The Information Commissioners Office (ICO) recently released a statement regarding private investigation method that have been described as ‘rogue’. These are unlawful practices carried out by private investigators that aren’t complying with the Data Protection act. They’re typically obtaining data by hacking, or storing it in an unsafe way.
The ICO said that some private investigators weren’t ‘following the rules’ and were selling personal information, hacking into computers to obtain their data, failing to register their businesses with the correct authorities, and incorrectly storing collected surveillance records.
What does this mean for people that hire private investigators?
The Information Commissioners Office will be making unscheduled visits to private investigators that are considered to be a concern. This should help to reduce the risk of working with a rogue PI.
If you’re considering hiring private investigators in Preston, other parts of the North West or anywhere else in the UK, then you can also take steps to protect yourself. Remember that unlawfully collected evidence isn’t just putting you at risk – it’s also going to be useless as actual evidence, in court or elsewhere.
1) Check that your chosen private investigator is Data Protection Registered. EJM Investigations is registered under the number ZA025673.
2) Ask a private investigator’s view on intrusive surveillance. Public surveillance, if handled properly, is entirely legal. Intrusive surveillance is a very grey area, and the best private investigators won’t make a habit of surveillance on private property.
3) Look for signs that your private investigator is permanent. Accepting payments to a UK bank account, rather than cash in hand, is a good sign. You may also want to look for signs of a fixed UK address.
4) Without behaving unlawfully or falsifying data, a private investigator can’t guarantee success. Be wary of any PI that says that they can definitely get what you’re asking for.
If you’re looking for a trustworthy private investigator working within the confines of the law in areas such as Bury and more, EJM Investigations may be able to take you on as a client. You can call us on 01772 334 700, to speak to us in our Preston office.