Showing posts with label philippine background checks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label philippine background checks. Show all posts
December 23, 2011
Philippines Background Checks Reveal Medical Scams in Manila



Healthcare business is becoming a good source of income for the Philippine economy. Medical care for foreigners and even health care tourism is rising. Foreigners are coming to the country to take advantage of the relatively good care at a great price, compared to services offered in developing countries. For those without insurance in the developed world, the Philippines offers an affordable choice for some routine operations and surgeries and procedures. Medical tourism is a rising business worth a over $100 billion USD worldwise, and expected to rise in 2012. The socialist and mandatory bill put into place in the U.S. by Hussein Obama has driven the cost up for Americans, which should also help drive more patients to the Philippines when people can’t afford healthcare at home. The Philippines received a total of $1.3 billion dollars between 2006 and 2010 from medical tourism, as they call it. Among this rise in care for foreigners, investigators say the risk for medical scams has also increased, and many are targeting foreigners.

Healthcare is expensive in the U.S. and since the costly “reforms” made by Obama administration, the people are looking for more affordable options. Socialist and mandatory healthcare has driven up the costs for businesses, insurance providers, and patients. Many Americans are willing to travel half way around the world to find good spots for affordable healthcare.

The Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand are making an effort to attract foreigners who are seeking quality medical care for cheap. Some hospitals are even adding English to their websites and adapting hospitals with hotel accommodations for families and patients visiting from other countries. Such patients typically pay in cash, and are an excellent source of revenue. Some Filipino healthcare and hospital managers are even considering partnering with India.

But as always, there’s the other “dark” side of the story, as corruption in the Philippines is high and involves levels of the government administration and the health department. A lot of cyber criminals have dedicated their time to steal money from the sick offering false promises and selling medicines, based in the ancient traditions of healing, making people believe they can stop their real medications, stop seeing their doctors while actually getting worse or even death.

Women in an urge to get that perfect body submit themselves to any trick available to lose weight or have surgery where needed in order to look like Hollywood movie stars. Philippines private investigators see a high risk of fraud in this scenario. Some fake websites offer promised surgeries for cheap and ask for a down payment to reserve the surgery. Websites can appear very real and even use the names of reputable hospitals in Manila. In other cases, a person may put information on the internet or call hospitals asking about surgeries, and then someone claiming to be a doctor will contact the potential victim regarding the surgery. A schedule is reserved and the patient will need to make the first payment, and then the money is gone. In other cases, in the extreme, someone with little training can actually attempt to perform the procedure.

As the fraud escalates, some clinics offer miracle solutions and even providing services within un-qualified surgeons performing surgeries that may even costs their patients’ lives. If you’re thinking of having a procedure done in the Philippines, experts and law enforcement agree, that reputable Philippines background checks are strongly recommend to lower your risk.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch
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July 22, 2011
Philippines Investigators See How the Internet has Changed Relationships


The internet has changed everything, and relationships are no exception.  “Friends” are now something you have by the hundreds, and you “meet” online when you receive an invitation, to click yes or no.  This is what it’s come down to.  Online dating, social networking, chat rooms, and so on.  Internet dating, foreign brides, online job opportunities, and more.  Whatever you need, you can find it online.  Many people don’t even leave the house any more.  Why go out and meet someone at a café or bar or bookstore, when you can join a chat room or talk on Facebook.

Times have changed and everyone now has their Blackberries, their laptops and their mobile devices. Most wives do not stay at home, as most of them have pursued a college degree and yes, they might be competitive successful business women too. And children, well,  children may or may not be in the picture. If they are, they are well taken care of by their TV or laptop or Facebook messages.  The entire family structure and lifestyle has changed, and many relationships are now formed, maintained and terminated online.  This new platform has changed the way Philippines private investigators conduct infidelity investigations, and uncover evidence.

Couples in trouble, or for those looking for a new lover, or something on the side, often start their discreet search online.  And this is where it all starts.  This can leave a good electronic trail for investigators and spouses to follow, and eventually lead them to the real, offline story and guilt of their spouse or partner.  What may start as innocent flirting online, can end in a hotel room or a parked car, and finally, a nasty divorce or ruined relationships.  The game has changed.

Philippines detectives explain that many of the infidelity cases they work these days involve foreign relationships, with Western men connecting with Filipina women.  There is a large percentage of local relationships, however, that involve infidelity, cheating and other unethical behavior of spouses.  Experts say if the spouse is outside the country, or if the boyfriend is living in Australia, U.S., U.K. or Canada, and the Filipina is alone in the Philippines, and only receiving financial support from her Western lover, the chances for infidelity is very high.  In some cases, the Filipina may even be married.  To rule out the risk for fraud, scams and infidelity, a comprehensive Philippines background checks combined with discreet surveillance is advised.

Sites like Match.com, Friendster, Facebook, eHaromy, FilipinaHearts and many more offer unfaithful partners and lovers all the opportunity they need to start the search for someone new.  In some cases, a Filipina may seek out a relationship with a foreigner not out of love or interest, but for pure financial gain.  Life in the Philippines can be difficult, and sometimes Filipina women with limited options have to make some difficult decisions.  This fuels the problem.

Investigators in Manila, Davao, Cebu and Cagayan de Oro see a good amount of infidelity.  The internet has made infidelity easier and more tempting.  Tracking down evidence of infidelity, at least the initial probing, is often begun on the internet as well.  The internet has become a valuable tool in investigations and a risk for relationships when it comes to infidelity.  Even employers and law enforcement now check Facebook and Twitter to gather a perp’s social profile online.  It can never replace professional investigation and highly trained investigators, but it does serve as another tool in the investigators versatile toolbox.  If in doubt, experts say contact a reputable Philippines private detective for discreet surveillance and investigation.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch

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July 19, 2011
Philippines Private Detectives Uncover Fake Medicine Scam



Health issues are always a cause for concern, and these days people use the internet to study conditions on their own, so they can be more informed, in addition to learning from their doctor. In the Philippines, poverty and corresponding health conditions are an all too common concern and part of daily life. Often inappropriate diets in the province (resulting from poverty) or hectic lives in the bustling capitol of Manila leave no time for staying healthy. In short, health problems continue to be a major problem in the Philippines and now Philippines private detectives have uncovered even more bad news. Scams involving face medicines are growing.

Asian countries in the Pacific have ancient believes that certain herbs, plants and animals have medicinal value and since they come from Mother Earth they should be harmless to the human system. In most cases, this is excellent advice and a proven way to stay healthy. However, where there are special herbs and holistic medicine, there are often fraudsters trying to sell some magic pill or snake oil that will cure just about anything. In fact, Manila based private investigators, in coordination with the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation), recently uncovered a scam ring that operates in southern China, Malaysia and the Philippines. It was a well established criminal scam operation providing customers in the region and abroad with drugs that are supposed to have natural components based in ancient recipes with instant miracle results: substantial weight loss in a short time, member enlargement and erections that last much more longer, pills and creams that rejuvenate years in seconds, lose streaks or eliminate cellulite, shampoos that stop loss hair and capsules that increase the ability of the mind and nervous system for better performance of the mind and body. All these cures sound good and promising, and with a low price, why not try them. This is precisely how the criminal group has been able to sell absolutely worthless “remedies” to thousands of people in Southeast Asia and abroad. Capsules and creams in some cases would be water, juice, sugar or even cheap creams repackaged and named.

Philippines private investigators urge consumers to be skeptical, read ingredients labels, and check with their local health department or doctor for an opinion about the herbal drug or supplement. Look for reputable brand names that have a proven track record. The scams are especially harmful because often people who buy the fake medicines are very ill and don’t have money to spare, so they end up getting sicker, with even less money to feed and take care of themselves. Often the natural medicines are bought out of desperation, and criminal take advantage.

Experts say the criminals are effective marketers, and they send spam emails, advertise their false miracle medicine on social networks like Facebook and even Twitter and, in some cases, even pay for TV ads, not only in the Philippines but all over the Malay Archipelago. An NBI spokesperson said, “these scammers take advantage of the need people have to recover, feel better, be healthy, and that is really sad, because victims threaten their health and even their lives.”

The components of these so called medicines have been exported from Malaysia into the Philippines, China and South Korea. The last big scam is “The Tuko” in which the drug comes from the use of organs and skin of the little reptile known as the gecko and supposedly can cure serious illnesses like AIDS, asthma, cancer, tuberculosis and even impotence. According to the NBI, “the cost of 300 grams of Gecko is $1,160 USD and the Health Department in the Philippines is really concerned of the big scam locals are facing, because geckos do not cure, and people are asking for credit loans to be able to pay for this medicine, putting themselves in real danger.”

William J. Carter, VP of Private Investigations at Philippine PI™, says the best advice is to go to a doctor and get serous treatment, be well informed about the threats of the internet and always be skeptical about anything that seems to be a miracle fix, or too good to be true. “If you’re considering taking a new drug, or making a purchase from a new herbal company or supplier, do you research, and consider a Philippines background check to be sure you know what you’re getting. Not knowing can be costly to your pocket book, and can have serious health consequences,” says Carter. Be skeptical, especially when it comes to your health.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch

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July 6, 2011
Philippines Scams and Crime a Risk for Travelers



Summer’s here and vacation can’t wait. According to the Lonely Planet Guide, the Philippines is the sixth most attractive spot to travel as it offers best value for wanderers: accessible prices, nice beaches, beautiful landscapes and excellent nightlife. The Philippines seems to have all for an unforgettable vacation. For many Western travelers, it offers an memorable experience and some of the best beaches in the world, all at a fair price. Not all is perfect in paradise, however. Some tourists have fallen victim to a terrible scam, and have lost money and all their luggage.

Some travelers are reporting what has been named “The Nice Family Scam”. A couple, wife and husband, or even a supposed family with children makes friends with tourists on board a jeepney (a local taxi), a museum or a local spot. They are the friendliest people you have ever met; they break the ice and show you their grandchildren’s photographs gaining your trust. This couple is so warm and lovely that somehow you end up having lunch at their place or going to a tour with them. They are so happy they’ve found you that they honor you with a party and invite you to drinks in which they have put a drug called Ativan also known as lorazepam, usually prescribed to control anxiety disorders. This drug causes drowsiness, fainting or even comma, depending on the dose. In other cases, similar techniques can be used to distract the traveler once the travel feels comfortable with his new friends. Meanwhile, his good or money is taken.

The next day you wake up in a room, disoriented and with all your valuables missing. In some cases, female victims have been victimized and abused. The U.S. embassy in the Philippines and the local police departments and the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) are aware of this crime and are working together with Philippines private investigators Philippines private investigators to warn tourists and educate potential travelers.

What can you do to avoid being a victim? Do not talk to every stranger you cross when traveling, not only in the Philippines but anywhere in the world. Of course one of the good things about traveling is getting the experience of knowing locals and their culture, but be careful and skeptical. People can be nice and helpful but just as with online scams, new friends might not be who they claim to be. Beware of the risk, and be skeptical and keep an eye on your belongings and money. Be very cautious about receiving drinks from persons in the Philippines. Make sure it is an unopened bottle or get your own drinks, to be safe. If you are traveling to a foreign country and staying with a local family, make sure to get as much information about them before you sign in to stay. Experienced private investigators advise a Philippines background check to verify any individuals offering a home stay in the Philippines, due to the risk for fraud and scams.

All the best,
S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch

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June 3, 2011
Manila Employment Scams Create Need for Philippines Background Checks













The global economy is in bad shape, and conditions are even worse in developing countries like the Philippines, where many people are forced to move to other countries to seek out opportunity and better lives. Immigrants pay smugglers big sums of money to be taken to nations they cannot enter legally: U.K., U.S. and Australia are their main target. For those seeking employment, even when qualified, opportunities are hard to come by. Both employers and job seekers in the Philippines are frustrated with the high level of employment scams impacting Manila and other large cities. Because of the increased risk, job seekers and corporate employers are both recommending Philippines background checks for verifying a potential job offer or potential perfect candidate.
Multi-national companies are finding it more and more difficult to find the right candidate. Human resource representatives in Manila say the problem isn’t qualified candidates. There are no shortage of qualified people seeking employment. The problem is screening through the large amount of applications, and mixed in with them, is a large of amount of false candidates or resumes with inaccurate, exaggerated, or plain fictitious work and education history. More than ever, companies should consider hiring a Philippines private investigator to verify Filipino candidates.

Some false companies in the Philippines offer employment abroad to young women to move to Australia, Singapore or Japan, in temporary jobs related to tourism or telemarketing. But, the true scenario is that they are taken to foreign countries to become prostitutes. Most of them won’t see their home country or family ever again. Relatives report their disappearance, but migration authorities and the police are overworked and short on resources. Scams don’t just focus on low end employment, and doctors and lawyers and even top executives report being victims of employment scams in the Philippines. Job offers can entice candidates, and the headhunter can speak the lingo and present a very authentic looking employment package with a great salary and benefits. Such attractive offers in the Philippines should be verified by a competent Philippines private detective firm or agency.

Philippines private investigators are aware of the high levels of corruption in the country. Law enforcement agencies such as the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) and PNP (Philippines National Police) both report high levels of employment scams and fake job postings. Companies like Monster have dedicated staff working to remove such postings, but stopping the criminals completely seems impossible, as it is difficult to screen every single job posting. The bottom line is to be skeptical with every job candidate and every job posting. Employers and job seekers should both ask a lot of questions, and consider a confidential pre-employment screening prior to moving forward.

Working in a different country is an enlightening experience when you find the right opportunity, and of course, not all offers are scams. Some companies in Manila are recovering and beginning to offer lucrative positions with real career potential. Just keep in mind that some companies might be a scam even though they appear to be legitimate opportunities in the Philippines or Southeast Asia. Whether it is an offer on the television, newspaper or online, it is better to contact a reputable private investigation agency, conduct a background check or due diligence in the Philippines to minimize your risk.

All the best,
S. Birch.
© 2011 S. Birch.
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April 21, 2011
Background Checks to Prevent Identity Theft in the Philippines


High levels of unemployment and poverty have made the Philippines country ripe with diverse types of fraud activity. From online dating scams to Medicare fraud to identity theft, widespread corruption helps criminals to get away with the crime on a routine basis, and law enforcement is slow to act. Recent reports show that theft identity is a rising form of crime in the Philippines and usually can be traced to online dating scams, as many profiles on Filipina match-making or internet dating sites now include false profiles. In many cases, there is no way for the victim to verify the information on his own.

Con artists steal identities in order to access resources like credit lines or unemployment benefits in that person’s name, and organizations or individuals that are defrauded with identity theft also suffer the consequences, therefore, they also become victims. Scammers may take the information of someone they know, and even have stolen or false identification to assume an identity of someone else in the Philippines, making it even harder for a background check to confirm evidence of fraud. In some cases, having a professional Philippines private detective in the local area is the only way to verify.

These cases result in more than one victim, as the target of the scam gets taken, as well as the individual who has his or her identity stolen. Because it is very hard to find out when or where your personal information has been stolen, once the identify theft is discovered, the damage is usually done. Assuming a false identity or stealing a true identity in the Philippines is a sign of increasing criminal savvy.

Online dating scammers specialize in stealing and falsifying passports, visas, bank statements and photographs of the person they are pretending to be. In most cases, the girl of your dreams is usually an related man or woman who cares little about your feelings, but is most interested in your money. Even when a web cam is used, it is not necessarily an indication that the case is clean. Criminals and scammers are now using pre-recorded video feeds to increase confidence and trust in their victims. Or, the girl online may be real, but may be using a false name or stolen identity to get aware with her crime. Such scams can be run be older women or men, who handle the business and might be the one receiving the gifts and money you send her for education, medical expenses, or that business you will own.

To be on the safe side, consumers should consider a professional Philippines background check. And be sure the company or the investigator you are contacting has all the credentials and is a well established business, because there are also so-called private detectives that will charge less for their service, but not necessary fulfill the request, or even worse, might contact the subject, extort money from you or the subject, and provide you with false information that will lead to even further frustration.

Philippine PI is one of the largest and most reliable private investigation agencies in the Philippines, and the company is verified by the United States Better Business Bureau. With zero complaints on file for the past 3 years, the firm sets a prime example of level of trust and professionalism private investigators should strive for. With professional field investigators based in Manila, Quezon City, Cebu City, Davao and Cagayan de Oro, investigation services include background checks, due diligence and surveillance, and more. Know the risk, be skeptical, and if in doubt, contact a reputable private investigator.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch

For further reading: See the Philippines private investigator article by John Wallace.
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May 31, 2010
Philippines Private Investigators in Demand, Despite Economy, Romance Scams Increase

  • 5/31/2010
In a Recession, Philippine Scams Remain High






Philippine dating scams and fraud are booming, despite the global recession. Both private investigators and consumers report high numbers of fraud and scam cases in the Philippines compared to last year, and this doesn’t include the usual strong demand for infidelity and pre-marital cases. In short, private investigators in the Philippines are in high demand, as the risk for fraud and scams and infidelity is higher than ever. The Philippines, it seems, has a long road ahead of addressing this national problem of internet initiated crime, scams and infidelity (most scams and fraud relationships are initiated via the internet). In the meantime, some Philippines private investigators are hard at work.

Although most people in the Philippines are honest and decent people, few argue that the country is known for its exportation of women, internet scams and fraud, infidelity, and online dating scams. It is a sad truth that many women are online searching for a foreigner, anyone in fact who can send them money and/or take them out of the Philippines. In many cases, the husband or boyfriend of the Filipina is also aware of the scam, and may even control the entire criminal operation. All this again is to gain financially, and to use the emotions of the victims to accomplish the task. Investigators and dating websites agree, a Philippine background check is a prudent decision and highly recommended for relationships in the Philippines. Many women may even marry or carry on serious relationships with a foreigner while they are married in the Philippines, to gain financial support.

Private investigators emphasize that fraud and scams reach all levels of Philippine society, including business and insurance scams, to corporate fraud and various forms of advance fee fraud. However, online dating appears to be the highest risk area this year, with the majority of case loads by private investigators in Manila reporting infidelity or online dating scam related cases. Philippine PI™ maintains the largest team of professional investigators in the Philippines and is U.S. owned and managed. The firm has reported a "significant increase" in internet dating scams compared to last year, and offers a good checklist on its website for choosing a Philippine private detective.

If involved in a relationship with someone in the Philippines, private investigators offer the following red flags which should indicate additional caution is needed, and the services of a Philippines investigator may be required. Be skeptical of any of the following: overnight claims of love, emergencies or sudden illness, requests for financial assistance, model type photographs, problems with visa or passport, times or days when the subject is out of contact, etc. Be skeptical and trust your instincts.

Lastly, the Philippines is a great country with many potential opportunities - and great beaches and beautiful women. The risk here for fraud and scams, however, should not be ignored.

All the Best,

S. Birch
© 2010 S. Birch
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April 29, 2010
Philippines Detectives Report: Private Investigation & Background Checks Rising

  • 4/29/2010
Private Investigators Cite Rise in Philippines Cases






Background check and investigation companies in Manila report a rise in investigation and surveillance activity in response to an increase in internet dating, and online scams. Internet dating sites report a similar rise in activity, as people seem to be looking past the global economic crisis, and thinking more about personal relationships. More people online dating in the Philippines means more risk for scams. The risk should not be ignored.

One of largest Philippines private investigators in Manila reports that clients are increasingly more aware of the risk for scams and fraud. Clients are now considering background checks or pre-marital checks as a form of insurance. This is good news for many in the business since clients have historically hired private investigators after the damage has been done, and the scam or fraud is complete, or the money gone. Getting the background check or pre-marital investigation early means clients are informed and the risk for romance scams is minimized.

The Philippine background check services differ a great deal in prices and service leves. As a rule, consumers should be skeptical of "companies" or private investigators that are Philippine owned. If possible, consumers should consider a Canada or U.S. based private investigation company with operations in the Philippines, such as Philippine PI™, which is based in the United States but has professional field investigators in all of the Philippines. Choosing a Western company ensures a more professional investigation and higher level of customer service in most cases. While it could mean slightly higher prices, most clients quickly find they get what they pay for in the Philippines. After all, the risk for fraud also exists with private investigators.

Investigation and online dating industry observers emphasize that although there is a high risk for scams in the Philippines, and selecting a private detective can be difficult, there are many rewards for doing business in the Philippines, and many meaningful relationships have been formed with Filipinas online. Due to the high risk, investigators and dating websites agree it's a prudent decision to have relationships verified to be safe.

All the Best,

S. Birch
© 2010 S. Birch
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March 18, 2009
Philippines Private Investigators

  • 3/18/2009
Survey names Philippine PI as most reliable service









Philippine PI™, LLC is wholly owned by Wymoo® International and is based in Florida, United States. Philippine PI is currently one of the largest, if not the largest, private investigation firm operating in the Philippines. The firm began operations in 2006, and according to the recent release of February consumer polls, Philippine PI is ranked the most reliable private detective in the Philippines today. Over 100 businesses and individuals were polled as part of the industry survey, and the ranking comes at a time when investigator competition is at record levels.

Foriegn corporations, medium to large size businesses and individual consumers who had responded to have used a private investigator in the past two years participated anonymously in the February 2009 poll. The survey was conducted by an independent researcher via email and telephone. The results placed Philippine PI as #1 for "the most reliable" investigator and #2 "best known brand name". Since fraud is so common in the Philippines, and trust being a major issue when hiring a PI in the Philippines, the ranking is a major achievement.

Philippine PI™ has rapidly expanded its market share in Asia investigation services, with its primary focus in the Philippines. Local competitors have struggled to match Philippine PI's growth rate, since many foreign clients maintain a strong preference to contract a U.S. company over a Philippine based group.

Industry experts note that Philippine PI field investigators are often trained in the United States, or are hired from federal law enforcement agencies such as the NBI in Manila. Reporting is professional and timely, and the quality of field investigators may be hard for local firms to match. Many local investigators lack professional training, and this seems to be a market condition where Philippine PI™ holds strategic advantage.

About the Company:

Philippine PI is a subsidiary of Wymoo® International and is based in Florida, United States with operations throughout the Philippines. Philippines private investigators are in Manila, Cebu, Quezon City and Cagayan de Oro. The Company is privately held and is estimated to have 15 to 20 field investigators and support staff throughout the Philippines. Clients are mostly foriegn from the U.S., Europe, Australia and Canada, who find the Company website. Services include background checks, discreet surveillance, missing person searches, and due diligence. The average case turnaround is 7 days.

All the Best,

S. Birch
© 2006-2009 S. Birch

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January 25, 2009
Investigation Scams in the Philippines-PI

  • 1/25/2009
Finding a Professional, Avoiding the Amateurs













With demand for background checks, surveillance and private investigation on the rise in the Philippines, there has been a major increase in the number of providers. Many of these so-called investigators are locals trying to take cash in on the demand, and many clients end up having their money stolen, or receiving unacceptable and reliable work for their money.

The Local Joe vs. the Professional

Selecting a professional Philippines investigator with the proper tools, experience and management team can be a challenge. Fraud and corruption reaches all corners of the Philippines, including many of the operating private investigators. In many cases the local investigator provides unacceptable service, or even no service at all. Other local investigators honestly attempt to do the work, but are not qualified or properly trained.

Sorting through the Mess: A Checklist

1. If it's too cheap, there's probably a reason.
If an investigator claims to offer an exceptional service, at a very low price, it's a safe bet you will get what you pay for. Real, professional investigation can be expensive.

2. Beware of investigators that only accept Western Union.
A real company or professional investigator should have a website where you can submit various forms of payment, including a secure site where you can pay by credit card.

3. Avoid investigators who only accept PayPal.
PayPal is a secure payment option. However, be very skeptical if this is the only way to pay your investigator via a credit card. A real company will offer various forms of payment options, and allow you to submit your credit or debit card data directly via their secure website. A website that only offers PayPal for credit card payments is almost always a clear indication that you are dealing with an individual and not a real company.

4. Is the investigator available for a phone call?
Make sure your investigator is available over the phone. This will show you what kind of service you can expect throughout your case. Avoid any investigator who does not provide an office phone number on his email or website.

5. Use secure websites with privacy seals.
Private investigation can involve details of a very private nature. Look for a PI with a website with privacy seals such as Truste and/or McAfee security. These seals show that the company is serious about protecting your privacy.

6. Do surveillance photos have time-date stamps?
Surveillance photos during any professional investigation will have time-date stamps. This is industry standard and this type of evidence should be included in daily reports to clients.

7. Avoid websites with no business address or phone.
One of the best ways to distinguish the real investigation firm from the local or shady operation is to check the website's contact us page. A real company has a secure contact us page on their website (with a lock on your browser) with a business address. A real investigator will be happy to provide clients with a business phone where he or she can be reached. If any investigator fails to provide this information, look elsewhere.

8. Avoid investigators with no references.
Before paying for an investigator, search the web for references of the company. This way you can learn what others are saying about the investigator. If there isn't any feedback on the web, ask the investigator for a former client reference.

9. Avoid investigators who don't speak proper English.
English is commonly spoken in the Philippines. It is also necessary to conduct a proper investigation there. A PI who doesn't speak English fluently is unqualified.

10. Avoid websites that look unprofessional.
Inadequate budgets and training for development of the business, which can be perceived when viewing the company website, will likely be reflected in other areas as well, such as reports, surveillance and communication. Pay for quality.

11. Expect to pay a fair price.
Private investigation can be expensive. Instead of trying to save a few bucks by choosing a local or someone unknown, speak with a reputable firm about the best option for you. Choosing a cheap PI may mean money and time lost, so choose carefully.

12. Go with a foreign-based company.
Because of the fraud throughout the Philippines, we recommend using a company that is U.S or European managed or owned. This will ensure the company is ran according to stricter standards, and is accountable for safer business practices.

Keep the above checklist in mind when shopping for a private investigator in the Philippines or elsewhere. Philippine PI™, a U.S. based firm with operations throughout the Philippines, contributed to the information in this article.

All the Best,

S. Birch
© 2006-2009 S. Birch
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July 17, 2008
Filipinas, Scams & Philippines Investigators

  • 7/17/2008
An overview of the potential brides and pitfalls













The Philippines continues to be a major exporter of foreign brides and relationship scams. Many Filipinas are honest, beautiful women simply looking for a better life, an opportunity to escape the poverty. Others are honestly looking for true love. Other Filipinas, and increasingly so, are looking to cash in on the profitable industry of relationship and dating scams.

Websites catering to foreigners searching for a Philippine bride are numerous, some more respected than others. It should be noted, however, that no dating or marriage website is immune from fraud and scammers, no matter what they claim. Sorting the good from the bad then is critical in the search for love. The following outlines some of the warning signs.

When searching for the perfect Filipina, watch for the following warning signs. A Filipina who 1) proclaims her love too soon, or 2) requests money often or early in the relationship, or 3) claims she's in financial trouble and desperately needs help, or 4) makes sudden claims of emergencies, or 5) claims she needs assistance for a visa, passport or flight. None of these should automatically disqualify a Filipina, but each should be treated as a red flag for the potential of being a scammer, someone who is dishonest, or someone who is simply after your money.

If all is going well and there has been no sign of any major red flags, we strongly recommend having a professional background check on the girlfriend, fiancee or wife if necessary. Consider the service as an insurance policy to verify if the Filipina is who she claims to be. These services typicallly take about 7 days to complete, and if done by a professional, the subject will never learn of the investigation. The most trusted Philippines private investigators in the Philippines continues to be Philippine PI, a subsidiary of the U.S. based Wymoo International.

Are all of these risks really worth the reward? Many happily married men say yes. Others who have been scammed and left in financial ruin say no. The fact is, sometimes the perfect Filipina is worth searching for despite the risk.. but be careful!!

All the Best,

Simon Birch
© 2006-2009 S. Birch
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July 14, 2008
Choosing a Philippines Private Investigator

  • 7/14/2008
Knowing the prices and services available

The private investigation industry in the Philippines is booming. Mainly, it is the developing status of the Philippines and its high level of corruption that creates the need to have both individuals and businesses checked out. Aside from the economic factor of fraud in the Philippines, the nation is also known for its large exportation of brides, relationship scams and business fraud. Contracting a competent investigator is often essential in the Philippines. Finding a good one, however, is not so easy.

The businesses operating in the Philippines, on average, offer a lower quality of service that is offered by most Western firms. There are exceptions, but this is simply the reality of a poor, under-developed nation. When searching for a professional private investigation company, we strongly recommend choosing one that is based and managed by U.S., Canadian or European ownership. The difference is often more qualified investigators, better customer service and reliable reporting.












Be wary of any investigator in the Philippines who does not have a professional website, requests payment via Western Union or similar cash transfer, is unable to write professional emails, or one that cannot speak and write proper English. If there are no references available, or no positive mention of the person or company can be found on the internet, buyer beware!

Look for a professional investigator that is Western owned, responds promptly with professional, well written emails, is available for a phone conversation, charges reaonable rates and accepts credit cards via a secure internet connection, can provide at least one positive reference in the form of a former client, has a professional website, and has positive references about the firm on the internet. Our favorites and the leader in the Philippines for professional investigation continues to be Philippine PI, with Philippines private detectives throughout the country.

Finally, when seeking a PI in the Philippines, beware of very low prices. These low price offers can be tempting, but more often than not, it is money lost to a local criminal or person portraying himself to be a professional. If something seems too good to be true, well, it probably is. The focus should be finding the most qualified service at a fair price. It's worth it.

All the Best,

Simon Birch
© 2006-2009 S. Birch
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