Showing posts with label wymoo international. Show all posts
Showing posts with label wymoo international. Show all posts
August 29, 2012
Wymoo® Advises Caution with Social Networking












Social networking and social networking sites are the latest craze, and people around the world are now connecting, meeting and sharing information like mad.  Facebook is by far the most popular social site of all, where an estimated 800 million or more people of all ages and ethnicities show their profile to millions of others around the world. Social networks have become a great source for information gathering for many.  Employers, law enforcement, private investigators and even criminals now actively use the information found online and on social networks. 

Law enforcement across the U.S. and Europe have reported many cases where the criminal first studied his victim online, before committing the real world crime.  Thanks to all your sharing on social networking sites, criminals can often determine your address, date of birth, where you work and where you went to school, and obtain photos of you and your family, all without ever meeting you.  Then, the criminal can view your house and even what kind of car you drive by using Google Maps.  If you post when you’re away for the weekend or on vacation, it doesn’t take long to see the risk. Private investigators have seen cases of robbery; identity theft, harassment, rape and even murder originate from information first found on a social networking site. 

Careful What You Share 

Privacy is important, and should be treated as such.  Never post your date of birth or address on social networking sites such as Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter, etc.  Remember what you share with your followers or friends, could end up in the wrong hands.  As a rule, know that what you post on the internet, may be visible by the world and hard to get off the internet once it is published.  Never post when you are away from home for strangers and potential criminals to see. 

Be Skeptical of New “Friends” 

Many internet criminals and scammers are using social networking sites as a hunting ground to find their victims.  Scammers often will send you a friend request or want to connect with you.  Their profiles often look harmless, or even exactly what you’re looking for.  They may seem friendly and show no signs of any red flags.  Their goal is to gain your trust, and slowly extract information from you.  Once they have sufficient information on you, they can steal your identity, or even install a virus on your computer via an email attachment to steal your passwords.

Be skeptical of all relationships formed online.  If you believe the person is honest and real, consider a phone conversation before meeting in person, if you plan to do so.  If you meet in person, be sure to meet in a public place.  If the relationship is only online, restrict the communication to your social networking site, and don’t use your personal email. 

Who’s Reading Your Profile? 

Privacy is being threatened every day.  Governments want more control over their citizens, and big brother is watching.  Certain words may trigger a red flag with government agencies to begin to monitor your accounts and activity for “security concerns”.  Or, your employer, without your consent, may begin to include social network monitoring to ensure their employees aren’t engaged in any unethical or “inappropriate” behavior outside the workplace.  Fight for your privacy and take advantage of any privacy settings available on social networking sites.  Set your privacy settings to friends only, and refuse your employer and other companies access.

If you have over 500 contacts or “friends”, you may consider reviewing your contacts, and ask yourself if you trust all those individuals or companies who you’re sharing with. 

Avoid Dating Scams

Online dating and romance scams are no longer exclusively for online dating sites.  Many new romances (and scams) are now started on social networking sites like Facebook.  Watch out for red flags such as requests for money, traveling overseas, situations that seem too good to be true, etc.  If you think the relationship has potential and may be worth pursing, be safe and contact a reputable investigation firm for a discreet dating background check investigation.  

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2012 S. Birch

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February 9, 2012
International Investigators Explain How Social Networks Violate Your Privacy



Governments of the world underestimate the power that internet and few though the internet would reach such a powerful source of information and dissemination of content over the years. Social networks have played a fundamental role in the way news spreads. Politician these days are realizing that the power of the internet and social networks is real, and hard to keep quiet.  They too must join the online propaganda machine.  Social network users publish news instantly, and the world views their comments.  This has major repercussions for a political campaign, natural disasters and other events.  But, social network sites like Facebook might be using your information in ways that you’re not aware of.  It’s not your private space, after all, it’s a business.

Last week we had a sample on how easy it is for the masses to be impacted by privacy policies of Google and Facebook, where there are over 1 billion users who have little choice or say how their private information is being used.  Big Brother is watching, and your private information that you publish, and how you surf the internet is being monitored.  You are being sold down the river.  With privacy gone, and by watching your every step, Facebook can make money from you. 

Most users are simply unaware of how their private information is being monitored, used and sold by social networking sites and search engines like Facebook and Google.  They hope that users don’t have time or understand the specifics of their privacy policies.  Facebook and Google are now worth over 1 billion dollars each.  Do you know why?  Because they are selling your data.

Facebook and Google selfishly violate your privacy right by sharing your data to sponsors and advertisers monetizing the companies involved. Social networks jeopardize the physical and moral autonomy of their users every day.  While you think you may just be posting some information to your friends or family, social networks are watching and selling the information to companies who might want to sell their products to you.  Worse, criminals watch what you post and hope you post private information such as your address, date of birth, and when you are taking a vacation.

International investigators say that your posts and information is valuable information to such companies who are finding new ways to profit from you daily.  Posting your information online, anywhere, and specifically on social networking sites such as Facebook, and directly or indirectly lead to identity theft and other crimes.  At the very least, you will see an increase in spam and other junk mail at your home.  Your name and number and email are being sold in exchange for your “sharing” online with your “friends”.  Experts say be carefully about what you post.  Never share personal information online that could be used by criminals.  Remember that no website is 100% safe and private.  If you want to tell your friends something person, use your email.

Personal information is anything that can identify a person: name, address, date of birth, marital status, contact information, financial records, medical history, where you go, travel, intention to acquire goods, which services you like. Facebook and criminals actively use your information to profit from you.  The more “friends” you have, the more at risk you are.  Like that?
 
All the best,

S. Birch
© 2012 S. Birch
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January 13, 2012
Private Investigators and the BBB Advise Caution on Romance Scams


2012 is here already, and while some new agers are focusing on the Mayan spell of the end of the world by December 21, 2012, others are focusing on staying here for a long time, and living a safe life online and offline. With internet usage worldwide higher than ever in 2012, more users are now also finding love online, and more people are becoming victims of romance scams than ever before. The Better Business Bureau, the FBI and private investigators say the romance scam threat is real, and a growing problem for people in the United States and other countries.

It is a fact that sites like Match.com and Cupid.com are less than interested to conduct background checks on their subscribers and are more interested in their subscription fees. After all, a match making site is not in the private investigation business, and conducting dating background checks and verification is not their area of expertise. They could however outsource or partner with a reliable investigation firm. Despite rumors of a major online dating website or social networking site, such as Facebook or Match.com, to partner with a reputable international investigation company, such as Wymoo® International, so far there have been no such deals reached.

It is the users’ responsibility who they allow to enter into their lives. Right? Maybe. Many users have a false sense of security when they use a major social networking or online dating site, and they aren’t made aware of the risk or the warning signs.

A recent study conducted by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) determined that out of all the scams that are prevalent on the internet, none is more damaging to consumers than romance scams. The in online dating and initiating relationships on social networks is high, and users need to be aware of the risk. Websites should increase their privacy and warn users of the warning signs.

The FBI, Interpol and the BBB advise extra caution to avoid being scammed by a foreign person claiming to be someone else, as identity theft goes along with this fraud. As we can learn in this NBC video where a former victim shares her experience and talks about this fraud.  This can clearly be devastating.

The warning signs vary but include situations that seem too good to be true. People who quickly fall in love on line. Someone who reveals little about his past or current situation. Anyone who asks for money, for any reason. Someone who sends you suspicious emails or attachments. There are endless combinations of romance scams. The countries with the highest concentration of criminals conducting romance scams via the internet are Ghana, Nigeria, Philippines, Ukraine, Russia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, the U.K., Romania and Colombia. But, experts say many criminals now operate from developed countries such as the U.S. and Canada, and the problem is now global, with no country or website immune. If it’s online, it’s at risk for scams.

International private investigators estimate that romance scams cost consumers worldwide over a billion dollars annually, and the number is expected to rise. Verify and then decide.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2012 S. Birch
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December 23, 2011
International Due Diligence Lowering the Risk of Global Business Fraud


 Money matters. Asset managers, hard working citizens and politicians know. It was very clear this year that criminals are also stepping up their money making activities, costing business leaders time and company budgets on fighting the fraud, and the risk from scams and other forms of shady business deals. Experts warn that internet scams are no longer obvious and easy to ignore. Many professional scammers now target CEO’s and other business managers. This is where the real money is. International business is at the highest risk for fraud and misrepresentation, and due diligence is now more important than ever, as managers increasingly rely on the tool.

International due diligence by business managers and global corporations increased significantly in 2011. Industry observers say requests for due diligence by professional private investigation firms regarding due diligence on a business increased approximately 40% over 2010 levels, driven largely by the growing risk from business fraud and scams. With the global recession slowly improving, but still hanging in the balance, many businesses and national economies are struggling for growth. It’s hard to find opportunities in the domestic market, so many business leaders are looking abroad. When small companies and corporations have to seek out new suppliers, new investment and new partnerships in other countries, there is a serious increase in risk.

Some examples of companies losing millions, and even some bankruptcies, as well as major news stories in the media regarding China stock market scams, Russia hackers, or West Africa fraud and gold scams, and many others, has educated the public about the risk for fraud online and offline. More individuals and managers are now doing their homework, and hiring a professional.

Private investigation agencies like Wymoo International reported an increase in international due diligence cases for 2011. Among the highest risk countries, according to the firm, are the UAE, China, Malaysia, Russia, the Ukraine, the Philippines, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa and Brazil. However, experts warn that no country is immune from fraud and even the U.K. saw a sharp increase in business fraud case, according to officials at the Metropolitan Police Service in London. The battle is on for profits. Managers are looking in developing countries for opportunity, and criminals in developing and developed countries are looking to cash in on the fact.

Criminals have been reported and arrested in places such as Canada and Switzerland and even Australia. The point is, not country is completely risk free. When working with international or foreign business partners, the potential for fraud is three to four times greater. Often relationships or investments are found on the internet, and verifying people or companies in another country can be a nearly impossible task. In most cases, it requires having a trained investigator in the local area where you need him to verify operations, reputations, facilities and offices, business registration and filings, and other important factors of the case to avoid the pitfall of fraud and scam.

In places like Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Geneva and Moscow, fake companies are being set up and registered with government agencies. Bank accounts are also set up using this fake company information and aliases or fake IDs are also often used. Very professional appearing websites are then created, and then the criminals make their move. They wait for the business or person to contact them, or they contact the business person directly, or even attend a conference where they can mingle with many people at a time. They leave their business card, they talk a good talk, and they propose an attractive offer or partnership. They may even have a stock listed in the U.S. but with the business based in China! The scams are growing in complexity and verifying foreign contacts is critical. Official documents can be presented to build trust and so on.

Finally, as in nearly all the scams, a request for payment will be made. This can be for a down payment, a payment for shipping, a guarantees, or just to check the victim’s “credit”. In other cases, the criminal may not ask for payment, but rather he will gather sufficient information from the victim so that his identity can be stolen, or other important business records can be stolen.

Don’t think it can’t happen to you. Some of the best minds in your industry or investments may be working for the other side – the criminal side. It can be highly profitable and tracking these criminals down and having them prosecuted can be a major challenge. Foreign and international investment, international suppliers, China stocks, foreign business partners or even Africa gold mines can offer real rewards. Merging with a company in Malaysia or Hong Kong or forming a partnership can be great opportunity. Screening the real deals from the criminals is key. They are out there, and their operations are growing. Be smart. Know the risk and verify, and then decide.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch
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December 13, 2011
Investigator Wymoo® International Sees Risk in U.S. Debt and Dollar

  • 12/13/2011
  • 1


JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA (December 12, 2011) – Wymoo International, a U.S.-based professional background check and international investigation firm, revealed today the risk it sees in its own business expansion as well as for the U.S. economy if the U.S. debt and deficit is not brought under control. Management says the fall of the dollar has resulted from the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy to print dollars as a means to meet debt obligations, digging the hole ever deeper.

Wymoo is in a unique position to sense the impact from the decline of American power. The investigation company operates in over 100 countries, and the declining purchasing power of the U.S. greenback means higher costs to pay overseas investigators who are hired and trained by the firm. As the dollar’s slide continues, American citizens lose their relative wealth in the world, and inflation is hard to miss. Management says the irresponsible policies of the Obama Administration and Federal Reserve Chairman, Ben Bernanke, are increasing the cost and economic opportunity for everyone in the U.S. To hedge the risk, Wymoo is expanding operations outside the United States.

Big government and excessive spending by Barack Obama, as well as the blatant failure of Congress to address the issue has led to unprecedented and unsustainable debt levels. As of the time of this article, the outstanding public debit is $15 trillion USD or $48,307 per tax payer. To pay the interest on this vast debt, the Federal Reserve has implemented a series of ‘Quantitative Easing’, which is a fancy term for printing money and debasing the United States currency. The strength of a country is usually reflected in the strength of its currency. With government spending out of control and a complete lack of prudent leadership from Washington, the dollar’s slide comes as no surprise.

Standard & Poor's downgrade of the United States was the first time in history, from top AAA rating to AA-plus. Moody’s issued a warning for a future downgrade. This is the wake up call.

The uncertainty and worsening economic conditions in the U.S. has resulted in fewer new hires at home. Wymoo International and many other U.S. companies continue to look for opportunities abroad. Fortunately, the increase in international business deals has fueled demand for the firm’s due diligence and international verifications. There is now more outsourcing and foreign hires, which by nature is more risk prone. International business deals, internet fraud and foreign investment scams are up worldwide. Industry observers say Wymoo’s diversified services and global client base has been instrumental in the company’s growth record and ability to weather the storm.

Management hopes the November election can change the course and policies in the United States. David Wilkerson, Vice President and COO, said the company is on track to report its 5th consecutive year of double digit growth. Achieving this success in the future may depend on the recovery on the U.S. economy. “We are optimistic that the country can turn things around if we see real leadership from the White House after the election,” said Wilkerson. “We’re patriots, so when we see the costs rise for American business because of the destruction of our currency, it’s a major concern.”  Most business leaders agree.

Despite the problems in the U.S., Wymoo International will report growth for 2011 and is forecasting moderate growth for 2012. The company’s success has been impressive, and its growth in market share noted by competitors. Future success of many American companies who operate internationally may depend, in part, on the strength of the U.S. dollar. Time is running out!

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch
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Due Diligence is Serious Business When Investing in China


As the holidays approach and everyone has begun the final run for 2012, scammers and criminal operations in China are more active than ever. As North America works to achieve a trade agreement in Asia, no matter how unlikely it may seem, there is no question that the U.S. and China are interlocked with U.S. treasuries and the huge dollar reserves owned by China. We are enemies that are locked together, each impacting the other and unable to let go due to our economic relationship. China’s economy is still rapidly expanding compares to most nations, and as foreign investment in the country grows, so too is the risk for fraud and business scams.

Money transfers, online banking, fake stocks, fraudulent suppliers, and endless other combinations of fraud are present and growing in China. For those who have not been to China and who do not speak Chinese, verifying an international opportunity or investment there can be nearly impossible. But with the scam victims piling up, the word is out that China may offer great opportunity, but it also poses serious challenges and business risk. Reputable China private investigators like Wymoo® International say that any new relationship in China, whether it’s a business manager or a CEO or a government representative, should be verified. In order to verify reputation, operations, financial condition, business registration and other legal filings and risk factors, it’s essential to have someone on the ground who speaks the same language, knows the culture and government contacts, and can provide you with the hard evidence you need to move forward.

In 2011, fraudsters have been moving large sums of money from the U.S. to banks and fake companies in China, and as the new year approaches, other countries are being included as part of a vast international crime organization. China criminals often have accomplices in other developing countries ranging from Southeast Asia to West Africa. Accounts are often set up using false credentials, and money is taken out the moment it is received, wired abroad and never to be found again. The network of money laundering and shell companies, some of which can even be listed on a major stock exchange, are taking investment scams to a new level of sophistication.

The modus operandi for many criminals operating in China who target investors in the U.K., U.S., Canada and Australia is that they register a company legally to avoid suspicion (easy process to do). Then, the criminal group will set up a virtual office or P.O. box in one or more countries to appear like a brick and mortar company. Next, the company will create a very professional looking and convincing website. Then, criminals will begin to target their prey, and this can happen in many subtle ways that often lead the victim to believe that a scam just isn’t possible.
Business is expanding to countries many can’t even locate in an Atlas. China is booming and everyone is rushing to get in, throwing caution to the wind. Experts say the environment is ripe for the criminals who are expanding here. Don’t be a victim of business scam these days or through 2012. International due diligence is a smart way to lower the risk, and to be more informed before making an important business decision. It can make the difference between major loss and profitability. It can mean building meaningful relationships, or becoming a victim.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch
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International Detectives Warn of Scam Risk in Social Networking

Christmas and New Year’s holidays are close. The year is almost over and feelings of love and goodwill start to go around as the end of the year approaches. It is also the time when online scammers make the most of it, taking advantage of the fact that people are less vigilant than usual. Feeling for trusting than usual perhaps, or maybe more lonely. Whatever the cause, law enforcement and private investigators agree that scams and fraud increase this time of year.
Remaining skeptical and cautious online can make this difference this season.



Internet users will be more active sending greeting cards and wishes to their friends and family by email and also getting in touch with family on the social networks, where Facebook and Twitter play a leading role, and scammers know this. The modus operandi this time is taking you by surprise by sharing links that will target your curiosity, supposedly shared by your friends: “You've got to check out this pic I've found of the two of us” or similar. You will click that link that brings you to a log page where of course your computer might start to download a virus, a key logger program or other malicious scripts. Or, you could be asked to reenter you login information to what appears to be Facebook or Twitter. Once the criminals have your login information, you’ve been a victim and there’s no turning back. And it can all happen in the matter of seconds.

Phishing scams and hackers play the numbers game and out of the thousands of attempts, hundreds become victims. In fact, more than a million computers are infected with a virus on a daily basis, many of which originate from Eastern Europe and Russia. It is a busy time for hackers that will take every opportunity to send you links that seriously compromise your computer and even your mobile device. International private investigators and other security agencies around the world, and anti-virus software companies like Symantec are warning the public about the threat, but even with educated and careful computer users, there is a real risk.

When an email or Facebook or Twitter or Match.com message is from a friend or contact, and the email or message seems completely legit, why wouldn’t you click on the link? That, say experts, is exactly why the scams are so successful. Once that click is made, often it’s too late.

The “questionnaire survey” is also a big risk. Scammers will ask your name, address, and telephone number to build a large database to be sold to third parties. Sharing links is an important part of social media dynamic, but this time scammers are making their own to be able to access valuable information about users. That information they take will be used against you, putting your friends in serious danger as well by getting private information about you and your contacts that later on will be used against them. This is information theft and leads to identity theft.

The video above does a great job at showing the scams in action. Be safe, think before you click.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch
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November 26, 2011
International Due Diligence Recommended for Business in China


Cyber crime is becoming a top priority for police and law enforcement agencies around the world. We have seen the recent gathering at the Interpol headquarters where Timothy A. Williams, Director of the agency in Washington stressed the need for more security and more efficient ways to prosecute internet criminals. In the U.S. it seems that the Maine State Police Computer Crime Unit has been recognized to have one of the best units in the country for computer forensics work, but so far the technology is only being used to track digital information for investigations regarding local suspects for murder investigations and sexual predators. Law enforcement in the U.S. and Europe is making strides to enhancing technology to catch conventional criminals, but cyber crime remains ahead of the law enforcement curve. Much work is to be done in this area. In fact, as the China economy is booming, so has the number of serious business fraud cases in China, impacting European and U.S. citizens. So far, going after these criminals is major challenge.

New technology and law enforcement tools have been introduced in the field of cyber forensics, but the criminals are developing their techniques as well. In fact, recently a U.S. spy satellite was hijacked by a hacker that was traced back to China. If the United States can’t protect or control it’s own satellites, consumers and businesses should take note that their information may not be so secure. Businesses investing or conducting business in China should be aware of the high risk for fraud and scams. Even when criminals are identified and located, prosecution is an entirely different matter. Ever been to a criminal trial in China, in Chinese, in a communist court? You get the idea. Once the money is lost in most cases, it’s nearly impossible to get back.

China private investigators are adding some serious value in their efforts of fraud and scam prevention. Through comprehensive due diligence and background check services, individual investigators and corporate clients can minimize their risk, and many are using such services as a prudent form of insurance. It pays to be safe when working with a Chinese company.

China is a land with little regulation, and even less transparency. Verifying management, operations, representatives, legal filings, and reputation is key. If you’re buying a significant amount of shares of a Chinese company, getting a new supplier from China, or working out a new deal with a Chinese firm, be safe and be aware of the risks. Contact a professional private investigation firm with agents on the ground, who speak the language, know the culture, and have the necessary contacts to verify you are in fact dealing with a real and reputable company in China.

So far the most affected countries from crimes committed online are the U.S., the U.K, Canada and Australia. Victims can suffer from extortion, theft, identity theft, advance fee fraud, financial loss or even legal charges if they indeed become involved with an illegal business.

Investing in China? Consider a professional international due diligence service to verify unknown parties and companies. Ignoring the risk can be a costly learning experience.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch
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November 18, 2011
Philippines Detectives Share the Facts about Due Diligence

  • 11/18/2011
  • 1

In recent days the news about Vulcano Industrial and Mining Corporation receiving over 700 million Philippines pesos hit the international headlines. China Trend Investments Limited, a company based in Hong Kong did the transaction after conducting a 60 day due diligence. But, it wasn’t enough. Management often knows the importance of due diligence, but sometimes fails to recognize when hiring a professional private investigator is essential. In cases involving one or more foreign countries, experts say it’s important to consult a professional international due diligence firm. Management should focus on the numbers, but leave the fraud screening and actual verifications to experienced investigators, according to one spokesperson at the FBI.

The internet is a vital part of our daily life and business, especially when it comes to international business. Management and companies now have the ability to establish relationships and find investment opportunities online. Companies in Hong Kong and New York and London can learn about other companies offering services or supplier contracts in Sao Paulo, Cairo or Kuala Lumpur or even Accra. When starting any new business relationship, third parties and businesses proposals must be vetted. Ignoring the risk can lead to bankruptcy and even jail time.

Firms now have the chance to partner with and grow and make deals with companies all over the globe, and Southeast Asia is no exception. Unfortunately, the reputation of this region has been stained with the ongoing scams and frauds in recent years. Criminal groups from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Manila, Philippines, and other countries have been putting corporations and investors at risk. Savvy criminals now how to pitch a proposal and attract investors and foreign investment. Once the payment is made, or the sensitive information obtained about the victim (the company), the fraud has been executed, and it’s too late to go back. International business is key to surviving in today’s difficult environment. As American companies continue to suffer from the socialist policies of Barack Hussein Obama, America’s first Muslim president and foreign national to lead the world’s most powerful nation, the economic repercussions have been felt worldwide. The U.S. continues to collapse under unprecedented debt levels and the dollars is in free fall.

Philippines private investigators say the U.S. decline has caused many U.S. and U.K. and Australia corporations to seek investment in developing countries, seeking a safe haven from the U.S. turmoil, or simply a place to avoid high taxes imposed by the Obama administration. Others are looking for profitable investment and business relationships to survive the dismal U.S. economy. Regardless, firms are looking further to stay afloat, and companies and individuals in other countries, where language, culture and business practices are different, must be verified.

In the U.S., for example, to conduct due diligence is an acceptable procedure and usually businessmen and CEO’s openly support it. Business people in developing and developed nations understand that verifying proposals and investments and relationships is essential.

A good impression from a counterpart is a good sign, and companies that have nothing to hide, are more than willing to help in the process and let their inner operations be screened. It’s part of getting the deal, after all. The scenario can be a little bit different in Asia, where companies and business managers often want to keep operations secret and private. This only adds to the lack of transparency, and makes conducting business in Asia all the more risk inherent.

The Philippines is a poor underdeveloped country and struggling economy, immerse in debt and seriously harmed by ongoing inflation, financial crisis and a high corrupt political systems. Ironically it also offers a wide range of good business possibilities in trade, electronic products, minerals, petroleum, call centers, technology, agriculture and manufacturing. It is one of the best countries to perform telemarketing services and it is a tourist paradise as it has one of the most beautiful island and beach landscapes in the world. Where there is potential reward, there is risk. To be safe in today’s environment, in Asia and elsewhere, be safe and get the due diligence.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch
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November 7, 2011
International Detectives Warn on Investment Scams



This is the first time in history that the whole world is in economic jeopardy. From the Baltic Sea to the southern seas off South Africa and Argentina, we see individuals and small business and large corporations keeping a close eye on their financials, expenses and business relationships. Cutting expenses is now a priority for people and firms around the world. The developed world is no longer a safe haven. The United States economy and dollar is near the point of no return, thanks to reckless spending and socialist policies of the Hussein Obama administration. If the trend continues, the U.S. will be sunk in debt. And yet, while the world is nearly collapsing, there are more countries and criminals taking advantage of those seeking opportunity abroad.

This is the case of the Southeast Asia region, where places like China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, the Philippines and Malaysia are making good profit from scamming investors worldwide.

Paul Fletcher vice president of of international due diligence services at Wymoo® International LLC explains that criminals are increasingly using sophisticated approaches in targeting their victims. Criminals can now be referred or seemingly recommended by a trusted source, via the internet or even a business associate. These recommendations often give business leaders a false sense of security, causing many businesses to not properly screen their international business partners. Even if an international supplier or partner firm or investor comes highly recommend, experts urge caution and due diligence. Verifying international businesses and business people is more important than ever. The risk for fraud is high. There are stocks and companies and websites that take on the appearance of a reputable firm, there are representatives who are criminals that claim to be spokespersons or managers of real and reputable firms. The scam approaches are complex, and often authentic documentation or stolen documents can be used as supporting evidence. Criminals are often knowledgeable of the industry and offer a very attractive investment opportunity or profitable business relationships. In short, scams can be hard to recognize.

International background checks are an important tool in the screening process, and can go a long way in minimizing the risk for scams and fraud. Victims who choose not to verify, or verify to the best of their ability without hiring a professional investigation firm can end up losing thousands or even millions. A stock analyst or CEO can verify the numbers, make phone calls, and search the internet to be sure. He can look over all the documents and contracts and believe he is making an informed decision. But, if all the information is false, and the documents are forged, and if the business address is actually an empty parking lot or warehouse, most investors and CEO’s have no way to know unless they have a team of trained professionals on the ground in Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, the Philippines, Malaysia, Russia, Vietnam, the Ukraine, China, Brazil or wherever the case and company may be. Local expertise and international investigation support is key.

Whether you’re considering investing in a Chinese stock listed on the NASDAQ, or investing in a gold supplier in Ghana, signing with a new supplier in Turkey or the Ukraine or Dubai, be safe and consider a professional investigation firm with investigators on the ground. It’s a wise way to minimize your risk and be sure the person or firm you’re dealing with is legit.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch
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September 19, 2011
International Investigators Report on Dark Side of Online Dating



We hear hundreds of thousands of stories about online dating. And there’s a wide range of stories between whopping failure and ultimate success. Some of them, are sad stories full of deceit and financial loss. Investigators have written many articles on how to prevent internet users about the serious risks of online dating and internet use. The risk is there and is getting higher and higher, and it doesn’t matter what professional private investigators or the media do to warn people, new fraud and scam cases are forming every day. The secret to criminals’ success is the fact that there are endless combinations and way to scam their victims, and thousands of websites to choose from. There is no easy way to describe romance scams, because criminals creativity enables them to stay in business. What works one month, may not work the next. Internet criminals can change their approach and identity easily and frequently, leaving consumers at risk.

Dating sites like Cupid.com, Match.com. Christian.com etc; are full of fake profiles or stolen identities mixed in with the real subscribers and honest users. Sorting through this mess can be frustrating and a costly adventure. Scammers often claim to be travelling or working abroad, and can present an elaborate story of success. They seem to be the perfect match, and they may spent months gaining your trust and building that story. Is it believable? Absolutely. That is the secret to their success. Private investigators say they seem victims from all walks of life, including lawyers, doctors and police officers. Hence, it can be expected that retired people and new people to the internet are especially susceptible. Bogus profiles are a growing problem.

International private investigators say that sites like Match.com ask simply don’t have the ability to screen their millions of members. It’s not practical and it’s not their job. It’s up to the consumer, unfortunately, to know the warning signs and stay alert, constantly on the lookout for anything suspicious. In the electronic world of the internet, this is not an easy task. Online dating sites ask users a questionnaire, where you let them know who your perfect match would be, his or her looks, traditions, costumes, hobbies, likes, smoker, non smoker, social drinker , social life of the party, etc. Scammers and internet criminals in turn use this information to their advantage.

Scammers often create bait profiles, where they are trying to attract paying members of the site to initiate contact, or take the bait. When the victim contacts the criminal, he or she is far less likely to see the red flags, because, after all, they are the ones who contacted the criminal.

What to do in this high risk environment o to find love? Well, some of the best advice could be, get up from that chair, leave the PC and go out to a bar, café, club, neighborhood event, party, work or school gathering, church, etc and meet real human beings that live nearby. The internet is changing lives, no one disputes that, but unfortunately not all of the changes are for the better.

If you do meet someone special online, know the risks and be safe. Consider a confidential dating background check by a reputable private investigation firm to minimize your risks.

All the best,

S. Birch

© 2011 S. Birch
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August 26, 2011
Dating Background Checks: The Missing Link




Online dating sites like Match.com, eHarmony, Cupid.com, and even social networking sites like Facebook and Linkedin seem to be great ways to meet new people and connect with potential mates from all over the world. Meeting new friends, professional contacts or even romance online is now the norm. The benefits are clear and plentiful. Seemingly overlooked, however is the rapidly increasing rate of fraud and scam being committed on such websites.

Opponents say major social networking and match-making sites have no interest in warning their users about the high risk for scams and fraud. No internet site is immune from fraud, after all. But, skeptical says these websites should be doing much more to educate, warn and protect their subscribers. Management at most companies say they lack the expertise and manpower to verify all new subscribers, and because large sites like Match.com and Facebook now have millions subscribers, there simply isn’t any realistic way to verify and screen all users on online.

How to stay safe online when online dating and social networking sites don’t aggressively screen their users? Most sites offer tips and information about fraud and scam prevention. (Although this information is very easy to overlook and usually not enough, say experts). Industry observers say at the end of the day, it is the responsibility of the consumer and website subscriber to know the risks, unfortunately. Media and law enforcement agencies routinely give consumer advice on how to stay safe online, but with criminals evolving and changing their tactics constantly, it’s hard to stay up to speed. In most cases, online dating and social networking site subscribers will turn to a professional investigation firm such as Wymoo® International for an international background check. Demand for such verification services continues to grow with the risking risk.

Most scammers today operate from countries like Nigeria, Ghana, the Philippines, Russia, the Ukraine, South Africa, Benin, Colombia and Malaysia. However, due to unchecked immigration in developed countries, Nigerian and Chinese criminal groups now operate from the U.S. and U.K. No country is immune from such groups thanks to globalization and overpopulation. The easy flow of people and information across borders is now a fact of life, so online criminals can move easily and have criminal accomplices or cells operating from other countries. Operating from internet cafes or hiding behind proxy servers (rendering IP address tracing obsolete), the groups are hard to identify, hard to locate and hard to prosecute. Because they hide in countries with significant corruption and lack of rule of law, getting an arrest is a major challenge.

Dating background checks are the key ingredients in the recipe for avoiding fraud online. Even when Mr. or Ms. Perfect seems to be so innocent, so perfect, and you have no reason whatsoever to doubt the person, expert advise caution. Professional scammers know how to get your personal information and your money, and they are willing to take the time to gain your trust, and slowly gather your information, without you ever realizing what is happening – even if it takes months. A typical response from a scam victim is “but, he never even asked me for money.” Stay safe online and keep your personal data private, and if in doubt, contact a professional investigation firm for a dating background investigation to have the person verified.

A true dating background check is a professional private investigation, carried out by trained and experienced investigators. Such services can include fraud screening, travel records, civil and criminal records, marriage records, identity verification, education and employment verification, address verification, public records and ID or passport verification, and much more. Don’t be fooled by a website claiming to conduct a “background check” for $39.99 by searching a generic database on the internet. Contact a real investigator and find out the truth.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch
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August 16, 2011
International Investigators Say Seniors a Target for Online Scams

Seniors have a lifetime of experience and an understanding that most younger people simply can’t fully appreciate. Most senior citizens are kind and loving people, and trusting of others and believe in good things from the people they know, and even strangers. Seniors generally have a positive outlook and are thankful for their lives and experiences. May seniors have had successful marriages and children, and frankly have grown up in a more trusting and meaningful world than today’s electronic, overpopulated concrete jungle that has become the new reality. With more seniors accessing the internet, criminals have set their targets on this trusting group.

Criminals know well that senior citizens typically don’t have the tech savvy and understanding of the risks of the internet as do younger people, who have grown up online. Some seniors are lonely or widowers, and try to meet new friends and even partners on the internet. Targeting these trusting and honest seniors are despicable criminals, who often operate from organized criminal cells in countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Russia, the Ukraine, the Philippines, Malaysia or even the U.K. Scammers often operate out of cyber cafes or hide behind proxy servers, making it difficult to track down these criminals who perpetrate the crimes. Organized crime in West Africa and Southeast Asia now have connections and accomplices operating in the U.K. and U.S., where lax immigration policies have led to the near ruin of each country, and criminals operate freely and undetected from within their borders. It pays to remember that most of the 19 Muslim terrorists who murdered more than 2,900 innocent people on September 11, 2001 were illegal aliens. One of the fast growing crimes among undocumented immigrants is internet scams and fraud.

The internet can be overwhelming for anyone, especially seniors. Fast developing and changing technology with new websites, applications, hundreds of online dating and social networking sites to choose from is hard to keep up with. Loneliness often drives seniors into this electronic world without knowing the risks. More and more seniors are reporting the crime and scams to local law enforcement and also to the FBI. Wymoo® International, a professional international investigation firm, says that they have seen a sharp increase in the number of internet scams targeting seniors. The most important factor is prevention and educating seniors to be more skeptical, never to provide personal data online, and never send money to anyone overseas, for any reason. Be careful about revealing personal information, and keep social security numbers, ID copies, addresses and birth dates protected. If in doubt, contact a reputable international background check company for a discreet and confidential background check to verify the person.

Love is complicated. New relationships online are full of risk, but there are good and honest people out there. Online dating and social networking is a new option for senior citizens who are seeking new friends and partners. It’s a useful tool that can bring comfort and happiness, or tragedy. So if you are involved in online relationships, take precautions and be safe and wise. Know that the risk for identity theft, romance scams and advance fee fraud is real. Know that criminals are expert scammers and can be very convincing, and anyone can be a victim. Stay skeptical.

Professional international investigators are discreet and offer strictly confidential services. They can help you verify if your online contact is who he or she claims to be. For seniors, they can offer valuable advice, and give you the peace of mind you need to make an important decision. Be safe, protect your personal information, never send money, and contact a reputable international investigation firm for assistance when in doubt. It’s good insurance to have.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch

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July 26, 2011
South Africa Background Checks Reveal Fraud in Africa



The South African economy is still struggling like most other economies, but private investigators say their business is actually doing quite well. One of the factors supporting the PI business in South Africa is the demand for background checks on individuals and businesses. A closer look at the demand for background checks reveals another problem growing in the nation.

Phishing attacks and email spam is up, and more and more of it is coming from South Africa, according to officials familiar with the investigations in Johannesburg. This doesn’t mean that South Africa is alone. In fact the FBI and Interpol both report that scams and internet fraud and phishing emails and spam is a problem in every country, and continue to be a threat to internet users. Stopping these criminals is a high priority with no easy solution, so far.

South African consumers are exposed to more phishing attacks because it is the only Sub Saharan country with a developed online banking service. Other countries do not offer full online banking services and most of the population lacks bank accounts in many countries in Africa. Criminals in East Africa have used mobile phone-based tricks in which subscribers receive fake messages informing them that they have won money and are asked to transfer a certain amount via the phone as a "processing fee." South Africa has become the target as well as the creator of many online scams types. As a result, South Africans themselves are no demanding background checks, as well having background checks done on them, like no other African nation.

South Africa background checks conducted by professional private investigators can be highly effective. In Nigeria, the scams started with the infamous "419", promising millions left behind by people, or scams involving lucrative oil contracts and inheritance. With the access of mobile devices to internet, criminals take advantage of this new element as their connections are very difficult to trace. Most of them use phone numbers from other parts of the region close to South Africa and make it nearly impossible for the authorities to be traced. Demand for background checks has shown just how serious the problem as gotten, as private investigators report nearly a 100% growth in background check demand in the past two years. Investigation companies say most of the demand is coming from online dating as well as business due diligence. What is clear, however, is that increasingly South Africans and foreigners are now aware of the risk.

Nigeria scams are one of the culprits targeting South African residents, say investigators in Johannesburg and Cape Town. Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa and the crime has evolved just as fast as its birth rate. Law enforcement and courts are corrupt here, and one of the problems is the inability of most GSM operators to create unique profiles for their users. Most of the GSM customers are prepaid and unidentifiable, and it’s the perfect place to conduct fraud and scams from, with little risk of being identified. Criminals from neighboring West Africa countries agree and share similar advantages. Education about the risks is key to prevention.

In the meantime, contact a South Africa private investigator to verify relationships, whether personal or business, to minimize your risk in Africa. Know the facts and be informed.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch


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Ghana Background Checks Up with Gold Scams



As the U.S. dollar and Euro seem to be collapsing, precious minerals and especially gold continues to rally to hedge inflation, and the falling value of paper money. Physical assets are in, and with real estate prices also hurting, gold is fastly becoming the new standard, once again. Gold has served as the answer to the global market, as investors see limited options on the table, and a terrible amount of uncertainty. Socialist and Anti-American policies by Barack Hussein Obama have led to excessive government spending and unsustainable debt levels at a time when America can least afford it. The repercussions of the fall of the United States under the Obama administration are global, and a possibility of a third-world style default in the new Obama America has even more investors seeking shelter in Gold. China and Russia and many others are bailing ship, and seeking financial reserves in gold as the United States show littler promise. And, with the rise of gold, everyone has been trying to get in on the action. Ghana, West Africa, is the third largest producer of gold on the planet, and it also happens to be a major center for scams and fraud. With the rise in gold prices, Ghana private investigators say scams are booming!

Gold deals and investment are taking place around the world. There are gold investors, mining and exploration, wholesale, retail, hedge funds, bars, dust, coins, gold suppliers, gold shippers, and jewelry companies and many other ways to get in the industry or invest in the market. With all the international investment and procurement of gold, it’s no wonder that scams are rising, as criminals try to profit from the surge as well. Ghana criminals mainly operate from West Africa and significantly raise the risk for investors looking for mining or suppliers for gold in West Africa. However, it’s important to know that Ghana scammers also have accomplices and networks around the world, including China, Spain, the U.K and the United States. Therefore, experts say, a Ghana scammer doesn’t necessarily need to be in Ghana. The scam and fraud is now global.

While gold is being marketed as the safe haven by financial advisors, hedge funds companies and investments consultants as a source of stability in such volatile markets and times, criminals are taking advantage of this. Online scammers are using this perceived trust and stability to convince their victims that they too are safe, and that the investment is real. The scammers will even provide a list of references, speak knowledgeable about gold, and provide government issued documents confirming they are real? Why not invest in the Ghana gold mining operation, China gold sellers, or international gold supplier? Many investors are learning the hard way that Ghana background checks and international due diligence is key to avoiding the high risk.

When you invest in a gold exchange-traded fund, you do not become the sole owner the precious mineral. For an ETF represented to be backed by gold, the fund managers will contract with a custodian to hold the gold in a vault. The custodian is usually a large, international bank, serving as a custodian for numerous customers. In Ghana, for example, one of the biggest gold sellers, the PMMC (Precious Minerals Marketing Commission) is the one holding the gold, receiving the money into an account and paying the local agent. Once the payment has been verified and accepted, a person from the PMMC will deliver the gold, usually sold as powder rather than bars as it is easier to handle. Most of the time, because the custodian is a multi-national corporation with thousands of accounts, when the precious mineral is bought or sold, the metal never physically moves. A title to the bars of gold is simply transferred from the seller to the buyer as a book entry in a computer network. Scammers know how this system works, and exploit it.

But in this world of greed and internet access, nothing is completely secure anymore. Stephen Garcia, Vice President of Private Investigations at Wymoo® International says it has become really common for fake companies with partners in China and Ghana to try to scam investors in the U.S. “What we’re seeing is some very savvy criminals posing as legitimate shippers, mining companies and representatives at the PMMC,” says Garcia. “The forgeries are very well done, and scam operations can be quite convincing. In many cases, it’s just not possible to know who you’re dealing with, especially via the internet.” By claiming they hold accounts in the PMMC, they also claim to have legal representatives in the U.S. and they show companies legal paper and most of the investors find out once they have paid, that the whole transaction was a fraud.

While the gold rush is on, law enforcement and  international private investigators say the risk should remain high for scams and fraud, and due diligence is advised.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch

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July 25, 2011
Malaysian Due Diligence Critical for Investing in Malaysia, Say Investigators



Many in Asia are shocked by the recent discoveries of crime rings in Southeast Asia. In the past days, over 600 people have been arrested with charges of internet fraud and scams. As we read through the News lines, our eyes get wider, because we’ve seen this ring getting bigger, emerging mainly in Malaysia in partnership with China, Indonesia, and Cambodia. Although the scam and fraud types have varied, the criminals are organized and are targeting small businesses, multi-national corporations and investors seeking access to the Asian economy.

Malaysia private investigators have uncovered that the main frauds performed in this Asian region have to do with money transfers that fake companies in Malaysia and China mainly, and victims impacted small businesses around the world, individuals and even Fortune 500 companies. “Criminals in this region have discovered that the internet offers the anonymity they need to escape prosecution, in most cases,” explains John Wallace, Director or Background checks at Wymoo® International. “Because the criminals have operated from multiple countries, shutting the crime rings down requires the coordination of law enforcement in several countries, and that has been the biggest challenge.” In all, over 600 people were arrested and who was the leader of the group has yet to be revealed. The damage done to international businesses operating in or trying to invest in Asia has been in the hundreds of millions of dollars. The fraud and scams levels are still growing in Asia, despite the arrest, and experts say caution is advised.

Scammers in this recent bust, and also in many that continue to operate usually use the internet and VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) to telephone their victims. Through email and many phone calls, and of course a lot of fake documents and bank accounts, the criminals convince their victims that they represent a real company or government agency. Somewhere along the line, an agreement will be made, and a payment will follow. Once payment is made, the scam has been completed. In the case of corporate investors, commodity suppliers, hedge funds and other large business transactions, the cost of the fraud can be very high. International private investigators say that without visiting the Asian country to see the company you’re dealing with directly, it can be very difficult to know who is real and who is not. And even then, there is still risk.

These con artists who are scamming major businesses and investments typically have very strong communication skills, and they speak the industry logo and have done their homework. All of the front is part of convincing the victim that the deal and opportunity is real. And there is pressure, because if the foreign company wants to get in on the Asian deal, to investment in Shanghai or Kuala Lumpur, etc, they have to act fast. The offer from the supplier, company or investor (the criminal himself) is only valid for a short amount of time, and payment is required to close.

Most of the internet crimes perpetrated could have been avoided if the targets would have been aware of the high risk in the region, and would have taken better precautions. Seasoned investors and business people who have worked in China, Malaysia and Vietnam know that due diligence is essential, and it is a cost of doing business in the region. Entering a business relationship without conducting a comprehensive background check and due diligence is very ill-advised.

The opportunity in China and Malaysia is attractive, and there are certainly opportunities to be had. However, given the high risk for fraud and scams, experts say international due diligence is part of the investment and should be the foundation from which to build. Going in blind or with your fingers crossed is asking for trouble, and in Asia, trouble can be very costly. Managers and CEO’s should think twice and consider a professional due diligence services as a valuable risk management tool to verify companies, contacts, offers and operations in Asia.

All the best,

S. Birch

© 2011 S. Birch
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July 22, 2011
South Africa Background Checks Used to Avoid Internet Fraud



July comes with the news that some internet criminals have been prosecuted and put behind the bars, in the U.K. and now in South Africa. In one South Africa scam case, a police officer was involved in a fraud ring, traced and tracked down by South Africa private investigators who picked up the evidence needed to have the scammer put in jail. Increasingly, due to the recent rise in criminal activity in South Africa, law enforcement and private investigators are advising for South Africa background checks.

The truth is that most of the cases involving the internet are very difficult to prosecute. The main reason is because most criminals are located in different countries from their victims. Along the years, developed countries have been the main target of internet scammers. Americans, Canadians, British and Australians seem to be the best pick for romance scams, investment fraud, advance fee fraud, and other internet scams. Lottery fraud is out, and the new approach is seeking out victims and easy prey on social networking sites and online match-making websites. Small businesses are also the target, where criminals pretend to have attractive business deals, and they use fake websites and documentation to convince their victims. The criminals are quite convincing.

South Africa is the most developed country on the African continent, and yet internet crimes seem to be spiraling out of control here, although not quite as bad as in West Africa, where Ghana and Nigeria are the clear leaders for online criminal activity. In fact, many criminal organizations conducting online fraud and scams in Johannesburg and Cape Town are actually Nigerian nationals and immigrations, say South Africa private investigators. These days, especially on the internet, it can be hard to know who you’re dealing with. Throw in the internet and another country, and the risk is high.

Tracking IP addresses is no longer effective, as criminals often operate from cyber cafes and use IP proxy server to hide their true location. When they are tracked down, having law enforcement make an arrest, and a court making a prosecution is a separate and difficult challenge. In short, prevention is the key ingredient to avoid the mess, and that’s why experts say a background check or due diligence investigation is essential when dealing with individuals and new business contacts in South Africa.

Internet criminals remain hidden in most case. The recent arrests made in South Africa are a very encouraging sign that law enforcement is making some progress, and that perhaps the crime rate could begin to drop. In the meantime, be safe and skeptical. Know the risks, and verify before engaging in business or personal relationships. And as always, never provide personal data or payment to anyone overseas who has not been verified. South Africa successfully beat internet fraud in the past, and most say the bad economy is responsible for the renewed crime way. Time will tell, and we will see history if history repeats itself, and South Africa overcomes this new crime wave.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch

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July 19, 2011
UK Private Investigators Say Millions Lost from Internet Scams


While West Africa is the highest risk country in the region, with countries like Ghana and Nigeria being overwhelmed with fraud, there is a new and disturbing trend emerging from the U.K. Although the U.K. is a highly developed nation with strict law and order, it is also a country struggling to deal with the exploding problem of internet fraud and scams. A recent study sponsored by the British government has uncovered surprising results about all the money lost from internet fraud and scams. And the numbers are shocking. UK private investigators have been aware of the risk for quite some time, and it’s only now that the government is acknowledging the problem. As the public becomes more aware, it is hoped the crime will dissipate.

The United Kingdom has lost an estimated 27 billion pounds in 2010 alone from internet scams, where private businesses recorded the largest losses. Industries like pharmaceuticals, biotech, electronics, IT and chemicals have lost significant amounts of money resulting from intellectual property theft, industrial espionage and extortion coming from transferring money overseas to fake companies in China. In most cases, this big loss could have been avoided if these companies would have conducted an international due diligence prior to getting involved with agents, contacts or other companies outside the U.K. Private investigators and law enforcement agencies urge consumers and businesses to verify new international relationships, especially when the relationships are formed via the internet. Not doing so, leaves one wide open to fraud.

One contact familiar with the study said the problem is “endemic” and is increasingly a major threat to the British economy. The information regarding the size of the annual financial losses in caught many by surprise. According to the first government-sponsored study of online fraud and scams, 2011 is likely to be even worse. Consumers and businesses beware.

Among the business fraud and internet scams targeting businesses, individuals are heavily targeted by internet criminals as well. Crimes range from romance scams, identity theft, relationship fraud, investment scams, inheritance scams and many more. Many criminal groups in Nigeria and Ghana now have accomplices and satellite criminal rings operating in London, a result of uncontrolled immigration policies in the U.K., and Britain’s failure to protect its border.

Even more shocking is that international private investigators say many crimes go unreported, as citizens and businesses are embarrassed, or otherwise don’t want people to know that they’ve been a victim. As a result, the financial losses could be much higher than reported.

Fraudsters are professionals and they know how to target their victims. The internet provides them with anonymity that lowers the risk of being caught and prosecuted. Security ministers in London are urging that measures be taken to stop the crime trend, although thus far law enforcement has no effective tools to prevent it. By October, the U.K. will open an office serving online victims called The Cyber Security and Information Assurance Office, though its efficiency and effectiveness will be a challenge, since many criminals operate from outside the U.K. Crimes can originate as far away as Ghana, Nigeria, Malaysia, Thailand, Russia, the Ukraine, the Philippines and China. How the office will address this foreign threat is unclear. One step that everyone agrees on is making consumers and businesses more aware of the threat. To lower the risk, a professional UK background check or international due diligence is advised.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch

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July 15, 2011
Ghana Private Investigators Face Evolving Internet Scams



There is no doubt that Ghana and Nigeria are the top countries for online fraud and scams, and even though most people know about the risk, scammers are far from going out of business. Criminal operations in West Africa are actually growing, and scam victims are increasing in number as well. Ghana private investigators say most people really don’t understand how sophisticated this crime has become, and it no longer takes a fool to be victim of the crime.

Online criminals have evolved and understand that victims no longer fall for the old time stories about someone dying in a plane crash leaving millions of dollars, or a major inheritance has luckily fallen in your hands. These scams are for amateurs. The new face of Ghana and Nigeria scams is rapidly changing, and scammers have reinvented themselves to avoid detection from would be victims. Even major global companies like Coca Cola or and government offices like the FBI have to be on the lookout. The reach of internet scammers conducting fraud online is worldwide, and the risk is real. Criminals are now using domains and email addresses that appear to be from business or government addresses, and authentic looking documentation and passports are being used to gain the victim’s trust. Furthermore, scammers in West Africa may even have a phone number in New York or London, where they make and receive calls, appearing to be in that countries. They talk the talk and know the industry lingo. They’ve done their homework, and are quickly learning what it takes to steal your money. It’s becoming harder to screen for fraud and to verify the facts, and often times individuals and business turn to a professional investigator.

Criminals rarely ask for money or payment for service or shipment until trust has been established. Surprisingly, this trust building process can last up to a year or even more, until they are certain that their victim is ready. This is when a contract, business deal, or investment will be agreed upon, and the Ghana criminal will ask for initial payment. Or, if it’s a personal relationship, an emergency will suddenly strike, or the scammer will ask for money to help with travel expenses to visit the client. The list goes on and on, as scammers earn a living through their creativity. A West Africa scammer might have a London address, London phone number, and British accent, and ask for funds to be sent to London, and he or she will provide the goods or services next week, they say. How could this possibly be a Nigerian or Ghana scam case? Simple. Internet criminals now have accomplices throughout the developed world, and such criminals are often in the U.S. or U.K. as illegal, undocumented immigrants. These are criminal organizations with global reach.

Con artists are professionals and they can falsify all kinds of documents: passports, visas, letters from the migration service or international revenue service or any police department or gold export permits, etc. The truth is that most of these documents have been stolen or even created using false or stolen credentials. In other words, a falsified birth certificate and personal data can be used to create a real government issued passport. It gets complicated? How can you be sure you know who you’re dealing with, and that the identity of the person truly matches the documentation and that all facts are verified? In most cases, it takes a professional Ghana background check service to verify the individual and details, and screen for fraud.

Ghana is a growing and developing economy and will soon become a middle income nation. It welcomes international commerce and investment, and the country is rich in natural resources, precious metals and gold. With gold prices approaching $1600 USD per ounce, Ghana gold scammers are working overtime. With online dating more popular than ever, scammers are quickly setting up profiles on major match-making sites. Be safe. Verify first.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch

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July 8, 2011
UK Private Investigators Reveal the Profile of a Scam Victim



The computer laboratory at the University of Cambridge in the U.K. has developed a project of studies revealing the facts that make victims vulnerable for online frauds. Supposedly, one of the main reasons a person falls a victim to fraud or scam is that victims have been let down in one way or another, i.e. friends, lovers, family, employment, or a general negative or dismal outlook, and the potential victim soon looks for answers and solutions or better things via the internet. The social internet comes as an alternative source in which people believe to be safe. It’s not clear how accurate these findings are. However, the university along with UK private detectives have found evidence indicating some common factor among scam victims.

With some common traits among scam victims, private investigators and university researchers believe this information can be used to make websites safer, and help educate consumers. In short, the following information can be useful in stopping fraud and scams. Knowledge is power, and the following is another tool in the ongoing battle to fight fraud. With the rapid increase in reported fraud cases around the world that involve the internet, education and prevention is becoming essential to being safe online.

Distraction: This one pays an important role mostly in employment scams. People are so focused to fill in forms with personal and professional information that they often forget to check if the form is secure with SSL (lock on your browser) or check to see if the website itself is reputable and safe.

Social Compliance: People are taught not to question authority, so fraudsters pretending to be a police officer or government official can have an upper hand. Ask for references, credentials and documentation supporting the claims to businesses and persons on the internet. Are they verified by any third party, and is there positive information about this person or business when searching Google?

The herd: Where’s the harm if everyone is doing it? The internet is being used by more than 1 billion people every day. Why would you be a victim if everyone tries online dating, social networking, job hunting, shopping and even paying bills on line? That would be really bad luck, wouldn’t it? The risk is real, and there are more and more victims every day. Yes, it can happen to you. Be safe and informed.

Dishonesty: Unbelievable as it might seem, fraudsters make you do things that you will regret later on, like open bank accounts with money they supposedly got from honest sources, or they may ask you to cash checks, may ask you for a loan, or to co-sign some documentation, etc. The scenarios are endless. The bottom line is that you should never sign or do anything, and never provide payment or personal data to anyone via the internet for any person or business who has not been verified. Even if you are surrounded by honest people in the off-line world, be skeptical online, and remember there are liars out there!

Need and Greed: Remember the Bible words about greed? Well, the advice is still valid today. Many victims rushed into a business deal, investment or relationship too greedy. They jumped at the opportunity without conducting some due diligence, background check or verification of the facts. They crossed their fingers and hoped for the best. They had to, because if they didn’t, they might have missed the opportunity. Well, this is a very common scenario among scam victims. Be safe and verify the facts, and then decide. For international investments, business deals, new contracts and new relationships, contact a professional international private investigator for assistance, and request a discreet background check or due diligence.

Experts and researchers agree it’s important to trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, back off and take some time to think things over. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

All the best,

S. Birch
© 2011 S. Birch

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