Most people don’t know much about private investigating. Unless they’ve needed to obtain the services of a private investigator in the past, or just happen to be really intrigued by the occupation, it’s something that doesn’t get discussed much.
However, in cases where people don’t want to – or can’t – call the police, a private investigator can be an effective solution. But unbeknownst to many, technology is making it fairly simple for anyone to get their foot into the door and complete tasks that were once reserved for people with more experience and better connections.
Technology is Changing the Game
It’s becoming fairly common to hear stories of amateur internet sleuths solving cold cases and crimes. But have you ever wondered how this is possible? Aside from being in the right place at the right time, having access to the following technology helps:
- Accurate Online Searches
One of the biggest developments in terms of gaining access to personal information has been the rise of accurate online searches. Docusearch is one of the leading websites on the internet. They allow anyone to obtain information like vehicle registration, hidden assets, background checks, phone numbers, public records, criminal records, and even social security numbers (for legal purposes like 1099 insurance, child support, etc.). Best of all, the information is backed by real private investigators and returned in real time.
There are a lot of websites that pretend to do what Docusearch does, but don’t actually provide what they promise. For those interested in conducting investigative searches, it’s important to carefully vet these websites before spending any money.
- Phone Tracking Software
Did you know that phone tracking software is a thing? It may sound like something you’d see in a Jason Bourne movie, but it’s actually available in real life.
“If you can provide us with the IMEI number from his mobile, that’s all you need,” private investigator Richard Martinez says, highlighting one of the technologies he uses with clients. “Every time he sends or receives an email or a text, your mobile phone will get a copy, as well as the number it’s come from and gone to. Your mobile phone will also have the GPS location of his mobile phone 24/7, and you get surround sound as well, so you can then listen in on his mobile phone without him knowing.”
- Simple Online Resources
You don’t always need expensive software do a little sleuthing, though. The internet is filled with free resources and technologies that make it easy to poke around and discover critical information.
For example, did you know that it’s possible to identify cell phone towers near a specific address, find out anyone’s birthday, locate death records, and do dozens of other things that private investigators usually do – all by knowing which websites to visit?
- GPS Tracking
Finally, GPS trackers have become much smaller and easier to use over the past few years. You can even find ones that track speeds, fuel levels, and other very specific details. Considering that trackers like these once cost thousands of dollars, it’s pretty amazing to think that you can now buy one without breaking the bank.
For Good or Bad?
The biggest issue is whether or not these evolving technologies will be used for good or bad. While private investigators are licensed and required to follow certain laws, the fear is that jealous spouses and curious internet users might do a bit too much snooping and find themselves in situations where they shouldn’t be.
Hopefully, this won’t become an issue. Instead, we’d like to think that more amateur sleuths will use these newfound powers to solve cold cases and do good in their communities.
