Social media is used by millions of people around the world to display countless intimate details and opinions about their lives. This information is often shared publicly and can be found on dozens of different websites, including popular social networks like Facebook and Twitter as well as blogging platforms, search engines, and other apps and services.
In many cases, individuals may not be mindful about what they are sharing online or how the content they post can be used by others. This is why it is important for corporations to conduct social media investigation done by a certified investigator in order to protect their business. These investigations can reveal a lot of valuable information about a person, such as their background and history, and can help prevent issues or liability down the road.
A Social media investigation is an in-depth inquiry conducted by a professional investigator who will review a person’s public information and activity on social networks, search engines, and other internet applications for relevant information. The goal is to gather evidence that can be used for legal purposes. These investigations can be conducted for a number of reasons, such as to verify employment references or background information, as part of the hiring process, or in preparation for litigation.
These investigations can be done in a variety of ways, but the most effective method is to use an experienced private investigator who understands how social media works. Investigators will be able to quickly identify the most useful information and collect it in a way that is legally admissible in court. Investigators will also use a variety of tools and techniques to ensure that the most relevant information is obtained.
In addition, these investigations can be used to establish a factual basis for certain claims, disqualify a witness, or support an alibi. For example, a photo of someone participating in an activity can disprove a person’s claim that they could not have participated because of an injury. In other cases, a photo from a concert can disprove a person’s story that they were at work the night of an incident.
During a social media investigation, it is essential to note that only publicly available information will be collected. Investigators must be careful not to “friend” or otherwise interact with subjects on social media as doing so can violate privacy rights and could compromise an investigation or a lawsuit matter.
Additionally, it is critical to use only the most trusted and respected private investigators for these types of investigations. This will ensure that the information and data gathered is accurate and will hold up in court. Investigators should be certified by a recognized organization that recognizes their investigative knowledge and expertise. To earn certification, investigators must demonstrate their experience through case studies and must pass a rigorous exam. This certification ensures that the investigator is qualified to investigate a wide variety of legal matters. If you need a social media investigation, contact us to learn more about our services or to request an assessment.