Showing posts with label philippine detectives. Show all posts
Showing posts with label philippine detectives. Show all posts
September 30, 2013
The Dating Scam Evolution in the Philippines














Philippines has been listed in the past few years as a high risk country when it comes to internet fraud, including dating scams. A reliable Philippines detective can tell you that the number of fraud cases is very high compared to most countries. Although this scheme is nothing new and many are aware of the risk, the number of victims continues to climb. The fact is, that most victims don't realized how important it is to be well informed about their romantic partner and to perform dating background checks that can help avoid serious financial losses and heartache. Investigators say there is no foreseeable future of this crime coming to an end. Several reasons support this.

The first reason is that new technologies are constantly emerging and making things easier for all of us, but this also means that scammers get it easier too. The Philippines is a country that stands out for having a tech-savvy population. More than 33 million Filipinos, mainly in the big cities like Manila, are very poor, speak English, and have access to the internet and there is an exponential rise on mobile usage as well. With technology and internet penetration comes increasing risk. Con artists have easy access to devices and many tools available on the web to hide their real locations, to steal information from their victims’ computers, to forge documentation and to develop very complex plots that make it harder for you to figure out who is real and who is not.

The second reason is that as our society evolves, we are getting more familiar with being connected online. In developed countries like the United States, Australia or the United Kingdom, people are used to, and more importantly, are very comfortable with having an active online life. What this implies is that we not always know the boundaries, and we say too much about our lives on the web. Nearly all victims have a false sense of security and don't understand how they can be a victim until it is too late. Many victims say, "the subject never asked me for money", and don't understand how they lost money and/or had their identity stolen. Investigators and privacy experts agree the more you share online the greater at risk you are for fraud and scams.

The fact is that online scamming isn´t about anonymous spam emails anymore. Internet criminals are learning faster than the media and law enforcement can warn about the new risks.

Many Filipina scams involve a scammer who wants to get married to a "wealthy" foreigner in order to get a visa and to attain a higher standard of living. She wants to leave the country no matter what, with whoever she can. In the meantime, she is willing to lie, scam and cheat to increase her income and support her family. In most cases, the families are actively involved and even husbands pretend to be cousins when a foreigner and scam victims comes to visit.

Although the Philippines is not the only country which is an active participant in this phenomenon, it continues to receive a large number of the reports of online dating scams. The discussion on the cultural and economic background of this situation is long and complicated. The impact of romance scams is clear. Private investigators in the Philippines say there are many clean cases and that there are many good people in the Philippines. With the high risk, however, it pays to be safe and skeptical, and verify any new contacts in the country, especially those met online.

S. Birch
© 2013 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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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 9, 2010
Best Philippines Private Investigator

  • 3/09/2010
Choosing a Philippines Private Investigator






The Philippines is a high risk nation for fraud and scams of all types, and as a result, Philippines private investigator and background checks companies are in high demand. The task of finding a professional and experienced private detective in the Philippines, unfortunately, is not easy. Most are local Filipinos who lack professional training, equipment and experience. Finding a professional investigator is truly essential.

According to industry observers, consumers are advised to go with a U.S. or Europe based investigation company, instead of a local Philippine investigation agency or investigator. On average, a U.S. or European company provides a higher level of client service, and the organizations are usually more accountable and transparent. Even though a Philippines based company or "investigator" can offer lower prices, it may mean money wasted. Obtaining evidence requires professional experience.

Currently the largest professional Philippines private detective, Philippine PI™ is based in the United States but maintains an equipped team of 10 to 15 full time field investigators in the Philippines. The company has relationships with embassies, the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation), the NSO (National Statistics Office), and Philippine police agences. The company maintains the highest client satisfaction rate in the industry, and offers full service and discreet private investigation and complete background check services. All investigators are professionally trained, natives of the Philippines, and have experience in federal law enforcement and/or military investigation positions.

Be sure to ask the following questions. Does the agency list its company address and phone number on its Contact Us page? If not, don't even consider it. Does the website display professional seals, such as McAfee, the Better Business Bureau or Truste? Does the website use secure connections so your information is secure? (Look for a lock on your browser). Does the agency offer a secure payment method on its own website? Does the site display a clear Privacy Policy? If the answer to any of these questions is no, be safe and smart, and keep shopping for a professional.

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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