Pennsylvania law has been modified to expand the restitution permitted in Identity Theft cases. In addition to all traditional restitution, the amendments provide for all reasonable expenses incurred by the victim, or on the victim’s behalf, to:
1) investigate the identity theft
2) bring or defend criminal and/or civil actions in court to redress the identity theft
3) repair any blemishes on the victim’s credit record
Perhaps most importantly, the amended law permits recovery of fees paid to attorneys, credit bureaus, and private investigators, as well as recovery of court costs and filing fees. It is very rare that Pennsylvania law permits recovery of professional fees, investigation fees, or courts costs. This will be a powerful new statute that will permit victims to enlist the aid of private attorneys, at the expense of the perpetrators, in an attempt to recoup any losses they have suffered. Our experience and expertise in Identity Theft cases leaves us uniquely positioned to benefit either the victims of Identity Theft or the accused, though obviously not within the same case.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Security Tip: How to secure your computer
Implement and maintain anti-virus, anti-malware software and firewalls.
Protect yourself against viruses and Trojan horses that may steal or modify the data on your own computer and leave you vulnerable.
Check your anti-virus software and your firewall regularly to
update the programs definitions.
Regularly scan your computers for spyware. Spyware or adware hidden in software programs may affect the performance of your computer and give attackers access to your data.
Keep Software up to date. Hackers will attack known problems or vulnerabilities.
Protect your computer by regularly checking for updates and installing your operating systems automatic updates.
Create separate user accounts. The more people that have access to your files the greater the risk that someone else may accidentally access, modify, and/or delete your files. The best way to protect your data is to have your access and account separate from other users. Only one (1) account per person.
Follow corporate policies and contractual obligations for handling and storing work-related information. If you use your computer for work-related purposes, make sure to follow any corporate policies for handling and storing the information. Our policies have been created and are frequently updated to protect proprietary information and customer data.
Dispose of sensitive information properly. Simply deleting a file does not completely erase it. To ensure that an attacker cannot access these files, make sure that you adequately erase sensitive files.
Protect yourself against viruses and Trojan horses that may steal or modify the data on your own computer and leave you vulnerable.
Check your anti-virus software and your firewall regularly to
update the programs definitions.
Regularly scan your computers for spyware. Spyware or adware hidden in software programs may affect the performance of your computer and give attackers access to your data.
Keep Software up to date. Hackers will attack known problems or vulnerabilities.
Protect your computer by regularly checking for updates and installing your operating systems automatic updates.
Create separate user accounts. The more people that have access to your files the greater the risk that someone else may accidentally access, modify, and/or delete your files. The best way to protect your data is to have your access and account separate from other users. Only one (1) account per person.
Follow corporate policies and contractual obligations for handling and storing work-related information. If you use your computer for work-related purposes, make sure to follow any corporate policies for handling and storing the information. Our policies have been created and are frequently updated to protect proprietary information and customer data.
Dispose of sensitive information properly. Simply deleting a file does not completely erase it. To ensure that an attacker cannot access these files, make sure that you adequately erase sensitive files.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Time saving tips for internet users
How many hours a week do you spend on Internet? Do you get frustrated in not being able to find just
what you're looking for in seconds rather than minutes? Would you like to get more of whatever it is
you desire for work or play using Internet?
According to Internet World Stats latest report there are 220 million U.S. Internet users or roughly
three-quarters of the population. If all of those users could save just 10 minutes per week using better
Internet technique that would be a productivity increase of almost two billion hours a year – a very
impressive number.
A recent informal poll reveals that a majority of experienced Internet users waste at least two hours per
week in fruitless or ineffective activities. With that in mind, here are 25 time-saving tips to increase the
productivity of Internet use.
1. Use keyboard short-cuts. Shortcuts can save many minutes each day and at the end of the
year it may add a week of productivity. By pressing two or three keys at the same time you can
dramatically speed up the manual processes that take more time when mousing. A favorite of
mine is Ctrl+C to copy something in the browser, Alt+Tab to switch to a document running in
another window then Ctrl+V to paste into the document and Alt+Tab to go back to the browser.
2. Set your browser (Google Chrome, Microsoft Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, etc.) start-up
page to something useful. Going into “Tools” and then “Internet Options” you'll find a field in
which you can type a web address. After you do this every time you start your browser it will
open to the specified page.
3. While were on the topic of setting a specific start page, consider a customized home page.
Google and Yahoo offer the capability to create a customized page with a dizzying array of
possible uses. Google has iGoogle and Yahoo has My Yahoo. They are similar in capabilities
but I prefer iGoogle for its lack of jarring animated advertising but I also have a MyYahoo page.
Sign up for a free account on either service and you'll be given the option to create a customized
page which is accessible from any computer anywhere in the world provided you have your
user name and password.
4. Use quote marks when searching for a person's first and last name or a phrase. This tells the
search engine to show you only that exact combination of words so try a person's name with
and without a middle name or letter. This literally improves searching at least 1,000 percent
almost every time compared to not using quotation marks around a search term.
5. After you've searched and clicked on a search result link do you read through all of the text to
locate what you originally sought via the search engine? Save many minutes each day by using
Ctrl+F to call up a search box on your computer, type in the original search term and it will
find the search term very quickly.
6. Do you really know what key words will give you exactly what you want to find? Sometimes
not. The “Directory Approach” might be more productive. Sites like dmoz.org present
information in categories. The deeper you go into categories and subcategories the more precise
the information in a particular category.
7. Are you using automatic systems? If you are seeking a continuous stream of information on a
very specific topic then set up an automatic search. It finds and forwards an email to you
containing the desired information you want on an ongoing basis. Try Google Alerts and note
the ability to specify the Internet sources you want to monitor. If you choose “comprehensive”
from the drop down selections you will set up a very wide-scope “dragnet.”
8. While we're saving time with automatic systems consider RSS feeds too. Real Simple
Syndication enables you to monitor changing information from a web site. For example,
Craigslist provides that capability after you've searched for something. There's a tiny “RSS” at
the bottom right of an individual listing. Copy that link and use it with a customized home page
like iGoogle or My Yahoo.
9. While I'm applauding Google I'll mention Google Desktop. This is a good example of a
desktop search tool that enables you to rapidly search your hard-drive and/or a network drive
to find desired information on your own computer. Download it from desktop.google.com and
install it on your computer. Two nice features – when you do a web search using Google the
Desktop software runs in the background and will display matches on your computer in the
space above the regular web search results.
10. Make sure your computer is cleaned and (no joke) dusted. The later won't save you any time
but cleaning out dust could save your power supply from overheating and burning out.
Regarding speedier Internet use, cache, cookies and a whole lot of other stuff puts a brake on
your surfing speed. Defragment the hard drive. While the Microsoft Windows operating system
has programs (usually tucked away in Programs>Accessories>System Tools) I use a great
program called CCleaner. If you really like it you can make a voluntary contribution.
11. Where do I find all of these great free programs? The only site I fully trust is download.com.
If you only want to review freeware do a keyword search first then click on the By License
Type: free link. You can quickly and efficiently review all types of software there and compare
offerings from competitors too.
12. Use email filters to manage the incoming flow. Most of the time you just want to read
important email. Filters (see Microsoft “Mail Rules” and Mozilla Thunderbird) enable you to
specify such criteria as sender, keywords, etc. and actions like deleting, routing to a specified
folder (Google uses “Labels”) so they don't clog up your in-box. Yahoo combines filters with
email or cell phone notification. If a message is filtered you have the option of having Yahoo
send a notification message to your cell phone.
13. You can go a step further with Yahoo Mobile. If you have a My Yahoo page you can use the
Mobile Alert function to stay up to date on just about anything. You'll only pay for SMS
messages but you'll avoid the surcharge that some cell phone plans charge for this type of
service.
14.Centralize your calendars. Perhaps the first important step toward good time management is
to use only one calendar. There are many free web-based calendars but I firmly believe
Google's is the most useful. There are many features available but the two I like best are
sharing functions and event reminders sent via email or SMS.
15.Get help while you sleep. Why struggle over a challenging question or problem when there's
likely to be an expert somewhere who will be happy to help you? There are many “Answers”
type sites where you can pose your problem and hopefully get an answer in a short time. Yahoo
Answers is a good example of this type of Internet Resource.
16. Too busy to read a long document? If you download an Adobe PDF document and you're
using Adobe Acrobat Reader 9.2 you can activate the “Read Aloud” feature. If you have a
pocket digital audio recorder connect it to the headphone output of your computer. It may take a
little time to do the first time but thereafter you can have audio recordings of many PDF
documents.
17.Call a meeting using chat to avoid the walk, drive or flight to a central meeting place. There
are many chat and collaboration services, many of which are free, that provide all kinds of
communications features way beyond just typing text back and forth. Check out several
common chat services for details and be sure to look at Adobe ConnectNow.
18. Find images for your project using Google Advanced Image Search. The form provides a way
to find exactly what you need including a selection for copyright status.
19.Use the new People Metasearch tools to find people. This is an interesting development and a
few people might consider it intrusive but these powerful sites do the job. Try 123people,
PeekYou, or pipl to see how this type of search works.
20. Speaking of people search, do you ever need to find public records? Here's a tip that works
very well in Google. Just search for a jurisdiction (municipality, county, state) name and the
type of record you are seeking.
21.Are you a frequent user of multiple blogs and/or social networks? If so, try time-saving
posting services like atomkeep, Flock, Ping.fm, or posterous. These “roboposters” can save
you time and keep all of your friends and business contacts efficiently updated on your doings.
22. There an unknowable amount of very high quality information available via Internet but not all
of it is free. For example, you can avoid the trip to a newstand and the purchase of an expensive
paper-based magazine by using sites like goreadgreen, issuu, zinio Recently I needed a
specific article from a popular national magazine. By the time I heard about it the magazine was
no longer available but I got it via zinio for a small charge.
23. If you find yourself hitting a lot of dead ends while trying to find something you need here's a
tactic you will find useful. Each time you find one of the bits and pieces or leads to follow copy
it from the browser into a document running in another window on your computer. After
collecting several of these initial leads copy them into a search engine and follow threads. This
prevents you from going too far on each lead during your initial search. See tip number one for
shortcuts to execute this tactic quickly and easily.
24.You might even benefit from using an overall framework for Internet activities. My PROACtive
process (Plan, Retrieve, Organize, Analyze and Communicate) helps. I teach this in my
workshops and webinars.
what you're looking for in seconds rather than minutes? Would you like to get more of whatever it is
you desire for work or play using Internet?
According to Internet World Stats latest report there are 220 million U.S. Internet users or roughly
three-quarters of the population. If all of those users could save just 10 minutes per week using better
Internet technique that would be a productivity increase of almost two billion hours a year – a very
impressive number.
A recent informal poll reveals that a majority of experienced Internet users waste at least two hours per
week in fruitless or ineffective activities. With that in mind, here are 25 time-saving tips to increase the
productivity of Internet use.
1. Use keyboard short-cuts. Shortcuts can save many minutes each day and at the end of the
year it may add a week of productivity. By pressing two or three keys at the same time you can
dramatically speed up the manual processes that take more time when mousing. A favorite of
mine is Ctrl+C to copy something in the browser, Alt+Tab to switch to a document running in
another window then Ctrl+V to paste into the document and Alt+Tab to go back to the browser.
2. Set your browser (Google Chrome, Microsoft Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, etc.) start-up
page to something useful. Going into “Tools” and then “Internet Options” you'll find a field in
which you can type a web address. After you do this every time you start your browser it will
open to the specified page.
3. While were on the topic of setting a specific start page, consider a customized home page.
Google and Yahoo offer the capability to create a customized page with a dizzying array of
possible uses. Google has iGoogle and Yahoo has My Yahoo. They are similar in capabilities
but I prefer iGoogle for its lack of jarring animated advertising but I also have a MyYahoo page.
Sign up for a free account on either service and you'll be given the option to create a customized
page which is accessible from any computer anywhere in the world provided you have your
user name and password.
4. Use quote marks when searching for a person's first and last name or a phrase. This tells the
search engine to show you only that exact combination of words so try a person's name with
and without a middle name or letter. This literally improves searching at least 1,000 percent
almost every time compared to not using quotation marks around a search term.
5. After you've searched and clicked on a search result link do you read through all of the text to
locate what you originally sought via the search engine? Save many minutes each day by using
Ctrl+F to call up a search box on your computer, type in the original search term and it will
find the search term very quickly.
6. Do you really know what key words will give you exactly what you want to find? Sometimes
not. The “Directory Approach” might be more productive. Sites like dmoz.org present
information in categories. The deeper you go into categories and subcategories the more precise
the information in a particular category.
7. Are you using automatic systems? If you are seeking a continuous stream of information on a
very specific topic then set up an automatic search. It finds and forwards an email to you
containing the desired information you want on an ongoing basis. Try Google Alerts and note
the ability to specify the Internet sources you want to monitor. If you choose “comprehensive”
from the drop down selections you will set up a very wide-scope “dragnet.”
8. While we're saving time with automatic systems consider RSS feeds too. Real Simple
Syndication enables you to monitor changing information from a web site. For example,
Craigslist provides that capability after you've searched for something. There's a tiny “RSS” at
the bottom right of an individual listing. Copy that link and use it with a customized home page
like iGoogle or My Yahoo.
9. While I'm applauding Google I'll mention Google Desktop. This is a good example of a
desktop search tool that enables you to rapidly search your hard-drive and/or a network drive
to find desired information on your own computer. Download it from desktop.google.com and
install it on your computer. Two nice features – when you do a web search using Google the
Desktop software runs in the background and will display matches on your computer in the
space above the regular web search results.
10. Make sure your computer is cleaned and (no joke) dusted. The later won't save you any time
but cleaning out dust could save your power supply from overheating and burning out.
Regarding speedier Internet use, cache, cookies and a whole lot of other stuff puts a brake on
your surfing speed. Defragment the hard drive. While the Microsoft Windows operating system
has programs (usually tucked away in Programs>Accessories>System Tools) I use a great
program called CCleaner. If you really like it you can make a voluntary contribution.
11. Where do I find all of these great free programs? The only site I fully trust is download.com.
If you only want to review freeware do a keyword search first then click on the By License
Type: free link. You can quickly and efficiently review all types of software there and compare
offerings from competitors too.
12. Use email filters to manage the incoming flow. Most of the time you just want to read
important email. Filters (see Microsoft “Mail Rules” and Mozilla Thunderbird) enable you to
specify such criteria as sender, keywords, etc. and actions like deleting, routing to a specified
folder (Google uses “Labels”) so they don't clog up your in-box. Yahoo combines filters with
email or cell phone notification. If a message is filtered you have the option of having Yahoo
send a notification message to your cell phone.
13. You can go a step further with Yahoo Mobile. If you have a My Yahoo page you can use the
Mobile Alert function to stay up to date on just about anything. You'll only pay for SMS
messages but you'll avoid the surcharge that some cell phone plans charge for this type of
service.
14.Centralize your calendars. Perhaps the first important step toward good time management is
to use only one calendar. There are many free web-based calendars but I firmly believe
Google's is the most useful. There are many features available but the two I like best are
sharing functions and event reminders sent via email or SMS.
15.Get help while you sleep. Why struggle over a challenging question or problem when there's
likely to be an expert somewhere who will be happy to help you? There are many “Answers”
type sites where you can pose your problem and hopefully get an answer in a short time. Yahoo
Answers is a good example of this type of Internet Resource.
16. Too busy to read a long document? If you download an Adobe PDF document and you're
using Adobe Acrobat Reader 9.2 you can activate the “Read Aloud” feature. If you have a
pocket digital audio recorder connect it to the headphone output of your computer. It may take a
little time to do the first time but thereafter you can have audio recordings of many PDF
documents.
17.Call a meeting using chat to avoid the walk, drive or flight to a central meeting place. There
are many chat and collaboration services, many of which are free, that provide all kinds of
communications features way beyond just typing text back and forth. Check out several
common chat services for details and be sure to look at Adobe ConnectNow.
18. Find images for your project using Google Advanced Image Search. The form provides a way
to find exactly what you need including a selection for copyright status.
19.Use the new People Metasearch tools to find people. This is an interesting development and a
few people might consider it intrusive but these powerful sites do the job. Try 123people,
PeekYou, or pipl to see how this type of search works.
20. Speaking of people search, do you ever need to find public records? Here's a tip that works
very well in Google. Just search for a jurisdiction (municipality, county, state) name and the
type of record you are seeking.
21.Are you a frequent user of multiple blogs and/or social networks? If so, try time-saving
posting services like atomkeep, Flock, Ping.fm, or posterous. These “roboposters” can save
you time and keep all of your friends and business contacts efficiently updated on your doings.
22. There an unknowable amount of very high quality information available via Internet but not all
of it is free. For example, you can avoid the trip to a newstand and the purchase of an expensive
paper-based magazine by using sites like goreadgreen, issuu, zinio Recently I needed a
specific article from a popular national magazine. By the time I heard about it the magazine was
no longer available but I got it via zinio for a small charge.
23. If you find yourself hitting a lot of dead ends while trying to find something you need here's a
tactic you will find useful. Each time you find one of the bits and pieces or leads to follow copy
it from the browser into a document running in another window on your computer. After
collecting several of these initial leads copy them into a search engine and follow threads. This
prevents you from going too far on each lead during your initial search. See tip number one for
shortcuts to execute this tactic quickly and easily.
24.You might even benefit from using an overall framework for Internet activities. My PROACtive
process (Plan, Retrieve, Organize, Analyze and Communicate) helps. I teach this in my
workshops and webinars.
Friday, November 13, 2009
websites
Do you have websites you use for your work ? Would you be interested in the list I complied? I have about 23 pages, in a booklet type format.
Granted you might find some of these on Black book on line, but i check mine daily and these are ones i have used or at least looked at. I updated my list 1-12-2010 so the links are fresh.
Email me at harrisinvestigations@verizon.net to purchase it!
Granted you might find some of these on Black book on line, but i check mine daily and these are ones i have used or at least looked at. I updated my list 1-12-2010 so the links are fresh.
Email me at harrisinvestigations@verizon.net to purchase it!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
What really does a Private Investigator do?
Do you REALLY know what a private Investigator does?
Is your spouse cheating? If you think they are they probably are!
Premployment background checks? Do you check them out before you higher them or just after they steal from you?
Do you need documents served? We do subpeonas, summons, complaints anything all, within the guidelines.
Scene or vehicle photos?
Surveillance?
Household checks (yes ask me what they are!!)
DMV searches
Product Liablity Searches
Statements?
Skip Traces?
We are licensed in PA, DE and NJ ..
We have staffed offices in all those states as well!
call toll free 888-484-9827,
email harrisinvestigations@verizon.net
Our websites: harrisinvetigations.net, deptfordnjpi.com, montcopapi.com, lansdalepapi.com, wilmingtondepi.com, or delawarepi.net
Is your spouse cheating? If you think they are they probably are!
Premployment background checks? Do you check them out before you higher them or just after they steal from you?
Do you need documents served? We do subpeonas, summons, complaints anything all, within the guidelines.
Scene or vehicle photos?
Surveillance?
Household checks (yes ask me what they are!!)
DMV searches
Product Liablity Searches
Statements?
Skip Traces?
We are licensed in PA, DE and NJ ..
We have staffed offices in all those states as well!
call toll free 888-484-9827,
email harrisinvestigations@verizon.net
Our websites: harrisinvetigations.net, deptfordnjpi.com, montcopapi.com, lansdalepapi.com, wilmingtondepi.com, or delawarepi.net
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Harris Investigations, LLC information
Our Background
Harris Investigations, LLC is proud to be able to supply you with their information.
Our company founder, Michele Harris, has been working for Pennsylvania Private Investigation Agencies for over 20 years. She has an A.S. in Criminal Justice. Michele, along her husband Charles, opened their own firm in 2005. Both are Licensed Investigators in PA and DE and have their own specialties. Michele recently became licensed in New Jersey. Our Wilmington, DE office opened in 2007 and our Deptford, NJ office opened in 2009.
Harris Investigations, LLC specializes in last minute and rush assignments. Most of your assignments can have results on your desk within 48-72 hours. They cover the Tri-State area on the ground, with assistance from partner licensed agencies in NY and Maryland.
Your case is very important to us. From start to finish, each referral is handled individually, by one member of our highly qualified office staff.
Harris Investigations, LLC is Licensed, Bonded and Insured in Pennsylvania, Delaware and New Jersey. Copies are available upon request. They are members of PALI and NAPPS. Their company also has representatives who are Notaries of PA and DE. Physical office addresses disclosed upon request.
 Services Provided
Activity Checks
Assets Searches-customized to your needs
Background searches-customized to your needs
Civil record searches
Corporate record searches and UCC filings
Criminal record searches
DMV searches-aka Motor vehicle searches
Educational background searches
Employment verification
Household checks
Litigation support
Medical Fraud Investigations
Modified Household checks
Newspaper and TV story searches
PO Box breaks
Police reports
Pre-employment screening
Process Services-Subpoenas, Complaints, Writs, etc.
Product Liability Investigations
Property searches
Professional license searches
Scene/Vehicle photos
Skip Tracing
Utility Searches
Vehicle photos
Witness statements
This is only a PARTIAL listing of services we offer. We specialize in the unusual and unique results, if your request is not listed, please feel free to contact us. All services are offered NATIONWIDE
Harris Investigations, LLC is proud to be able to supply you with their information.
Our company founder, Michele Harris, has been working for Pennsylvania Private Investigation Agencies for over 20 years. She has an A.S. in Criminal Justice. Michele, along her husband Charles, opened their own firm in 2005. Both are Licensed Investigators in PA and DE and have their own specialties. Michele recently became licensed in New Jersey. Our Wilmington, DE office opened in 2007 and our Deptford, NJ office opened in 2009.
Harris Investigations, LLC specializes in last minute and rush assignments. Most of your assignments can have results on your desk within 48-72 hours. They cover the Tri-State area on the ground, with assistance from partner licensed agencies in NY and Maryland.
Your case is very important to us. From start to finish, each referral is handled individually, by one member of our highly qualified office staff.
Harris Investigations, LLC is Licensed, Bonded and Insured in Pennsylvania, Delaware and New Jersey. Copies are available upon request. They are members of PALI and NAPPS. Their company also has representatives who are Notaries of PA and DE. Physical office addresses disclosed upon request.
 Services Provided
Activity Checks
Assets Searches-customized to your needs
Background searches-customized to your needs
Civil record searches
Corporate record searches and UCC filings
Criminal record searches
DMV searches-aka Motor vehicle searches
Educational background searches
Employment verification
Household checks
Litigation support
Medical Fraud Investigations
Modified Household checks
Newspaper and TV story searches
PO Box breaks
Police reports
Pre-employment screening
Process Services-Subpoenas, Complaints, Writs, etc.
Product Liability Investigations
Property searches
Professional license searches
Scene/Vehicle photos
Skip Tracing
Utility Searches
Vehicle photos
Witness statements
This is only a PARTIAL listing of services we offer. We specialize in the unusual and unique results, if your request is not listed, please feel free to contact us. All services are offered NATIONWIDE
Friday, November 6, 2009
Moonlight Courier
Moonlight Courier Services started in 2009, by the President and CEO, Charles A Harris, III. Mr. Harris has a Private Detective License in both the State of Pennsylvania and Delaware. He also holds a class B license, which permits him to move larger items for his clients.
Started out of needs of clients, the company has blossomed into what it is today.
Mr. Harris and his team have the ability to pick up documents, serve documents, copy documents, get documents file, move and haul items quickly and transport individuals and displays if needed. Same day service is available in most situations.
Their main office is in Lansdale, Pa. They have an office in Cranberry Township, Pa as well as Wilmington, De. A Deptford, NJ office will be opening soon.
Moonlight has a coverage area of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware and DC. We have partner companies nationwide that will be able to assist you as well.
Started out of needs of clients, the company has blossomed into what it is today.
Mr. Harris and his team have the ability to pick up documents, serve documents, copy documents, get documents file, move and haul items quickly and transport individuals and displays if needed. Same day service is available in most situations.
Their main office is in Lansdale, Pa. They have an office in Cranberry Township, Pa as well as Wilmington, De. A Deptford, NJ office will be opening soon.
Moonlight has a coverage area of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware and DC. We have partner companies nationwide that will be able to assist you as well.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
marketing a PI business to others
“When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” -Joseph P. Kennedy
It’s tough being a private investigator (PI) during this recession, just as it’s tough for many small business owners. But now’s not the time to get static. Instead, get dynamic. Rather than wait for the phone to ring with a new case (the popular image in movies and books of what PIs do when business is slow), create a list of marketing tasks to attract new clients.
You don’t have the money to advertise? You think marketing means shelling money out of your already stretched finances? Think again. There are numerous free, or relatively cheap, ways to advertise your PI business, some of which are listed below:
Create brochures. There are easy-to-use, free templates on the Internet that you can download (for example, type “brochure templates free” in your browser). Fill the template with content about your skills, background, investigative expertise, memberships, and tools. Add quotes from satisfied clients… Highlight your contact information (name, phone number, website, blog, etc.), then print. For the cost of envelopes and stamps, you can mail brochures, or skip the mailing costs and take them along on cold calls, leaving one with every office you visit.
Write a letter of introduction about your business and services. Easier than making a brochure is simply writing a letter. Write a punchy opening paragraph that tells them why they want your services. Follow up with a brief list of your skills and expertise. Let them know how to reach you. Mail letters or take them along on cold calls.
Make business cards. For little money, you can purchase business card forms at an office supply store. For free, you can download a business card template off the web. Be succinct as space is at a premium. Name your business, contact information, key skills. Carry the business cards with you at all times – hand them out to people you meet, friends, associates, and other contacts.
Update your website. Add new skills you’ve developed, investigative courses you’ve taken, quotes from satisfied clients, new organizations you’ve joined. Write a short article about your area of expertise, the steps you took to successfully complete a case, or a review of a new investigative tool or book. If you don’t have a website, there are Internet sites that offer free websites to their members (in your browser, search for “free websites”).
Advertise online. Check where your competitors are advertising online, then visit the site and check their requirements for listing your business. Many offer free listings to all who register.
Join reputable PI organizations. For a listing of state, international, and miscellaneous PI organizations, check out http://www.irbsearch.com/links_resources.shtml. Not always free, but worth the price of membership.
Start a blog. You can build a free blog through sites such as blogger, WordPress, LiveJournal. Not sure how to build a blog? In your browser, type “How do I create a blog?” and see how many links display!
Write articles. Lucky for you, the Internet is hungry for content. Check out online article sites, study their requirements, and start submitting articles. Write about what you know–for example, a how-to article for an investigative specialization, a list of recommended equipment for a PI office, a checklist for people wanting to hire a PI, etc. Make sure to include contact information in your byline (your website link, blog link, business email address, etc.).
Speak to a group. Offer to speak to an organization on a topic of interest to them. And don’t forget to bring your business cards!
Start an e-newsletter. Easy to do for free on sites like Yahoo! Add a sign-up link on your website and/or blog. There are many Internet articles on how to set up an e-newsletter (for example, type “how to set up an e-newsletter” in your browser).
Join social networking sites. Doesn’t cost anything to sign up on Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn, and other social networking sites. Post links to your investigative website, blog, articles, etc. Offer investigative tips, insights, resources. These are opportunities to network with other PIs as well as attract new clients.
Broadcast your PI business on YouTube. Use your video camera to film a short piece about an investigative technique, trend, or tool. Add your contact information at the beginning and end of the video so potential clients will know how to reach you. After you download the link to YouTube, share that link on your website, in articles, on your blog, networking sites, etc. Not sure how to structure your video? Check out YouTube for examples of what other PIs have done in theirs.
When the tough times end, and they always do, don’t stop marketing. Continue keeping your business, expertise, and contact information visible by following the suggestions above. Just as the tough get going, they also keep doing.
It’s tough being a private investigator (PI) during this recession, just as it’s tough for many small business owners. But now’s not the time to get static. Instead, get dynamic. Rather than wait for the phone to ring with a new case (the popular image in movies and books of what PIs do when business is slow), create a list of marketing tasks to attract new clients.
You don’t have the money to advertise? You think marketing means shelling money out of your already stretched finances? Think again. There are numerous free, or relatively cheap, ways to advertise your PI business, some of which are listed below:
Create brochures. There are easy-to-use, free templates on the Internet that you can download (for example, type “brochure templates free” in your browser). Fill the template with content about your skills, background, investigative expertise, memberships, and tools. Add quotes from satisfied clients… Highlight your contact information (name, phone number, website, blog, etc.), then print. For the cost of envelopes and stamps, you can mail brochures, or skip the mailing costs and take them along on cold calls, leaving one with every office you visit.
Write a letter of introduction about your business and services. Easier than making a brochure is simply writing a letter. Write a punchy opening paragraph that tells them why they want your services. Follow up with a brief list of your skills and expertise. Let them know how to reach you. Mail letters or take them along on cold calls.
Make business cards. For little money, you can purchase business card forms at an office supply store. For free, you can download a business card template off the web. Be succinct as space is at a premium. Name your business, contact information, key skills. Carry the business cards with you at all times – hand them out to people you meet, friends, associates, and other contacts.
Update your website. Add new skills you’ve developed, investigative courses you’ve taken, quotes from satisfied clients, new organizations you’ve joined. Write a short article about your area of expertise, the steps you took to successfully complete a case, or a review of a new investigative tool or book. If you don’t have a website, there are Internet sites that offer free websites to their members (in your browser, search for “free websites”).
Advertise online. Check where your competitors are advertising online, then visit the site and check their requirements for listing your business. Many offer free listings to all who register.
Join reputable PI organizations. For a listing of state, international, and miscellaneous PI organizations, check out http://www.irbsearch.com/links_resources.shtml. Not always free, but worth the price of membership.
Start a blog. You can build a free blog through sites such as blogger, WordPress, LiveJournal. Not sure how to build a blog? In your browser, type “How do I create a blog?” and see how many links display!
Write articles. Lucky for you, the Internet is hungry for content. Check out online article sites, study their requirements, and start submitting articles. Write about what you know–for example, a how-to article for an investigative specialization, a list of recommended equipment for a PI office, a checklist for people wanting to hire a PI, etc. Make sure to include contact information in your byline (your website link, blog link, business email address, etc.).
Speak to a group. Offer to speak to an organization on a topic of interest to them. And don’t forget to bring your business cards!
Start an e-newsletter. Easy to do for free on sites like Yahoo! Add a sign-up link on your website and/or blog. There are many Internet articles on how to set up an e-newsletter (for example, type “how to set up an e-newsletter” in your browser).
Join social networking sites. Doesn’t cost anything to sign up on Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn, and other social networking sites. Post links to your investigative website, blog, articles, etc. Offer investigative tips, insights, resources. These are opportunities to network with other PIs as well as attract new clients.
Broadcast your PI business on YouTube. Use your video camera to film a short piece about an investigative technique, trend, or tool. Add your contact information at the beginning and end of the video so potential clients will know how to reach you. After you download the link to YouTube, share that link on your website, in articles, on your blog, networking sites, etc. Not sure how to structure your video? Check out YouTube for examples of what other PIs have done in theirs.
When the tough times end, and they always do, don’t stop marketing. Continue keeping your business, expertise, and contact information visible by following the suggestions above. Just as the tough get going, they also keep doing.
DateCheck phone app gets the 411 on suitors
Program does varying degrees of legal snooping, but some question its use
A new program for mobile phones, DateCheck by Intelius, does background checks on prospective suitors for a range of fees. Some like the idea, while others think it goes a bit too far.
link: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33423647/ns/technology_and_science-tech_and_gadgets/
Program does varying degrees of legal snooping, but some question its use
A new program for mobile phones, DateCheck by Intelius, does background checks on prospective suitors for a range of fees. Some like the idea, while others think it goes a bit too far.
link: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33423647/ns/technology_and_science-tech_and_gadgets/
Monday, October 26, 2009
Infidelity, adultery, cheating, being unfaithful, having an affair...
...whatever you care to call it, is likely to be one of the most painful and devastating things that can happen to you. Not knowing if your spouse is cheating on you or not is equally as painful. Even the prospect of a loved one being unfaithful is painful and extremely disruptive. Each private investigator at Harris Investigations, LLC helps clients like you with this issue every day. We know that you need a private investigator to get you proof so that you can move forward with your life.
...whatever you care to call it, is likely to be one of the most painful and devastating things that can happen to you. Not knowing if your spouse is cheating on you or not is equally as painful. Even the prospect of a loved one being unfaithful is painful and extremely disruptive. Each private investigator at Harris Investigations, LLC helps clients like you with this issue every day. We know that you need a private investigator to get you proof so that you can move forward with your life.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
What a Private Investigator can do for you...
WHAT CAN AN INVESTIGATOR DO FOR AN ATTORNEY?
A PRESENTATION BY HARRIS INVESTIGATIONS, LLC
Bonded, Licensed and Insured in Pa, De, and NJ
I. HIRING AN INVESTIGATOR
II. TRIAL PREPARATION
III. WITNESSES
IV. EVIDENCE
V. RECORDS
VI. SURVEILLANCE / VIDEO / PHOTOGRAPHY
VII. POST TRIAL
I. HIRING AN INVESTIGATOR
Request yearly copies of Private Detective License, Bond and Liability Insurance
Verify insurance with their insurance company or request your company be added to their policy
County requirement for Detective License: minimal bond (usually $10,000) – does not cover you should the investigation go wrong or the investigator’s information be incorrect
II. TRIAL PREPARATION
Why should an attorney use an investigator?
Private Investigator vs. Attorney
· More cost effective (charge less)
· Better results
· Do not divulge what side they are working for
· Trained to find existing laws as opposed to people and facts
· Limited time to execute full investigations
· Must divulge which side they are working for
Prepare trial exhibits including maps, enlarged photos, diagrams, overlays, jury instructions, etc.
Prepare case chronology
Prepare reports and personal testimony as requested
Prepare alphabetical witness summary with name, address, telephone numbers, and short statement of relationship to the case
Assist with large case management
Pick up and review records pursuant to subpoena duces tecum, court order or signed release
A PRESENTATION BY HARRIS INVESTIGATIONS, LLC
Bonded, Licensed and Insured in Pa, De, and NJ
I. HIRING AN INVESTIGATOR
II. TRIAL PREPARATION
III. WITNESSES
IV. EVIDENCE
V. RECORDS
VI. SURVEILLANCE / VIDEO / PHOTOGRAPHY
VII. POST TRIAL
I. HIRING AN INVESTIGATOR
Request yearly copies of Private Detective License, Bond and Liability Insurance
Verify insurance with their insurance company or request your company be added to their policy
County requirement for Detective License: minimal bond (usually $10,000) – does not cover you should the investigation go wrong or the investigator’s information be incorrect
II. TRIAL PREPARATION
Why should an attorney use an investigator?
Private Investigator vs. Attorney
· More cost effective (charge less)
· Better results
· Do not divulge what side they are working for
· Trained to find existing laws as opposed to people and facts
· Limited time to execute full investigations
· Must divulge which side they are working for
Prepare trial exhibits including maps, enlarged photos, diagrams, overlays, jury instructions, etc.
Prepare case chronology
Prepare reports and personal testimony as requested
Prepare alphabetical witness summary with name, address, telephone numbers, and short statement of relationship to the case
Assist with large case management
Pick up and review records pursuant to subpoena duces tecum, court order or signed release
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Monday, October 12, 2009
Pa Court Rules Trademark law too vague
Pennsylvania no longer has a law prohibiting the use of trademarks without permission, as the highest court in the commonwealth declared the Trademark Counterfeiting Statute unconstitutional last Monday.Two Centre County cases were factored into the Pennsylvania Supreme Court's 4-3 decision, which said the law was too vague and breached First Amendment rights.In one case, police arrested a man in May 2007 after finding boxes of counterfeit Nike shoes in his car during a speeding stop. The other case involved a man selling hats with the Penn State logo near Beaver Stadium in 2008.Defense attorney Karen Muir, who defended the man police said had counterfeit shoes, said the law was too vague and could apply to the smallest of things.Muir said she and Centre County Public Defender Sean McGraw appealed their cases to the Supreme Court in 2008, after Centre County Judge Thomas King Kistler said the law was too vague -- and the Pennsylvania Supreme Court agreed. "We are pleased that the Pennsylvania Supreme Court upheld Judge Kistler's decision," Muir said. "Kistler was saying the statue was unconstitutional, so no one should be charged or convicted."Justice Max Baer wrote that the law was unconstitutionally vague and overbroad, applying to constitutionally protected activity such as writing the words "Penn State" on a political sign.Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Aaron Tiracorda said he's been involved with six to 12 incidents in the past nine years involving trademark laws."It's no longer a crime," Tiracorda said. "As far as I'm concerned, there is nothing we can do because there is no legislation against it."Tiracorda said most of the cases he's encountered have been along Interstate 80 with items coming from New York. Many suspects are found transporting counterfeit Nike shoes, various brand-name clothing and Louis Vuitton handbags."We're trained to identify it along the roadside," he said. "And once we encounter it, we have to photograph the items and send it to different companies to authenticate it for court purposes."Centre County District Attorney Michael Madeira said no arrests will be made under the nullified law, but local and federal copyright laws still exist and could be applied in certain areas, including Beaver Stadium and across state lines. Penn State Police Deputy Director Tyrone Parham said his department is prohibited from charging anyone under the stricken law, and they haven't since the Supreme Court appeal.In a statement released on Penn State Live, the university said the high court's ruling will not affect Penn State's ownership of its trademarks. Individuals and businesses still have to obtain approval from the university to use Penn State's trademarks, according to the statement.Muir said she doesn't know how future cases will be handled, but she credits McGraw for the change in state law."Sean McGraw paved the way for these arguments," Muir said.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
If you have an I Phone!!
http://tinyurl.com/qw2pweYou might want to look at some of those apps your bought!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Back from Continuing Education Classes
Not all PI's take these sort of thing, but we at Harris Investigations, take them in several states. We just took two days worth in Carlisle, Pa and we learned alot . We are expanding our company as well. We have offices in Pa, NJ, and De. Yes ACTUAL offices, tho PO boxes are listed on the websites.
We are available for presentations (What a Private Investigator Can do for an Attorney/Paralegal/Claim rep) and available to talk about many other things.
We hope to hear from you soon.. POST SOME QUESTIONS!!
Harris Investigations, LLC
1-888-484-9827
We are available for presentations (What a Private Investigator Can do for an Attorney/Paralegal/Claim rep) and available to talk about many other things.
We hope to hear from you soon.. POST SOME QUESTIONS!!
Harris Investigations, LLC
1-888-484-9827
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
top 7 ways to prevent identify theft
1. Do not carry your Social Security number in your wallet or purse. If your social security number is listed on your driver’s license, health insurance card, or checkbook, request to have it reissued with the sensitive information removed.
2. Make a list of all your credit card account numbers and bank account numbers with customer service phone numbers, and keep it in a safe place. An easy way to do this is to photocopy or scan the front and back of all the contents of your wallet regularly. This will make it easier to contact the creditors in case of theft or loss, as well as replace items such as your health insurance card and driver’s license.
3. Review your credit report annually and correct any mistakes promptly. Credit reports are available for free from http://www.annualcreditreport.com/. This central site allows you to request a free credit file disclosure, commonly called a credit report, once every 12 months from each of the nationwide consumer credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. At no time should you have to enter a credit card number or provide other type of payment for these services. What I do is to request one credit report from each bureau every four months. The information is fairly common so there’s no need for you to get all three reports at the same time.
4. Password protect your PDA’s, laptops, etc. Safeguard these items as you would your wallet or purse. Although, those passwords can be broken by a skilled hacker, you will want to at least have a deterrent in place for that petty thief.
Memorize your Social Security number, passwords, and PIN numbers. If you must write them down, do not carry them with you. For good tips on choosing a password read this article on: How to pick a good password.
5. Clean out your wallet or purse frequently. Do not carry around your social security card, birth certificate, or passport unless absolutely necessary. Remove receipts or statements with your account numbers on them, then shred or file as appropriate.
Shred your old statements and other sensitive documents. Invest in a cross-cut or confetti type shredder. Destroy anything with personal information that can be used in identity theft, such as account numbers, social security numbers, pre-approved credit applications, cash advance checks, etc.
6. Keep your phone number and address unlisted. Pay the additional fees, if necessary.
Remove rarely used credit cards from your wallet or purse. Cancel any credit cards that you no longer need. Make sure your credit report reflects the account closures.
7. Be wary of anyone who tries to solicit sensitive information from you over the phone. If they claim to be from a company you do business with, they should already have your account number, address, etc. on record. You should never be asked for your password or PIN. If you are suspicious, ask the caller for a number they can be reached, and compare it to the information in your records.
2. Make a list of all your credit card account numbers and bank account numbers with customer service phone numbers, and keep it in a safe place. An easy way to do this is to photocopy or scan the front and back of all the contents of your wallet regularly. This will make it easier to contact the creditors in case of theft or loss, as well as replace items such as your health insurance card and driver’s license.
3. Review your credit report annually and correct any mistakes promptly. Credit reports are available for free from http://www.annualcreditreport.com/. This central site allows you to request a free credit file disclosure, commonly called a credit report, once every 12 months from each of the nationwide consumer credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. At no time should you have to enter a credit card number or provide other type of payment for these services. What I do is to request one credit report from each bureau every four months. The information is fairly common so there’s no need for you to get all three reports at the same time.
4. Password protect your PDA’s, laptops, etc. Safeguard these items as you would your wallet or purse. Although, those passwords can be broken by a skilled hacker, you will want to at least have a deterrent in place for that petty thief.
Memorize your Social Security number, passwords, and PIN numbers. If you must write them down, do not carry them with you. For good tips on choosing a password read this article on: How to pick a good password.
5. Clean out your wallet or purse frequently. Do not carry around your social security card, birth certificate, or passport unless absolutely necessary. Remove receipts or statements with your account numbers on them, then shred or file as appropriate.
Shred your old statements and other sensitive documents. Invest in a cross-cut or confetti type shredder. Destroy anything with personal information that can be used in identity theft, such as account numbers, social security numbers, pre-approved credit applications, cash advance checks, etc.
6. Keep your phone number and address unlisted. Pay the additional fees, if necessary.
Remove rarely used credit cards from your wallet or purse. Cancel any credit cards that you no longer need. Make sure your credit report reflects the account closures.
7. Be wary of anyone who tries to solicit sensitive information from you over the phone. If they claim to be from a company you do business with, they should already have your account number, address, etc. on record. You should never be asked for your password or PIN. If you are suspicious, ask the caller for a number they can be reached, and compare it to the information in your records.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
daily PI news updates
Want the best place to find updates relative to the PI world?
http://feeds.feedburner.com/PINewswire
Its an excellent place to start!
http://feeds.feedburner.com/PINewswire
Its an excellent place to start!
What a Private Investigator can do for you...
Whether is follow a cheating spouse, checking up on your employees, pre employment background checks or mystery shopping, Private Investigators can assist you in many ways. At Harris Investigatoins, LLC we are a full service agency. We can do all of the above things and many many more. We offer armed and unarmed security (only in the State of Pa). Sweeps of your office, voice stress analysis (differnt than polygraph but as effective if not better, surveillance, skiptracing, DMV work, processs service and MUCH MUCH MORE.
Most of our clients are Major Law Firms nationwide (references on our website harrisinvestigations.net), and Insurance Companies. Believe it or not, we also do alot of work for other private investigators, nationwide.
We are a family owned and operated company, with most of our employees family members.
We are Small enough to care yet Large enough to serve.
Give us a try.. toll free 888-484-9827
We have licenses to operate in Pa, De and NJ.. With 4 offices to suit your needs!
Most of our clients are Major Law Firms nationwide (references on our website harrisinvestigations.net), and Insurance Companies. Believe it or not, we also do alot of work for other private investigators, nationwide.
We are a family owned and operated company, with most of our employees family members.
We are Small enough to care yet Large enough to serve.
Give us a try.. toll free 888-484-9827
We have licenses to operate in Pa, De and NJ.. With 4 offices to suit your needs!
Private Investigations-What we do
Private detectives and investigators assist individuals, businesses, and attorneys by finding and analyzing information. They connect small clues to solve mysteries or to uncover facts about legal, financial, or personal matters. Private detectives and investigators offer many services, including executive, corporate, and celebrity protection; pre-employment verification; and individual background profiles. Some investigate computer crimes, such as identity theft, harassing e-mails, and illegal downloading of copyrighted material. They also provide assistance in criminal and civil liability cases, insurance claims and fraud, child custody and protection cases, missing persons cases, and premarital screening. They are sometimes hired to investigate individuals to prove or disprove infidelity.
Private detectives and investigators have many methods to choose from when determining the facts in a case. Much of their work is done using a computer, recovering deleted e-mails and documents, for example. They may also perform computer database searches or work with someone who does. Computers allow investigators to quickly obtain huge amounts of information such as a subject’s prior arrests, convictions, and civil legal judgments; telephone numbers; motor vehicle registrations; association and club memberships; and even photographs.
Detectives and investigators also perform various other types of surveillance or searches. To verify facts, such as an individual’s income or place of employment, they may make phone calls or visit a subject’s workplace. In other cases, especially those involving missing persons and background checks, investigators interview people to gather as much information as possible about an individual. Sometimes investigators go undercover, pretending to be someone else to get information or to observe a subject inconspicuously.
Most detectives and investigators are trained to perform physical surveillance, which may be high-tech or low-tech. They may observe a site, such as the home of a subject, from an inconspicuous location or a vehicle. Using photographic and video cameras, binoculars, and cell phones, detectives often use surveillance to gather information on an individual; this can be quite time consuming.
The duties of private detectives and investigators depend on the needs of their clients. In cases that involve fraudulent workers’ compensation claims, for example, investigators may carry out long-term covert observation of a person suspected of fraud. If an investigator observes him or her performing an activity that contradicts injuries stated in a worker’s compensation claim, the investigator would take video or still photographs to document the activity and report it to the client.
Detectives and investigators must be mindful of the law when conducting investigations. They keep up with Federal, State, and local legislation, such as privacy laws and other legal issues affecting their work. The legality of certain methods may be unclear, and investigators and detectives must make judgment calls when deciding how to pursue a case. They must also know how to collect evidence properly so that they do not compromise its admissibility in court.
Private detectives and investigators often specialize. Those who focus on intellectual property theft, for example, investigate and document acts of piracy, help clients stop illegal activity, and provide intelligence for prosecution and civil action. Other investigators specialize in developing financial profiles and asset searches. Their reports reflect information gathered through interviews, investigation and surveillance, and research, including review of public documents.
Computer forensic investigators specialize in recovering, analyzing, and presenting data from computers for use in investigations or as evidence. They determine the details of intrusions into computer systems, recover data from encrypted or erased files, and recover e-mails and deleted passwords.
Legal investigators assist in preparing criminal defenses, locating witnesses, serving legal documents, interviewing police and prospective witnesses, and gathering and reviewing evidence. Legal investigators also may collect information on the parties to the litigation, take photographs, testify in court, and assemble evidence and reports for trials. They often work for law firms or lawyers.
Corporate investigators conduct internal and external investigations for corporations. In internal investigations, they may investigate drug use in the workplace, ensure that expense accounts are not abused, or determine whether employees are stealing merchandise or information. External investigations attempt to thwart criminal schemes from outside the corporation, such as fraudulent billing by a supplier.
Financial investigators may be hired to develop confidential financial profiles of individuals or companies that are prospective parties to large financial transactions. These investigators often are certified public accountants (CPAs) who work closely with investment bankers and other accountants. They might also search for assets in order to recover damages awarded by a court in fraud or theft cases.
Detectives who work for retail stores or hotels are responsible for controlling losses and protecting assets. Store detectives, also known as loss prevention agents, safeguard the assets of retail stores by apprehending anyone attempting to steal merchandise or destroy store property. They prevent theft by shoplifters, vendor representatives, delivery personnel and even store employees. Store detectives also conduct periodic inspections of stock areas, dressing rooms, and restrooms, and sometimes assist in opening and closing the store. They may prepare loss prevention and security reports for management and testify in court against people they apprehend. Hotel detectives protect guests of the establishment from theft of their belongings and preserve order in hotel restaurants and bars. They also may keep undesirable individuals, such as known thieves, off the premises.
Work environment. Many detectives and investigators spend time away from their offices conducting interviews or doing surveillance, but some work in their office most of the day conducting computer searches and making phone calls. When the investigator is working on a case, the environment might range from plush boardrooms to seedy bars. Store and hotel detectives work in the businesses that they protect.
Investigators generally work alone, but they sometimes work with others during surveillance or when following a subject in order to avoid detection by the subject. Some of the work involves confrontation, so the job can be stressful and dangerous. Some situations call for the investigator to be armed, such as certain bodyguard assignments for corporate or celebrity clients. In most cases, however, a weapon is not necessary because the purpose of the work is gathering information and not law enforcement or criminal apprehension. Owners of investigative agencies have the added stress of having to deal with demanding and sometimes distraught clients.
Private detectives and investigators often work irregular hours because of the need to conduct surveillance and contact people who are not available during normal working hours. Early morning, evening, weekend, and holiday work is common.
Private detectives and investigators have many methods to choose from when determining the facts in a case. Much of their work is done using a computer, recovering deleted e-mails and documents, for example. They may also perform computer database searches or work with someone who does. Computers allow investigators to quickly obtain huge amounts of information such as a subject’s prior arrests, convictions, and civil legal judgments; telephone numbers; motor vehicle registrations; association and club memberships; and even photographs.
Detectives and investigators also perform various other types of surveillance or searches. To verify facts, such as an individual’s income or place of employment, they may make phone calls or visit a subject’s workplace. In other cases, especially those involving missing persons and background checks, investigators interview people to gather as much information as possible about an individual. Sometimes investigators go undercover, pretending to be someone else to get information or to observe a subject inconspicuously.
Most detectives and investigators are trained to perform physical surveillance, which may be high-tech or low-tech. They may observe a site, such as the home of a subject, from an inconspicuous location or a vehicle. Using photographic and video cameras, binoculars, and cell phones, detectives often use surveillance to gather information on an individual; this can be quite time consuming.
The duties of private detectives and investigators depend on the needs of their clients. In cases that involve fraudulent workers’ compensation claims, for example, investigators may carry out long-term covert observation of a person suspected of fraud. If an investigator observes him or her performing an activity that contradicts injuries stated in a worker’s compensation claim, the investigator would take video or still photographs to document the activity and report it to the client.
Detectives and investigators must be mindful of the law when conducting investigations. They keep up with Federal, State, and local legislation, such as privacy laws and other legal issues affecting their work. The legality of certain methods may be unclear, and investigators and detectives must make judgment calls when deciding how to pursue a case. They must also know how to collect evidence properly so that they do not compromise its admissibility in court.
Private detectives and investigators often specialize. Those who focus on intellectual property theft, for example, investigate and document acts of piracy, help clients stop illegal activity, and provide intelligence for prosecution and civil action. Other investigators specialize in developing financial profiles and asset searches. Their reports reflect information gathered through interviews, investigation and surveillance, and research, including review of public documents.
Computer forensic investigators specialize in recovering, analyzing, and presenting data from computers for use in investigations or as evidence. They determine the details of intrusions into computer systems, recover data from encrypted or erased files, and recover e-mails and deleted passwords.
Legal investigators assist in preparing criminal defenses, locating witnesses, serving legal documents, interviewing police and prospective witnesses, and gathering and reviewing evidence. Legal investigators also may collect information on the parties to the litigation, take photographs, testify in court, and assemble evidence and reports for trials. They often work for law firms or lawyers.
Corporate investigators conduct internal and external investigations for corporations. In internal investigations, they may investigate drug use in the workplace, ensure that expense accounts are not abused, or determine whether employees are stealing merchandise or information. External investigations attempt to thwart criminal schemes from outside the corporation, such as fraudulent billing by a supplier.
Financial investigators may be hired to develop confidential financial profiles of individuals or companies that are prospective parties to large financial transactions. These investigators often are certified public accountants (CPAs) who work closely with investment bankers and other accountants. They might also search for assets in order to recover damages awarded by a court in fraud or theft cases.
Detectives who work for retail stores or hotels are responsible for controlling losses and protecting assets. Store detectives, also known as loss prevention agents, safeguard the assets of retail stores by apprehending anyone attempting to steal merchandise or destroy store property. They prevent theft by shoplifters, vendor representatives, delivery personnel and even store employees. Store detectives also conduct periodic inspections of stock areas, dressing rooms, and restrooms, and sometimes assist in opening and closing the store. They may prepare loss prevention and security reports for management and testify in court against people they apprehend. Hotel detectives protect guests of the establishment from theft of their belongings and preserve order in hotel restaurants and bars. They also may keep undesirable individuals, such as known thieves, off the premises.
Work environment. Many detectives and investigators spend time away from their offices conducting interviews or doing surveillance, but some work in their office most of the day conducting computer searches and making phone calls. When the investigator is working on a case, the environment might range from plush boardrooms to seedy bars. Store and hotel detectives work in the businesses that they protect.
Investigators generally work alone, but they sometimes work with others during surveillance or when following a subject in order to avoid detection by the subject. Some of the work involves confrontation, so the job can be stressful and dangerous. Some situations call for the investigator to be armed, such as certain bodyguard assignments for corporate or celebrity clients. In most cases, however, a weapon is not necessary because the purpose of the work is gathering information and not law enforcement or criminal apprehension. Owners of investigative agencies have the added stress of having to deal with demanding and sometimes distraught clients.
Private detectives and investigators often work irregular hours because of the need to conduct surveillance and contact people who are not available during normal working hours. Early morning, evening, weekend, and holiday work is common.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Private Investigations
So you want to be a private investigator? First and foremost you have to check your states licensing requirments. YES , you MUST be licensed, bonded and insured to do this work. There are a few states that have exceptions. Check http://www.pimagazine.com/links_Licensing.htm for your specific state. Next, if you are going to do this, you MUST have a client base. Its a proven fact, without a client base you will be out of business in 5 years or less. I have been in this field since 1987. Started my own company with my husband in 2005. We are now licensed in several states. I am licensed in Pa, De and NJ. My husband in Pa and De. We are both notaries in Pa. I am a notary in De.
This business is NOT like you see on 99% of the TV shows. Dont be misconcieved. This is a hard job to do, with some common sense. It can be dangerous. It can be a 24 hour a day 365 day year job, if you want to be sucessfull .
Check out our website for some of our services www.harrisinvestigations.net and check back here for more blog updates!
This business is NOT like you see on 99% of the TV shows. Dont be misconcieved. This is a hard job to do, with some common sense. It can be dangerous. It can be a 24 hour a day 365 day year job, if you want to be sucessfull .
Check out our website for some of our services www.harrisinvestigations.net and check back here for more blog updates!
Service of Process Via Social Media Sites
In an increasing, distrubing and troubling trend, another court has allowed Service of Process using a social networking site. Yesterday an English High Court ruled that a court injunction (order) could be served via Twitter. The Order approving this service method is being called the Blaney’s Blarney Order after the subject matter of the litigation. The law firm representing the plaintiff in this case claims this is the first time an order has ever to be served via Twitter. Not so fast... It may not be the first time Twitter was used to provide notice to a party to a lawsuit. Earlier this year a Dutch antipiracy group brought suit against Pirate Bay (a Swedish company accused of hosting illegal downloads) and provided notice via Facebook and a Twitter account claiming they weren't able to locate the company founders. See tweet below.
It is interesting that many of the same issues process servers deal with in the physical world, exist in the virtual world.
- Can't locate the person to serve
- Get creative in serving the documents
- Claim you weren't served
- Serving the wrong person
What do you think?
It is interesting that many of the same issues process servers deal with in the physical world, exist in the virtual world.
- Can't locate the person to serve
- Get creative in serving the documents
- Claim you weren't served
- Serving the wrong person
What do you think?
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