Private investigators are often hired by individuals, attorneys and businesses for a variety of reasons. These include background checks, surveillance, and investigations for insurance purposes.

Many private investigators today use social media platforms to track down information about people and locations. They are also able to assist in identifying hacked accounts and stolen technology.
Location

The location of a private investigator isn’t a given, but it is possible to find one close to home. There are several notable private investigators in the Greater Boston area to be found. The top tier of the pack boasts some of the best detectives in the state, and it is not hard to see why. This is the perfect time to enlist a seasoned veteran of the dark arts to handle your most sensitive of cases. A few tips and tricks will help ensure your success. This is especially true if you’re a novice or newbie to the law enforcement game.
License

Getting a license is a requirement for most private investigators. They often work for citizens, attorneys and insurance companies to find information on legal, financial and personal matters.

Licensing requirements vary by state, so check with your local licensing authority to see if you meet the criteria. Education, experience and examinations may also be required.

In North Carolina, the State Licensing Division of the Department of Public Safety handles Private investigator near me licensing. Visit their website for application forms and more details.

The state’s PI license law requires three years of experience. This experience can be obtained through employment in private investigations, as a sworn law enforcement officer or in another position that provides the knowledge and skills to conduct professional PI business.

In addition to the education and experience requirements, PIs must pass an exam and obtain a $10,000 surety bond. They must also undergo a mental health check and provide proof of insurance.
Experience

Private investigators work with individuals, businesses and law firms to gather information. Their responsibilities include finding missing people, investigating theft and fraud, and gathering evidence that is admissible in court.

They also work with clients to conduct background checks, verify reported facts and check a person’s legal status. This can involve checking social media networks, researching a person’s contacts and conducting interviews with witnesses.

In addition, investigators may perform surveillance. This involves following a subject, taking notes and collecting evidence by photographing or videotaping them.

Experience and education are key qualifications for becoming a private investigator. Many employers prefer applicants with previous police or military service, while others require a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field.
Reputation

Whether you’re looking to hire a private investigator for yourself or your business, it pays to do your research before jumping in the deep end. Not only does the right choice make a significant difference in the quality of results, but it can also save you from the embarrassment of a bad experience.

The best place to start is by asking for recommendations from friends and family, especially if you have an investigative need on your hands. For example, if your company has been the victim of fake online reviews or some other type of digital snafu, you’ll want to seek the help of a qualified private investigator who can track down the source of the problem before it costs your bottom line. A good detective will be able to find the root cause of a shady review, averting the calamity and restoring your reputation in the process. This is particularly important if you have sensitive data at stake.