Showing posts with label international private investigators. Show all posts
Showing posts with label international private investigators. Show all posts
Monday, September 30, 2013
How Private Investigators Can Help Reduce Business Risk
















There is a trendy topic in today's business world that is considered one of new and best management practices, and that business owners and executives not always understand very well. It is risk management. Risk management is certainly nothing new, but it's emphasis in the business climate has never been stronger. These days, no corporation or medium sized business can live without it for long. It is the process in which companies identify their risks, assess them, take action to minimize and monitor and control the chances of having an unfortunate event occurring. It may seem simple, but the reality is that it is quite complicated because all the process depends on accurate and quality information. Obtaining the right information is not so easy.

Considering that countries like Russia, China, Malaysia, Ghana, Nigeria and Philippines have been listed as high fraud risk countries, some extra precaution won´t hurt. Professional private investigators do not limit their jobs to following unfaithful spouses. These days, an international investigation company can help business clients obtain the information and evidence they need to make an informed decision, and uncover pertinent information that will point out if there is any unknown risk in your operations, partner or investment that you're considering.

Consider the following situations where investigators can add significant value:

1. Hiring. Recruiting new people is always a risk regardless of the level. Discreet investigations can minimize the risk of a negligent-hiring lawsuit when hiring internationally. A pre-employment screening will help your business minimize the risk of hiring someone that is unqualified, unethical or not who they claim to be. Making sure you have an honest candidate is the first step and one of the most important in risk management.

2. Assessing your value chain. Providers have a great weight when it comes to your business sustainability because they are part of your reputation. Your company is at risk when your providers decide to ignore anti-corruption and trade control laws, or international treaties on fair commerce. In a globalized world, where emerging economies like the Philippines, China and India are providing a great portion of manufactured goods and services to developed countries and clients, verifying your foreign business contacts is essential.

3. Investment opportunities. Reducing risk when investing overseas starts by obtaining reliable, accurate and hard to obtain information. In most cases, getting the facts you need and verifying a reputation of a person or company in a foreign country, or checking to see if a factory or office really exists, requires the support of a private investigator in that country with access to local information, who speaks the language and can verify the facts.

4. Company verifications. A company verification will provide information on stock ownership, legal registration, operations, reputation, verification of the management, court and litigation history, assets, and screening the case for fraud. If you're planning to put your money in South East Asia, Africa, China, Latin America or India, or even Eastern Europe, you had better be sure the company and contact you are dealing with are legitimate.

5. Mergers and acquisitions. These might be the only situations in which companies are really aware of financial risk and really do their homework, but due diligence is often done in house and does not adequately identify risk and verify foreign contacts at the same level that experienced private investigators do. Think of an investigator on the ground where you need him as your eyes and ears, and a wise form of insurance to have. They can obtain independent references, photographs offices and facilities, conduct asset searches, and verify all business and legal filings, and properly screen the case for fraud.

Risk management starts with being able to obtain useful and precise information at the right time. Be safe. When considering a new investment or new partnership, contact a professional.

A. Hathaway
© 2013 A. Hathaway

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Monday, February 18, 2013
Dating Background Checks Advised in Romania













It seems that Romania is gaining popularity for nothing else but Romanian brides and romance scams these days.  How the country got itself involved in this mess goes back to two things.  Beautiful women, and a dismal economy.  As Romanians seek a better life, many have found that by scamming foreigners on the internet can be a way out to a better situation.  If being a criminal or unethical is what it takes, many Romanian scammers accept the risk.

The poor economy in Eastern Europe has led many beautiful Romanians to seek love online on major social networks and also online dating sites.  Other Romanian women choose adult web cam sites or adult online dating.  They hope to meet a foreigner who can support them, and pay their way to a better life.  And, they are willing to do nearly whatever it takes to get it.

Romania investigators confirm that in the past six months the request for investigations on women located in Bucharest and elsewhere in Romania has nearly doubled.  Clearly, not all Romanian women are scammers and many are beautiful, honest and decent women truly looking for love, or just looking to meet new people.  Investigators say ignoring the risk, however, is a dangerous way to conduct relationships online, and often leads to internet users being victims.

Some scammers use fake profiles and photographs.  Others show themselves on website, but lie about their true identity and situation.  Still others reveal themselves entirely, but lie about their intentions, feelings and motives just to get your money or gifts.  It’s a serious risk that can leave online dating subscribers and social networking users devastated with heartache and very serious financial loss.  Experts say it is essential to verify first rather than later.

International private investigators warn that the risk for online scams and fraud, especially in the realm of internet dating and social networks continues to rise.  Guard your personal information.  Do not reveal your true date of birth or address until you’ve met the subject in person, or had the person verified by a reputable private investigation company and background check.

Romance scammers are professional criminals that know their ways to gain your trust and eventually your money. Investigators have seen people requesting help when it is already too late and in most cases, victims have lost a lot of money and life savings, even their homes in some cases.  Whether it’s Romania or elsewhere, take it slow on the internet.  Take time to get to know the person, protect your personal data, and consider an international background check.

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2013 A Hathaway

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












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

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

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

Avoid Fraud. Hire Professionals

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

Best of luck, 

A Hathaway
© 2013 A Hathaway


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Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Internet Scams Earning Millions, Report Investigators















According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), internet scams including identity theft, romance and advance free fraud have cost the U.S. over $450M USD in 2011, and those figures only account for reported crimes.  It is estimated 80% of such crimes go unreported.

Most common scam targeting Americans is cyber criminals approaching internet users on social networking sites and online dating sites, trying to be your “friend” or gain your confidence.  Once they have an open line of communication, they can usually proceed to steal your identity, or money.   The combinations and approaches used are endless, and anyone can be a victim.  In some cases the red flags are easy to spot, in other cases it may only take clicking on a link. 

Online shopping is also a main concern of internet security for the American government, the FBI and international investigators, as millions of emails are sent everyday offering victims bargains and deals that seem confusingly legit and authentic.  All it takes is a click on a bad link, or a visit to the wrong website and your computer maybe downloading a virus to take your passwords.

Overpayment fraud is a big concern now-a-days as victims get a check with instructions to deposit it in a bank account and send excess funds or a percentage of the money back to the sender. Private investigators explain that if caught, the sender (usually the victim) could also be charged in the scam, even though he was not aware of the crime he was committing when sending funds.

Most of these types of crimes come from people overseas located in the Philippines, Nigeria, Ghana, Ukraine, Russia, Malaysia and China, although there are no criminal operations from all over the world including the developed nations.  For a list of countries where private investigators actively screen for fraud and scams, click here. Before making any payment, consumers should confirm where does money comes from and who they are dealing with.

The Internet Crime Complaint Center has reported that financial losses in 2011 were over $450 M USD, and romance scams are playing a major role in crime trend.  With more people connecting on social media and online dating sites like Match.com and Facebook, there is more fraud risk in relationships and more verification needed.  Profiles are easy to fake and identities are easily taken from the internet, so verifying someone you met online is often very difficult or impossible without the help of a trained private investigator or reputable private investigation firm.

Even all the efforts to inform the internet community about the threats of internet relationships, people still want to believe they are dating someone who is decent and honest, and find hard to believe the person on the other side of the wire can be a professional criminal.

Internet scams usually result in monetary and emotional distress for victims, and the crime is more serious than more people believe.  The result is also very costly to the global economy.  So, do yourself and the world a favor and be cautious in relationships on the internet.

Best of luck,

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



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

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

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

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

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


Best of luck,

A Hathaway
 © 2012 A Hathaway

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Saturday, March 24, 2012
Malaysia Scam Cases Rising, Say Kuala Lumpur Investigators



Real estate, business fraud and internet scams are putting Malaysia on the international map for a known fraud operations center, where internet criminals are quickly increasing their business and profits.  The recession has caused an environment where there is limited opportunity, and more and more criminals are choosing the easy money of the internet to make a living.  Targeting victims online is profitable, and as a result is fast becoming a major problem in Malaysia.

Malaysia private investigators advise business persons, individuals and investors to verify their connections and potential companies if interested to put their money in this region of the planet. Comprehensive background checks and international due diligence should be conducted to protect your company, assets and reputation, as law enforcement has seen business in the Western world suffering real damage out of scams from Malaysia.  Such scams often take the form of false companies, false suppliers or fraudulent investments, and victims usually send their money to invest or start a partnership, later to learn the company or person was a fraud.  Online dating scams are also growing at an alarming rate.  Criminals are working all angles to turn a profit.

Experts say be very skeptical about anyone on the internet asking for personal information or money.  NEVER provide a copy of your passport to anyone via the internet who has not been verified by a reputable private investigation firm.  Doing so can quickly lead to identity theft and financial loss.  Revealing your full name, date of birth and address to someone over the internet, especially Malaysia, is ill-advised.  Verify first, and then decide.   Professional private investigation companies like Wymoo® International have investigators on the ground in Kuala Lumpur and can verify individuals, companies, offices, identity, business registration, etc.

If you are in a business and you are contacted by email or receive a cold call from a company based in Malaysia requesting information, proceed with caution. Be skeptical of new contacts via Facebook or Linkedin and other sites, when someone appears to have an opportunity that seems the perfect fit, or dream opportunity.  If you have to move fast to get the deal, that is another red flag.  Take a step back, and contact a private investigator with operations in Malaysia or in the country where you need them for a discreet consultation.  Make sure the person or company you are dealing with is real, and the offer is legit before you provide the details on yourself or company.  Too many victims report being scammed online, and the risk in Malaysia is growing.  U.S. and Australia and Canadian Embassy officials receive over one hundred complaints each week!

Malaysia background checks can help you minimize the risk of fraud and provide you with relevant information to help you make a more informed decision.  It’s smart to be covered.

The internet opens wide doors to numerous opportunities and international relationships.  Unfortunately, those doors are not only open to those who are honest and ethical.  Talk to a private investigator about how to lower your risk, and verify new internet relationships.

Best of luck,

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2012 A Hathaway
 
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Wednesday, March 14, 2012
International Due Diligence Showing Signs of Growth



When companies want to start merging or the acquisition processes on domestic or foreign companies, prudent due diligence investigations can save both time and money.

In the fall of 2004, Lockheed Martin Corp was interested in buying a company based in the state of California and offered $2.4 billion dollars in cash and stock. Risk Management department advised that before moving forward, it was a good idea to verify the company just to make sure there wasn’t dirt hidden under the carpet. Lockheed followed the advice and in the due diligence process uncovered that top executives of the prospect company did some embezzlement overseas and led the Justice department to investigate. The company was not was it seemed.

Lockheed slashed the initial offer by $20 million and also conditioned to the company’s settlement with the U.S. government. The business in California could never reach an agreement with the Justice Department and Lockheed decided not to proceed with the acquisition.

This is a good example of the surprises that can arise when a company decides to merge or buy another one and they do their homework. This case is a domestic case of American companies doing business and risk could be detected on time and a good decision could be made to protect the investor’s reputation and millions of money. When a company is based in New York and the other in China or Malaysia, South Africa or Brazil, things get far more complicated. In international deals, the risk is inherently greater, so due diligence is even more important.

Domestic cases are rather straightforward and are often more of an accounting process. In international deals, verifying the numbers alone can leave significant risk on the table. After all, regulatory agencies and transparencies in Africa, Asia, Europe and South Africa are not the same as in the U.S. Verifying operations, reputation, facilities and offices is key. If the company looks perfect on paper, what does its office truly look like in Beijing or Moscow? Does it even exist? What do the company’s current customers say about the company? Is it real?

For companies that are interested to doing business abroad, more and more managers are realizing the importance of vetting potential business partners, both individuals and companies. Professional private investigation firms now offer international due diligence as valuable risk management tool for companies, and for global business, it’s smart insurance.

Poor economic conditions around the world, has led many companies to look abroad for cheaper labor, more profitable business deals, and new ideas and suppliers. When your new employee or business partner resides in a different country where customs, regulations, transparency and language are all different, it can be very hard to verify your potential investment or employee. In most cases, only a qualified professional investigator with investigators on the ground where you need them can verify, uncover valuable evidence and mitigate your risks. Reputable international investigators conduct international background checks and due diligence and have local contacts, speak the language, and are highly trained.

Paul Fletcher, Vice President of Due Diligence at Wymoo® International, says that demand for such services is growing. The company offers full service private investigation services in over 100 countries. “We have seen an increasing demand for international due diligence services over the past three years, ranging from corporate due diligence in global business deals to wealthy individual investors screening their investments for fraud or misrepresentation,” said Fletcher. “In many cases in international deals, a potential business partner, acquisition or investment is not exactly what it claims to be, and much is unknown or unstated. We bring those light.”

Be safe and skeptical. Verify, and then decide.

A Hathaway
© 2012 A Hathaway

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Thursday, February 9, 2012
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, November 18, 2011
Philippines Background Checks More Important than Ever

  • 11/18/2011
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As the world’s economy keeps scaring people through a boomerang effect that began three years ago and some economist predict will last seven more, scams in the Philippines and the entire Asian region seem to be evolving. Criminals and internet scams are not cyclical, they in fact do quite well in an economic downturn. Business scams are often the highest volume in recessions, while romance scams and online dating scams seem to stay steady regardless of the economy. Given the ongoing uncertainly and trouble in the global economy, business fraud levels are very high, and the Philippines remains a high risk area, and for investigators considering conducting business or starting a new relationship in this island nation, a professional background check is key.

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

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

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

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

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

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2011 A Hathaway

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International Private Investigators Ask is Your Online Bank Secure?











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

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

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

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

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

Best of luck,

A Hathaway
© 2011 A Hathaway

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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
International Investigators Ask is Facebook’s https Secure?



The social media world was shocked recently when they learned of the new so called security measures Facebook announced effective October 1, 2011, when Zuckerberg’s largest internet network started to shut down all profiles that are not supported by a secure server application or an “https” URL extension. The announcement comes in response to much criticism and concern over Facebook’s lack of privacy protection for its users, and its use of user data.

A spokesperson at Facebook claimed that it is one of the measures the company will take to prevent users from hacking and identity theft, after two years and probably a million complaints from users about the lack of security on the network, and how exposed users were.

The application is meant to “certify” companies and applications (apps) pages that are hosted in Facebook and basically use the “Welcome application” or iframe in their profile page. Pages for individuals will not be required to be in the SSL (https) format. Company pages, according to Facebook, will be dropped from the network, however, if they are not in a SSL format.

Most internet users know that out of those 500 - 750 million Facebook users, millions could be fake profiles or security profiles users open to a) keep their real identities safe or b) scammers taking all your money. There is one thing we know for sure, companies like GoDaddy are already advertising the SSL application for social networking and selling it from $19.95 up to $150 USD depending on the browsing you use. How having an SSL connection will verify identity on the network is not clear, and put more simply by most private investigators, “garbage”. Https or SSL is good method to protect private information from hackers but this in no way protects against false identities, fake profiles and simply has no impact on verifying identity. Protecting data yes. Verifying identity impossible. To even claim that SSL can in some way verify an identity has drawn hefty criticism from law enforcement and international investigators. It’s time for social networking sites to admit there isn’t much they can do to verify identity, and focus on protecting privacy.

Experts say as long as sites stay free and subscription numbers are in the millions, there will never be any way to prudently screen all the members and profiles. There will always be dangerous criminals mixed among the honest users. Even on pay sites and popular social networking and online dating sites such as Match.com and Linkedin, there simply is no way to check to see if a profile is real and accurate. Investigators say be carefully what you post online, and assume it can land in the hands of a criminal. In addition, private investigators say be careful what you read, and it’s safe to assume it could be false, fake and fraudulent and being used as bait by a criminal. The internet is a lawless land, and law and technology is still trying to catch up with the risk.

To be safe on the internet and on major social networking sites like Facebook, reputable international private investigators like Wymoo® International say it pays to be skeptical. Never reveal your personal information on the internet unless you’re dealing with a verified individual or company. When in doubt, contact a professional private investigation firm for assistance. Services such as an international background check are specifically designed to minimize your risk online, and verify the identity of the person or business behind the internet, sometimes on the other side of the world. Due diligence on a potential business partner or company is also highly before engaging in any business relationship with anyone abroad, especially an unknown business.

The global economy is on thin ice and criminals are finding new and creative ways to steal your money and your identity. Be safe, and proceed with caution online and offline.

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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