to minimize your risk online.

In today’s virtual world, it pays to be skeptical and cautious. Professional background checks are increasingly an effective tool in the battle against scam and fraud.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2011 A Hathaway 

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Thursday, September 22, 2011
International Background Checks Can Keep You Safe Online



Security is a concern when we talk about the internet. In recent months hacking has been rising and most internet users are subject to the risks, despite that many companies who operate online claim. Websites and companies of all sizes and background now have our personal information such as our email accounts , website passwords, social media information and photos, resumes, bank account information, social security numbers, home address, marital status, the works. Clearly not every company and website is doing everything they can to protect your privacy. Some are even selling your information to other third parties without your knowledge. New and growing risks online are fueling the demand for international background checks

As there are more internet users every day and applications and information available is getting larger, the means of protection of our information seems to be getting smaller. Protecting our identity and information online is becoming more difficult rather than easier. Hackers are finding ways to access websites who store our information. Each month it seems a major bank or company reports or sends you an email stating their information had been accessed, and your account data and identity could be impacted. Social networks have developed an endless competitive war between themselves and it seems that the more Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and Google+ expose themselves, the more users can see these sites are primarily interested in making money from users and users’ information. The users are paying the price.

Not long ago Facebook changed and added more applications where your privacy and that of your contacts and their contacts and so on, is less protected and your account less private. With all the growing risk, international investigators warn internet users more than ever about who you become “friends” with online and remember when sharing your information online, it’s a good rule to assume it could end up in the hands of your worst enemy, or be publicly displayed.

Localization applications have been one of the latest and coolest applications added to Zuckerberg’s 500 million user network, and it is, by all means, a very useful tool for criminals who don’t have to worry about finding you, and knowing where you are at this very moment. This makes it easier for stalkers, murderers and internet scammers to know where you are, when you’re at home, and when you’re leaving work. Perhaps you’re connected through your BB and on a cab on the way to pick up your children, criminals can see that also. Detectives in major world cities and reputable international private investigators say an alarming number of homicides, kidnappings, rape and assault cases have an element of an internet relationship, or to put simply, resulted in one way or another from an internet relationship or social networking site.

Internet fraud and scams are not only about romance or marriage scams anymore. As the internet evolves, so do the criminal techniques employed. What you do online can impact you offline and can create serious risks and dangers to you in your REAL LIFE so proceed with caution.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway

© 2011 A Hathaway
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Monday, September 12, 2011
International Due Diligence: Doing Your Homework



Investors around the world are seeking out new and profitable opportunities beyond their own national borders. Investment opportunities are hard to find in the global recession, so managers and business owners and CEO’s are looking to other countries and even other continents to find a more efficient way to compete in the new (and grim) financial landscape. This trend has created a sharp increase in the number of international business deals and foreign investment, especially in booming nations and populations of China and India. Many companies are eager to make a deal, snag an opportunity or find a lower cost supplier, and in the gold rush, many fail to do their due diligence. In today’s high risk environment, not doing your homework can be very costly.

International due diligence is the process of verifying individuals and organizations in other countries to minimize the risk in global business transactions and investment. It is a valuable tool that can save a company from serious negative publicity, serious financial losses or even bankruptcy. It is a form of insurance that can verify new business contacts, new suppliers, small business operations overseas, and determine if a person or business (or stock) is what it appears to be. It’s common news these days that more and more corporations down to individuals are being defrauded in international business and investment. The risk is high, and the demand for professional verification services is growing. Doing businesses offshore has serious potential, but there are also risks that should be identified and minimized before moving forward.

Victims abound in the U.K., U.S., Canada and Australia. Relatively rich countries in the developed world are seeking investment (typically) in developing nations, where there is less oversight, less regulation and less transparency. The result? High risk for fraud and scams. Experience investors know that even if you have met a company representative in Beijing, or a sales person in London, or a CEO in New Delhi, there is still significant risk on the table. Financial statements and operation figures can be falsified, exaggerated, etc. Offices may exist on paper, but when an investigator visits the address, it may or may not exist, or be as claimed. Contracts and relationships with other companies may not be true, and even if a company in China, India, Nigeria or Ghana or South Africa or Brazil claims to have IBM or Microsoft or General Electric as it’s major customer, such relationships should be verified in the due diligence and verification process.

In recent years, companies in the Fortune 500 have been seriously threatened by the risk from false companies based in China, India and Southeast Asia. Fraud operations in the Philippines and Malaysia are growing, and investments made in companies based in Manila and Kuala Lumpur are at high risk. Russia has presented serious challenges as well, and investments in Russia (a huge market with a lot of opportunity) are at serious risk for scams, business fraud, stock scams and misrepresentation as criminal operations operate in an organized and effective fashion from Moscow and St. Petersburg. Gold scams and precious metals and commodity investment scams are also out of control and being run by organized criminal groups in Ghana, Nigeria and Benin in West Africa. To make matters worse, even if the business contact or company never mentions one of these countries, it doesn’t mean the risk is gone. In fact, many scammers operating from these countries use VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) such as Skype to use local phone numbers in New York or London or Hong Kong, to pose as a local or business based in that country. It’s becoming very difficult to know who is who, and where he or she is operating from.

International due diligence is a form of insurance and doing your homework. International private investigators are now in high demand, as businesses and individuals see the need to verify and minimize the risk. Initial screening and scrutiny should always done in house, but before a deal or agreement is reached, experts advise relying on a professional private investigator who has offices or field investigators on the ground where you need them, to verify offices, relationships, operations, employees, management, business registrations and licensing, reputation and more. In many cases, having a professional and highly trained investigator on the ground with local contacts, access to local records, and who speaks the same language and culture is the only way to obtain the evidence and verify the information in question. Be safe and verify.
Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2011 A Hathaway

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Friday, August 26, 2011
Philippines Scams Keep Investigators on Alert

There’s no stopping for private investigators trying to solve multiple cases of internet fraud and scams from the Philippines. It’s been an ongoing problem and it just doesn’t seem to improve. As the internet evolves, fraudsters move ahead with and adapt to the most sophisticated methods possible to fool internet users around the world. Whether it be business fraud, romance scam, Filipina bride scams, dating scams, phishing scams, PPC fraud or identity theft, the Philippines ranks among Nigeria as a global scam capitol.

Poverty and poor education has made the Philippines a high risk nation for fraud that permeates all levels of society. Many unscrupulous men and women in Manila and Cebu, to all corners of the island nation, have found that cheating foreigners offers an alternative way to get money easily and with little risk of getting caught. The sad story perhaps is that most criminals are young people trying to get funds not necessarily to prosper, to invest, or to pay for college, but rather to use drugs and alcohol consumption.

In some cases, Philippines private investigators have joined forces with the National Bureau of Investigation and the Philippines National Police in the Philippines and other security forces in Manila, as well as with neighboring Asian countries such as Malaysia. (Malaysia is one of the fastest growing countries in the world for internet scams and fraud, and could soon surpass the Philippines). Malaysia, Thailand and Taiwan have been able to prosecute criminals that have committed major fraud cases. With each success story and arrest, however, there are 20 to 50 reported new cases of major internet scams. The fact is government and law enforcement agencies in Southeast Asia are ill-equipped to combat such internet scams.

The types of scam and fraud cases are seemingly endless. In some cases telemarketing type callers will contact potential victims claims to be government agents, informing the person that there are fees or taxes that are past due. When fraud and scams don’t work, criminals are turning to extortion, claiming to have dirt on the person and will threaten to damage his or her reputation, costing the person his or her job. The NBI in the Philippines has increased its cyber crime division, but professional Philippines detectives say it is too little too late. Criminals seem to understand this also, and they conduct crime openly from internet cafes and in many communities, it is an acceptable way to make a living, believe it or not. Poverty stricken areas tend to look the other way when young people turn to internet scams and prostitution. Anything to survive they say, and many locals claim they have no other choice. Experts say poverty and corruption is a factor, but never an excuse. For honest and hardworking individuals, there is always opportunity.

Investigators, law enforcement and the media have been emphasizing on the proper ways that people can keep themselves safe by using common sense and not being so open to strangers, above all, not sharing personal information that may put themselves at risk. If you’re communicating via Facebook, Filipino Cupid, Match.com or similar site, be safe and never reveal your full name, address and date of birth and photos. This information together is nearly enough to have your identity stolen. Be safe and skeptical.

Remember that if you’ve never met the person in real life, and have been only communicating via the internet, there is no way to know for sure if the person is legitimate. Experts advise a comprehensive background check by a reputable private investigator to minimize your risk. Verify the individual and then decide. Philippine background checks, due diligence or surveillance at the right time can save you a lot of trouble and unpleasant experience. Play it safe in the Philippines and verify.

Best of luck,

A. Hathaway
© 2011 A. Hathaway




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Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Philippines Detectives Say Senior Citizens Caught in Telemarketing Scam



Figures reveal that senior citizens who are living on their own might be a special target for telemarketing scams which originate from the Philippines. Scammers operating from Manila have been identified as operating telemarketing scams which target U.S. and Australia citizens mainly. Trained sellers would call their victims offering services and bogus products to them, free prizes, low cost vitamins, health care products or inexpensive vacations, with the aim to get your personal and banking information. The goal of the criminals is to have a friendly sales call with a senior, and to extract as much information as possible, later to be used for further phishing and identity theft tactics to eventually access the victims’ bank account or financial information. Philippines detectives say if the offer sounds too good to pass up, the best thing to do is hang up.

Whether it’s an email address, phone number date of birth or address, experts says it’s always best to reveal as little information as possible. One piece of information may seem harmless enough to give out over the phone, but law enforcement and reputable Philippines private investigation firms like Philippine PI™ say criminal use information they already know to put the pieces together, and then use that information to their advantage. For example, criminals in Manila recently were using public records to target seniors. They used the phone book to find the subject’s full name, address and telephone number. Then, by making scam phone calls pretending to be a bank or government official, scammers were able to obtain many dates of birth and even ID numbers. Taken together, criminals were able to steal some senior citizens’ identity, and even in some cases, access bank account information and steal significant amounts of money.

Philippines investigators explain that telemarketers can often be recruited by criminals to use their sales skills for illegal purposes. The person on the other side of the phone will pressure you to make a fast decision because the offer will expire in 30 minutes, or will be a serious security issue for your bank account, and you have to act fast or your account could be at risk. With a skilled sales person and convincing pitch, and pressure to act, many seniors fall for the scam and reveal their account numbers (for verification) or also their ID numbers (also for verification). The convincing criminal explains it is for their own security of their accounts that they verify. In some cases telemarketing scams can also use emails to further increase credibility and trust.

Unless the company identifies itself and is a company or institution you are familiar with, it’s best to hang up. If they offer you something free, be skeptical, and end the call for your own safety. Nothing in this world is free, unfortunately. If it is a bank or institution you are familiar with and have an account with, explain to the caller that you will call the bank back directly, at the number that is listed on your statement from your bank, to be sure you’re conversation is secure.

Never send any money to anyone you don’t know. Avoiding providing your credit card or bank account number, and never reveal your ID number. A big warning sign is when the telemarketer tells you “You don’t need to speak to anyone about this offer” or “You need to act now if you’re interested in the offer” which are major red flags for fraud and criminal activity.

Legitimate companies identify themselves accordingly and often inform you of good promotions and offers they have in a different way, such as via the physical mail or on their company website. A respectable company will never call you directly and pressure you to make a decision.

Stay skeptical and be aware of the risk for fraud and scams. If seniors have any doubt about the legitimacy of an offer or company, they should contact a reputable private investigation company or their local law enforcement or Better Business Bureau for assistance.     G48HWKZRSP63
Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2011 A Hathaway

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Friday, August 12, 2011
International Investigators Busy in Emerging Markets



Emerging markets are nations with activity in the process of rapid growth and industrialization, in which China is considered the largest. India is next on the list, but the truth is, more nations are in the developing status than those that are developed. Outside the major economies of Germany, U.S., U.K., Canada and Australia, the world is undergoing rapid economic change which includes the infrastructure, method of conducting business and rule of law. Developing nations are still the Wild West, and are inherently full of risk. With risk comes reward, so the saying goes, but international private investigators are busy trying to minimize that risk for global clients. They're working overtime.

Countries like Malaysia, the Philippines, Russia, Ukraine, South Africa, Brazil, China, Ghana, Colombia and Nigeria, among the other top emerging 65 economies around the world are undergoing a rapid transformation to participate in globalization and the new economy. But, stifling much of this growth and transformation is the threat from scams and fraud, which can be costly to investors, governments and individuals. We live in an imperfect world, so while getting in at the ground level on a gold mining company in Ghana, or an internet start up in Hong Kong may sound like a great idea with major potential rewards, it is not without major risk.  The unknowns are greater than ever.

Southeast Asia countries are seeing a sharp rise in more fraud and scam types than what most people are aware of on the internet. International commerce, investment and communication by default involves the internet, making international business and deals in emerging economies even more risk prone. The internet offers criminals anonymity and protection. It’s no longer just online dating, advance free fraud or investment scams. China, Malaysia and the Philippines, together with Thailand and Taiwan have seen recent arrests of organized criminals groups surprisingly large and specialized in their illegal operations online. There is serious money to be made, and developing countries often have ineffective and underfunded law enforcement agencies, not to mention corruption problems. These factors combined create a haven for scams and fraud.

Criminals are taking advantage of the global recession. Investors, both individuals and corporations, are looking abroad to find opportunities, seeking a profitable deal in places that are unknown and new, where language and cultural barriers make it hard to conduct international due diligence. It can be hard enough to verify contacts, business operations and proposals in your home country. Throw in a different language and continent, and due diligence and screening for fraud can get complicated. For this reason many investors and consumers are relying on highly trained international private investigation firms like Wymoo® International to verify business contacts, companies and relationships. Having a professional investigator on the ground where you need him, speaking the same language, utilizing local contacts, checking references, accessing local records and providing details of facilities is an invaluable tool at minimizing risk.  Not doing your homework can be costly.

Scam operations in many developing countries have become experts in business fraud, where their main targets are Western companies or English speaking investors. Experts say Africa, Latin America and Asia are the highest crime rate regions for business fraud and scams. China may be the up and coming world power, but by no means is it there yet. China suffers from severe overpopulation and also a serious problem with fraud. The ethics and policies of trading and business practices vary significantly from what Western businesses are used to.

Latin-American emerging markets are no exception. If fraud or scam isn’t present, there’s the risk for hyper-inflation and devaluation of the local currencies, not to mention kidnapping of executives in Mexico, or extortion from drug dealers. Each region is unique, and only a reputable international investigation firm with field investigators in the local area can prudently screen the case for fraud and risk factors, since each country and case is unique.  Be safe and verify the facts.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2011 A Hathaway




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Russia Private Investigators Discuss Dating Scams


After several months of writing back and forth and even phone calls and web cam chats, there has never been a single request for money. And then, you take the relationship to the next level and would like to meet this beautiful woman. She seems perfect, but you are aware of the risk. Finally, the two of you agree that you will fly her to your home country. You agree to help her with her plane ticket, passport and visa. It will be an investment, and relatively expensive. You can’t put a price on love. You might also need to pay for a travel agency to help with her visa, or even help her with some bills so that she can leave work and visit you. Everything seems legit and you don’t mind helping out. You even provided her with a copy of your passport, so her travel agent has all your information and can expedite your visa. She has pictures of you, your address, a copy of your passport, and your home phone number and date of birth. You send the money, and she has all your personal details. You’ve just been a victim and it’s about to get worse.  Welcome to Russian dating scams.

Next you might find yourself in London or Toronto or New York or Sydney airport waiting for your online romance. She’s your perfect match. You might buy some roses or chocolates to surprise her when she lands. You’re ready for the grand rendez vous. All passengers are finally arriving and you’re looking for her among the passengers. She never showed. What happened?

You rush home to check your email to find out what happened. Finally, she contacts you. There’s been a problem. Things are complicated. For one reason or another, she wasn’t able to visit you and she’s in serious problems. She’s sorry but she needs your help more than ever.  What should you do?

Russia private investigators say this is a common scenario in romance scams involving Russian women. The sad fact of the matter is, in this case, the victim lost thousands of dollars, and even had his identity stolen (after providing all his details). Romance scams and Russian internet fraud is serious business, and there are many victims. The risk is high and relationships should be verified. Experienced criminals can fool just about anyone, so don’t think it couldn’t happen to you – it could. Scammers target victims on sites like Match.com, eHarmony and Facebook, and Russian bride sites, but if you’re on the internet meeting people, you’re at risk.

Detectives in Moscow deal with these situations on a regular basis. American, Canadian and British and Australian men have been duped and devastated, by the thousands. And to make matters worse, experts say the internet crimes and scam levels are actually rising.  Investigators say caution is advised.

Money often flows down the drain after falling for a beautiful blue eyed Russian or Ukrainian woman. Investigators say be skeptical, very skeptical. Avoid providing personal details and data, and any request for money should be a major red flag. If in doubt, contact a reputable Russia private detective such as Russia PI™ for verification and evidence on the subject.

Private investigators around the world and particularly in Russia and the Ukraine keep telling us to be careful and not to hesitate to verify any relationship that begins on the internet. Professional and discreet background check investigations can save you time and money, and lots of heartache. Experts say it’s a wise form of insurance to lower your risk online.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2011 A Hathaway




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