Showing posts with label philippine dating scams. Show all posts
Showing posts with label philippine dating scams. Show all posts
June 1, 2012
Philippines Detectives Work Surveillance for Long Distance Relations


Economics have change in ways we never suspected they could since 1929, and the so called developing countries are really having a hard time these days. Families in the modern economies are struggling like those in the developed world.  The world, it seems, has been turned upside down.  In the Philippines, life has always been difficult it seems, at least since Magellan discovered this island nation and forever changed the way the natives have lived and fished on the islands.  These days, many Filipinas look abroad for romance to find a way out, or to improve their lives. With all the fraud, scams and infidelity, Philippines detectives are busy with surveillance.

Every month,  Philippines investigators get many requests from foreigners who want know more about their girlfriends or wives who stay in the Philippines, while the men are working abroad in their home countries.  Men in Canada, the U.S. and Australia often want to know if their local Filipina girlfriends and wives behave and are not linked to unethical behavior or infidelity while the men are on the other side of the world.  Often, romance scams can be about the money, so lovers abroad need to know their girl is the real thing, and they too are not a victim of romance scam.

Unfortunately, given the high poverty and desperate situation in the Philippines, many women turn to drugs, prostitution or internet scams.  It’s no secret that romance scams online, using the local internet café, can lead to a penpal sending you money.  Many locals, perhaps as many as half in any given internet café, are busy chatting with foreigners, and nearly all of those foreigners in turn send money to support their Filipinas girls.  Such relationships should be verified!

Some of the surveillance cases conducted can show alarming evidence and clear proof of fraud, scam, false identity, infidelity, or even the girl having a family aware of the scam.  In other cases, no evidence of any unethical activity will be found, and the client can be assured that his girl is the right one, an honest girl, and sleep better at night after hiring a professional to minimize the risk.  Experts say surveillance is best in the beginning of the relationships once there is money involved, or later in the relationship as soon as you have your doubts that something is not right overseas.

Surveillance can be a risky business, and it’s essential to hire a professional to ensure the service is discreet and confidential, and that the subject not be made aware of any investigation.  Untrained investigators may be cheap, but using such services can often lead to romance disaster.

Philippine PI detectives encourage foreign men to proceed with surveillance whenever they suspect they are being fooled or cheated, or when their gut instinct tells them something is not right.  Also, prior to marriage, it is critical that a comprehensive background check and local investigation be carried out, along with discreet surveillance, to minimize the risk down the road.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2012 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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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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February 10, 2010
Detectives Battle Filipina Dating Scams

  • 2/10/2010
Philippines Private Investigators Fight Scams







Like never before, Manila private investigators are battling the surge in scams and fraud in the Philippines, and many of these scams and fraud cases are romance or Filipina related. Despite the fact that most Filipinas are honest and decent women, the online scammers seem to be gaining ground, keeping Manila private investigators busy, and giving the Philippines a bad name.

Private investigation companies in Manila and Cebu report they have seen a sharp rise in the number of background check, internet scam, and dating background check cases during the past year. Infidelity cases are actually down, according to one Philippines private investigator in Makati. Scams and advance fee fraud, including corporate fraud, are all up from last year.

Corporate clients are urged to contract the services of a professional investigation company to conduct the necessary due diligence or background check prior to engaging in a business relationship or deal in the Philippines. Without this form of insurance, the alternative can be costly. Consumers seeking relationships via the internet are advised never to send money to any individual in the Philippines, unless that person is known personally, or has been verified by a professional.

Philippine dating scams are primarily effecting individuals in Canada, United States, Australia and the United Kingdom. Private investigators offer the following advice. 1) If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. 2) Make it clear from the beginning that you won't be sending money. 3) Never send money unless the person is known well, or verified via a professional background check. 4) If the relationship is getting serious, contact a reputable private investigation company for advice and peace of mind.

Because the sophistication of scams and fraud continues to increase, knowing the truth is increasingly difficult. A professional and discreet investigation can help clients sleep easy.


All the Best,

S. Birch
© 2010 S. Birch
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September 30, 2009
Philippines Background Checks - The Basics

  • 9/30/2009
Choosing a Philippine Private Investigator







There is no shortage of demand for competent and experienced professional investigators in the Philippines. Unfortunately, the supply is very limited. At first glance, there appears to be a wide selection of private investigators to choose from. It doesn't take long to find out that few of the so-called investigators have any real experience, and the number of professional investigation firms operating in the Philippines is actually quite limited.

Philippines private detectives and private investigators are often locals trying to earn a living in a poor and developing country. In some cases, the investigator may not even attempt to do the work, and simply steal the client's money. Consumers in need of a background check, surveillance or investigation are advised to be aware of any investigator based in the Philippines, especially those that require payment by Western Union or PayPal.

A reputable Philippines private detective should offer multiple forms of payment, including secure payment with a credit card via the company's website. Choosing a firm based in the U.S., Canada or the U.K. ensures a higher level of client service and accountability. Choosing a local may be cheaper in the short run, but clients often get what they pay for. Professional investigations and real Philippines background checks require the labor of professional investigators, and services can be expensive.

The largest private investigation firm with operations in the Philippines is currently Philippine PI™, which is based in the U.S. but has a sizeable team of field investigators and agents in the Philippines. Philippine PI™ is verified by Truste, McAfee and the U.S. Better Business Bureau. There also investigators in the U.K. and Canada that operate in the Philippines, and they are preferred over any local. Consumers are advised to should shop around and remember that any reputable firm should have references.

Due to the high risk of fraud, infidelity and romance scams in the Philippines, private investigators are a wise insurance policy. But remember... choosing a private investigator based on price alone could be a costly mistake. Go with a reputable international firm, and be safe with a trusted professional investigator.

All the Best,

S. Birch
© 2006-2009 S. Birch
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July 8, 2009
Internet Dating Scams

  • 7/08/2009
Scams Drive Demand for Background Checks











So many websites now offer online dating or match-making services that it's hard to estimate the actual size of this new and global industry. Match.com still leads the industry, but new smaller sites now offer almost any niche imaginable, such as Jewish dating, senior dating, divorced dating, and many, many more. With this rise in online dating, there has been a equal rise in the demand in international background checks.

While there are some efforts to curb scammers and fraud operations, no website is immune from scammers. Match-making websites simply aren't equipped to properly screen all customers. Many sites now do offer scam prevention information on their websites, and also recommend background checks to their customers who are considering a more serious relationship.

The high risk areas for online scams and dating fraud remain Russia, the Ukraine, Ghana, Nigeria, Colombia and the Philippines. However, most professional investigators agree that no country is immune. There is simply no way to be 100% sure if Mr. or Ms. Perfect is truly who he or she claims to be without the verification process of a professional background check.

Internet dating scams are increasingly common in developed nations like the U.S. and the U.K. and while most people on the internet are honest people, the risk of fraud remains high. Be skeptical of any financial requests from a potential mate, no matter what the reason. If all seems good, and the relationship seems to have potential to move forward, a dating background check is highly recommended, and a wise insurance policy.

The potential reward of finding a meaningful relationship and potential partner still outweighs the risk of dating online. Knowing the risk and being informed only increases the odds!

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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