Private investigators or most commonly known as private detectives are the unsung heroes of the investigative world. They offer services based on the client’s needs, particularly some sensitive cases that involve surveillance and discretion. Most people think that private investigators are only hired by angry wives who want to catch their cheating husbands, but this line of work is more than that. Check out a private investigator near me to know more about the investigative services they offer.

Private investigators also play an important role for businesses that want to conduct pre-employment background checks for their new employees to make sure that they hire the right people for their companies. Also, private investigators can use their investigative skills to help companies look into fraudulent activities that can harm their organizations. Private investigator services are important particularly in cases that police authorities are too busy to investigate such as a cheating husband. 

Contrary to popular belief, private investigators or detectives are somewhat far from what is normally shown in television shows. They help their clients to the utmost of their abilities but do not break any law.

So before hiring a private investigator, here are some things they won’t do no matter what:

1. They won’t hack anyone’s computer or phone

Since computers and phones are private properties, private investigators don’t have the power to grab and check them without the owner’s permission. Hacking in any form such as emails and social media accounts is definitely a no-no and is already considered illegal and punishable by law. 

2. They cannot put a GPS on someone’s car without permission.

In movies, we usually see someone putting some kind of tracking device on the person they are investigating or want to catch on the act.  The private investigator must have permission from the owner or business owner of a company car  to install a GPS device.   

3. They will not access private records

Private investigators do not have the right to access anyone’s private records such as medical data, financial information or accounts, and even sensitive photographs. They are only able to use public records of the person by thoroughly looking into what is available publicly. Ask a private investigator near me for more information about this.

4. They cannot enter someone’s home without consent

Unlike what we see in movies, private detectives are not ninjas that can enter a home undetected and snoop around looking for any kind of evidence. They can, however, watch someone’s home to see who comes in and out and observe the activities of people inside.

5. They cannot film or photograph anyone inside a private property

It is already considered law-breaking if you film a video or take a photograph of someone inside a private property. Thus, only photographs or videos taken in a public space can be used for investigative purposes. 

6. They cannot take, read, or tamper someone’s mail

Private detectives cannot snoop around someone’s mailbox and open any kind of mail, even periodicals. This is considered illegal and considered a crime that is subject to penalties and imprisonment. 

7. They cannot arrest someone

Private investigators do not have the authority of police officers to arrest anyone. They can only do undercover investigations and gather evidence that can be used by authorities to obtain a warrant of arrest to a suspect. 

Private investigators do not have superpowers, but they can help put your mind at ease and provide a sense of clarity for things that you are suspicious of. Private investigator services do not only help individuals but also businesses to be able to hire the best people and prevent fraud. If you are looking for the best private investigator, FORLETTA has the expertise and resources for your investigation needs. Call now for a free consultation.