What do Background Checks in the UK Include?

March 16, 2022 - Reading time: 10 minutes
Updated on: September 4, 2025

What do background checks actually include?

Background checks come in various forms. In general, when you request a background check in the UK, it may include the following:

• Verification of the subject’s personal details: This may include their full name, address, contact details, date of birth, marriage or death verification, national insurance number (if known), passport information (if known), and driving licence details (where provided). These checks help confirm that the person is who they claim to be.
• Criminal history research: While it is not possible to obtain someone’s official criminal record without their consent, we may be able to identify relevant history through open-source intelligence (OSINT). This can include researching court appearances, media reports, and legal listings to flag any past involvement in criminal or civil proceedings.
• Financial background checks: Bankruptcy and insolvency records, credit checks (where legally permitted), County Court Judgments (CCJs), and debt-related information. This helps assess whether the subject is in financial distress or appears financially stable.

Enhanced background checks

Enhanced background checks include everything in the standard checks, plus the following:

• Social media and digital footprint check: Identification of online profiles and activity linked to the subject, including any concerning posts or connections.
• International sanctions and watch list checks: Identification of any listings under international law enforcement, banking, or governmental bodies.
• Business interests and directorship search: Are they involved in any UK or international businesses? We check Companies House and other business registers.
• Reputation and negative publicity: Searching news archives and online platforms for press coverage or public allegations involving the subject.
• Address history trace: Compilation of previously linked addresses and cohabitants where available, helping to establish residency patterns.

If you would like a free quote for a background check, then please get in touch with us and let us know which exact checks you would like us to perform.

Why do people run background checks?

There are many reasons someone might want to run a background check on another individual. Whether it’s for personal safety, family reassurance, or business due diligence, background screening can play a key role in decision-making. In today’s world, it's simply wise to take precautions before allowing someone new into your life or organisation.

A background check can raise red flags that might not be visible on the surface. Or, it can offer confirmation that everything is as it should be. Either way, it provides valuable peace of mind.

Employment background screening

More and more UK employers are now using pre-employment checks to avoid costly mistakes. Employment background screening helps reduce the risk of hiring someone with a problematic history, and it also protects your company’s reputation.

Typically, this includes identity verification, previous employment checks, and criminal history research where permitted. Many companies also request social media checks and online reputation reviews to assess a candidate’s character and past conduct.

Personal background screening

If you’re concerned about someone new in your personal life, whether it’s a partner, friend, or your child’s new step-parent, a personal background check can offer vital reassurance. These are often used to check a partner’s past or investigate someone close to a loved one.

We are frequently asked to perform checks on individuals entering a client’s family circle — such as a daughter’s new boyfriend or a parent’s new partner. If you’re wondering how to check someone’s background in the UK discreetly, this service is for you.

Whether you’re acting on suspicion or just instinct, running a background check is often a responsible and proactive step. It can help safeguard those you care about.

Why choose PrivateInvestigators-UK for your background checks?

At PrivateInvestigators-UK, we provide a tailored and discreet background check service across the UK. We pride ourselves on close personal communication with every client. We listen to your specific needs and recommend the most effective, legal and affordable solution.

Please visit our homepage for more about us, or feel free to get in touch for a free background check quote today.

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Why Private Investigators use Drones in the UK

March 6, 2022 - Reading time: 9 minutes
Updated on: September 5, 2025

As private investigators, we are always on the lookout for technology that makes our work more efficient, accurate, and cost-effective. From covert cameras and GPS tracking devices to advanced OSINT tools, investigators rely on equipment to get results for clients. One of the most powerful additions in recent years has been the drone. Once a novelty, drones are now a core part of the investigator’s toolkit in the UK.

Why private investigators use drones

Drones give investigators an extra set of eyes in the sky. They are not a replacement for traditional surveillance, but they can open up opportunities that would otherwise be difficult, costly, or even impossible. Below are the most common uses:

1. Surveillance cases

Drones can provide discreet aerial views of properties, industrial estates, or rural locations. This allows us to identify entrances, exits, vehicle movements, and patterns of activity. For example, in a suspected infidelity case, a drone may capture vehicles parked at unusual times outside a particular property, strengthening the ground investigator’s report.

2. Search and rescue / missing persons

When people go missing, every second counts. Drones equipped with zoom cameras or thermal imaging can cover fields, forests, and waterways far faster than search teams on foot. They can highlight heat signatures at night, or locate vehicles in remote areas, giving families and police vital leads.

3. Scene inspections

Insurance and accident investigations often require a clear overview of the scene. Whether it’s a collapsed roof, a road collision, or a flood-damaged property, drones can capture the scale of the event in a way no ground photo can. This visual context often makes a significant difference in court or during settlement negotiations.

4. Trespassing and land disputes

Drones are ideal for rural surveillance, particularly where landowners suffer repeated trespass or vandalism. By monitoring from above, investigators can capture clear video of intruders and link them to specific dates and times, which is essential for legal action.

5. Security and deterrence

While drones are usually used covertly, there are times when their presence is deliberately made obvious. For example, during event security or counter-surveillance, a visible drone hovering nearby can act as a deterrent to anyone planning trouble.

6. Fly-tipping investigations

Fly tipping costs landowners and councils millions every year. Offenders often dump waste in remote areas at night, making them hard to catch. A drone can monitor hotspots from a distance without alerting offenders, capturing vital evidence of vehicles and suspects in the act.

7. Theft and rural crime

From farm equipment to scrap metal, rural theft is a growing problem. Aerial surveillance helps investigators cover large sites quickly and discreetly, capturing video evidence that might be missed by static cameras or ground patrols.

Disadvantages of drones

Drones are a fantastic tool, but they are not perfect. Two key issues remain:

• Noise: Drones are not completely silent. While technology is improving, an inexperienced operator can easily give away their presence.
• Battery life: Most drones fly for only 20–40 minutes before needing a recharge. Investigators must carefully plan flights or carry multiple batteries to ensure continuous coverage.

Are drones legal for investigators?

Yes, but only when used correctly. All drone use must comply with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) rules and data protection law. Investigators must operate safely, avoid restricted airspace, and ensure that surveillance respects privacy rights.

Can drone footage be used in court?

Yes, provided it was collected legally. Drone evidence has been used successfully in both civil and criminal cases. The court will consider whether the footage was proportionate, lawfully obtained, and relevant to the case. If those conditions are met, it can be extremely persuasive evidence.

Do investigators need a drone licence?

Yes. Commercial operators in the UK require certification from the CAA. This ensures that drones are flown safely, with appropriate insurance and compliance with the law. Hiring an unlicensed operator not only risks unusable evidence but could also expose you to liability.

How much does drone surveillance cost?

Costs vary depending on location, duration, and complexity. Rural operations are usually less complicated than urban environments where permissions and airspace restrictions apply. Expect drone work to cost more than simple ground surveillance, but the aerial perspective often saves time and money overall by securing decisive evidence more quickly.

Drones vs. traditional surveillance

Drones are a powerful supplement, but they cannot replace investigators on the ground. For example, a drone may capture a vehicle arriving, but only an investigator nearby can confirm who stepped out of it. The best results come when drones and ground teams work together.

Risks of unlicensed drone use

Be wary of anyone offering drone services without CAA certification. Evidence collected illegally may be thrown out in court, and unlicensed operators can face heavy fines. Always ask your investigator to confirm their qualifications and insurance before instructing them.

Hire a private investigator with a drone

If you require aerial footage or surveillance, we can help. Our certified drone operators work across the UK, using drones alongside traditional methods to deliver clear and legally compliant evidence. Get in touch today for a free, confidential consultation or visit our homepage to learn more about our services.

Drone surveillance FAQs

Can private investigators fly drones at night?

Yes, but it requires additional certification and experience. Night operations are more complex and must be planned carefully to remain safe and discreet.

Do drones have thermal cameras?

Some of our drones are equipped with thermal imaging, which is particularly useful in missing persons searches or detecting hidden activity at night.

Can I hire just a drone operator without a full investigation?

Yes. We offer drone-only services if you simply need aerial photography or footage, though in most cases it’s best combined with broader investigative work.

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GPS tracker FAQ: Is it legal to fit GPS trackers in the UK?

February 7, 2022 - Reading time: 14 minutes
Updated on: September 5, 2025

As a leading detective agency based in the UK, we use GPS tracking devices on a daily basis. Trackers are small, discreet, and can be fitted to most vehicles with ease.

It usually takes a matter of seconds to conceal a tracker onto a vehicle. Whether the tracker is placed in the front/rear bumper or underneath the vehicle, once secured in place we are able to track its exact position 24 hours per day. We can learn exactly where the vehicle is being driven, how fast it is driven, where it is parked and how long it is parked for.

It’s easy to understand how trackers could be useful to private investigators, but is it legal to use tracking devices in the UK? When can they be used? We will endeavour to answer these questions in this article.

Before we get started however, it is worth mentioning that this article touches on complicated legal matters, and if you feel that you could benefit from legal advice then we would recommend speaking to a qualified solicitor. The contents of this article certainly does not constitute legal advice.

Is it legal to fit a GPS tracker on a car in the UK?

It is not illegal to fit trackers to cars in the UK, however, much depends on the circumstances and your intentions. We have described some of the more common scenarios where trackers might be used below.

As you can tell, much depends on the circumstances in each case, and often how the law is interpreted. In general, the following rules must always be observed when it comes to using GPS tracking devices in the UK:

• There should not be any legal reason that prevents you from contacting the vehicle’s owner, or any potential drivers/passengers of the vehicle
• Force should not be used in order to access the vehicle
• The vehicle should not be damaged in any way as the result of a tracker’s installation or removal
• Data gathered by trackers must be stored and used responsibly, and in accordance with the relevant legislation
• Always use a professional investigator to lead your investigation and install the tracking device for you

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Is it legal to buy a GPS tracker in the UK?

Yes, tracking devices are perfectly legal to buy, sell, and own in the UK. It is when you use the tracker to monitor other people without their consent that the legality of your activities may come into question.

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Can private investigators fit trackers in the UK?

Yes, private investigators fit tracking devices to vehicles across the UK on a daily basis.

What a private investigator may not do is ‘trespass onto private land’ in order to fit a tracker onto a vehicle.

Trespassing occurs when a person enters another’s property without their permission or consent. However, if a driveway is open and accessible to any member of the public, then it would be difficult to describe accessing the land as trespass.

In a 2007 report which has since been widely cited by private investigators, the OSC’s Chief Surveillance Commissioner, Sir Christopher Rose, stated that “putting an arm into a wheel arch or under the frame of a vehicle is straining the concept of trespass” [source].

In general, vehicles which are parked on public land, or on publicly accessible land, are considered to be ‘fair game’ for private investigators.

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How accurate are GPS trackers?

GPS trackers are usually accurate within a range of around 5 meters. Whilst trackers are generally quite accurate, there are variables which can affect the accuracy of GPS devices... Obstacles such as trees and tall buildings, for example, may prevent signals from GPS satellites from reaching the tracker, which can affect accuracy in some cases.

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How reliable are GPS trackers?

GPS trackers can be purchased for just a few pounds, going up to one thousand pounds or even more for professional grade equipment. As with most gadgets, you are likely to receive a higher quality product depending on how much money you decide to spend. Cheaper devices are more likely to stop working during an investigation or to break – which is why we do not use them or recommend them.

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How much do you charge to fit GPS trackers?

Private investigators typically charge a fee for both installation and removal of trackers. If a tracker is being used for a prolonged period and the battery starts to run low, then you may decide for an investigator to remove the tracker and install another battery (or recharge the battery), and then reinstall it.

Fees for these services can vary from case to case and depending on the location of the assignment. Please get in touch with us for a free quote, remember to include your post code and any relevant details - we will do our best to understand your requirements and provide a no obligation quote.

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Can you install a GPS tracker for me without providing a surveillance team?

The short answer is yes. We typically install trackers as part of our surveillance service, so that we can understand the subject's behaviour and conduct surveillance at times/locations that we are most likely to gather the best evidence in the form of photos/video.

If our client does not wish for us to conduct surveillance however, then we can just provide the service of GPS tracker installation/removal instead.

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How can I find a tracker on my car?

In order to find a tracker attached to your vehicle you will need to crawl underneath it and carefully look for any suspicious devices.

Trackers are usually equipped with strong magnets and attach to metal components underneath the vehicle, such as the frame or to a bash plate. Certain models of vehicle have unique ‘hiding spots’ where a tracker can be easily hidden. The best place to hide a tracker will depend on which vehicle it is being installed on.

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How long do GPS tracker batteries last?

In general tracker batteries can last for around 1-2 weeks, however there are many variables involved such as how often the tracker updates its location, the size of the tracker itself (and therefore its battery capacity). If the weather is particularly cold for example, then this may also reduce the amount of time before the tracker needs to be removed and recharged.

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How do GPS trackers work?

GPS stands for ‘Global Positioning System’. The technology relies on 30+ active satellites which are constantly orbiting the earth. Trackers use data from these satellites (usually at least four or more satellites at a time) in order to determine their current location, effectively using the same technology as the GPS satellite navigation in your car.

Once the tracker has determined its current position (and speed, if it is moving), it will upload that data to the cloud using a mobile network.

Once the tracker’s location data has been uploaded to the cloud, users with the correct username/password will be able to login to the control panel and access data such as the tracker’s current position and any other locations it has recently visited, as well as the date/time that the tracker visited those location.

As private investigators, we can look at data which is collected by GPS trackers in order to determine patterns of behaviour and plan surveillance accordingly.

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How are GPS trackers positioned on vehicles?

If you are tasked with installing a GPS tracker on a vehicle, then you must first have at least a basic understanding of how the technology works.

Trackers rely on receiving data from satellites… If a tracker is placed underneath a car for example, then the signal being transmitted to it will likely be blocked by the metal body of the car.

In order to receive data, the signal which is received by trackers will effectively bounce off the ground and make its way underneath the vehicle where the tracker is located. As such, the tracker’s antennae should always be pointing down towards the ground.

If a tracker is equipped with magnets, then you can assume that the antennae will be pointing in the opposite direction towards the ground. It’s important to ensure that the tracker is always positioned correctly and not upside down. If the tracker’s antenna is positioned badly then it may struggle to send or receive data.

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PI-UK tracker deployment service

Please see the Private Investigators UK homepage for more information about us, or feel free to get in touch with us in order to request a quote for GPS tracker installation - please remember to include the exact location of the case (post code) and any details relevant to your case.

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6 Signs That You Are Being Stalked

January 31, 2022 - Reading time: 13 minutes
Updated on: September 5, 2025

Whatever the situation or circumstances, stalking is a behaviour that should always be taken seriously. Whether you are being stalked by a former partner, friend, neighbour, colleague, or someone you do not know, the fear and anxiety can be significant and long lasting.

Stalking often sits alongside other criminal acts such as harassment, threats, assault and criminal damage. If you feel someone could be stalking you, it is wise to safeguard yourself early and start recording what is happening.

Emergency note: if you are in immediate danger, call 999. For non-emergencies, contact 101 or speak to your local police station.

1. Lurking and loitering

Trust your instincts. If the same person or vehicle is hanging around the same places, or you notice them at odd times without a clear reason, treat that as a red flag. Make a note of dates, times, descriptions, registration plates and any small details that stand out. Patterns matter.

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2. Cyber stalking

Online harassment can show up on social media, messaging apps, dating sites, forums and email. It might be repeated contact, monitoring your posts, creating fake profiles, scraping personal data, or trying to guess passwords and security answers. Some offenders try to gather location data from photos or check-ins. Others try to learn your routine and the places you visit.

Fitness apps and smart devices can also reveal routes and timings. Review what you share publicly and lock down your privacy settings. Be careful with friend requests and private groups.

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3. Coincidental meets

Repeatedly bumping into the same person in different places can be innocent, but if it keeps happening, change your routine. Vary your route and timings. If the same person still appears, record each encounter. This can indicate surveillance or hostile reconnaissance rather than chance.

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4. Malicious phone calls and messages

Blocked numbers, hang-ups, repeated calls, silent voicemails and sudden spikes in spam or sales calls can all be used to unsettle you. Keep a log, save voicemails and screenshots, and report abusive numbers to your network. Consider a new number and do not publish it widely. Apps and some landline devices can block or filter unwanted calls.

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5. The same car follows you for a prolonged time

If a vehicle sticks behind you for longer than makes sense, note the make, model, colour and registration. Three lefts or three rights in a row is an old trick to test if you are being tailed. Do not drive dangerously. If you are worried, head for a police station, a petrol station with CCTV, or a busy well-lit place and call 999 from your hands-free.

It can be useful to act as though you have not noticed. If someone knows they have been spotted, they may change tactics, vehicles or methods. Either way, record everything as soon as you can do so safely.

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6. A tracking device on your vehicle

Trackers are small and easy to hide under bumpers, on subframes or inside trim. If one is fitted, your movements can be monitored 24 hours a day. If you suspect a tracker, consider a professional vehicle sweep. Some consumer bug detectors pick up radio frequency signals, but they do not always catch modern devices that buffer and burst data. We can help with vehicle and property bug sweeps.

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What to do if you think you are being stalked

• Tell someone you trust and agree a code word that means you need help.
• Strengthen home and workplace security such as locks, lighting, cameras and secure parking where possible.
• Vary your routine and avoid predictable routes and timings.
• Do not engage with the offender online or in person. Save everything instead.
• Report to police with your log and evidence. Ask for a crime reference number.
• Speak to your phone provider about call blocking and number changes.
• Let your workplace or school know so reception and security are alert.

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How to document evidence

Good evidence turns a worry into a case that can be acted on. Keep a simple log with:

• Date and time
• Location and what happened
• Descriptions, registration plates and screenshots
• Names of any witnesses and incident numbers if reported

Save original files in more than one place. Do not edit or mark the photos you want to rely on. Keep messages in full with headers and URLs where relevant. If you receive gifts, notes or items through the post, keep the envelopes and avoid handling them more than needed.

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Online safety and digital hygiene

• Privacy settings on social platforms set to friends only. Remove location tags and live check-ins.
• Review followers and remove unknown or suspicious accounts. Be careful with mutuals.
• Strong, unique passwords with a password manager and two-factor authentication on key accounts.
• Check email forwarding rules and account recovery numbers and emails.
• Device security with screen locks, OS updates and reputable security apps.
• Home network router password changed from default and firmware updated.
• Dating apps kept separate from your main social profiles and avoid linking Instagram or Spotify if you want to stay private.

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Stalking and harassment law in the UK

Stalking and harassment are criminal offences. The courts look for a course of conduct which means behaviour on at least two occasions that causes alarm or distress. There are separate offences for stalking, and there are civil and criminal orders that can restrict a person’s behaviour.

• Protection from Harassment Act 1997 covers harassment and includes restraining orders.
• Stalking offences include additional behaviours such as following, watching, monitoring or contacting a person repeatedly in a way that causes fear or distress.
• Stalking Protection Orders can impose conditions such as not to contact or not to go within a set distance of places.

This section is general guidance, not legal advice. If you need advice on injunctions, restraining orders or safeguarding children, speak to a solicitor.

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How a private investigator can help

We support victims of stalking with discreet, lawful methods that create a clear evidential picture.

• Counter-surveillance to detect and document who is following you, when and how.
• Surveillance logs, photos and video gathered to evidential standards.
• Vehicle sweeps and technical inspections to locate GPS trackers, hidden cameras and covert microphones.
• OSINT investigations to identify linked social media, usernames, email addresses and other digital footprints.
• Liaison with solicitors to support applications for injunctions or court orders, where appropriate.

Every instruction is risk assessed. Where devices are found, we can remove them, preserve evidence and report our findings in a format suitable for police or court use.

For confidential help, visit the PrivateInvestigators-UK homepage or contact us.

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FAQs

Do private investigators stalk people?

No. Reputable investigators vet clients and refuse instructions that look like harassment. If an investigator is following you as part of a lawful enquiry, a competent professional aims to remain discreet and gather impartial evidence. If you believe you are under surveillance, see How to tell if a private investigator is following you.

Should I confront the person I suspect?

Usually no. Confrontations can escalate risk and may harm your ability to evidence a course of conduct. Focus on safety and evidence. Report concerns to police and seek advice.

Can you prove who is behind anonymous accounts?

Sometimes. OSINT can link usernames, photos, writing style, recovery emails or phone numbers. Where legal powers are required, your solicitor or the police may request data from platforms.

Can you remove GPS trackers or hidden cameras?

Yes. We provide bug sweeping and technical counter-surveillance for vehicles, homes and workplaces. If we find devices, we can remove them and document everything properly.

What if the stalker is an ex-partner?

The same principles apply. Keep evidence, improve security, tell trusted people, and report early. Orders are available to protect victims of domestic abuse and stalking. Speak to a solicitor for tailored guidance.

Related articles

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