How Asset Tracing Works – A Step-by-Step Guide
October 1, 2023 - Reading time: 11 minutes
Updated on: September 4, 2025
Asset tracing is the process of identifying, tracking, and recovering assets that may have been hidden, moved, or misappropriated. At Private Investigators UK, our team is frequently instructed to trace assets in complex situations such as divorce, fraud investigations, bankruptcy cases, and debt recovery. This work often supports wider asset recovery strategies in the UK and internationally.
Whether someone is trying to hide money offshore or transfer property to avoid creditors, tracing these assets calls for a mix of financial analysis, investigative skill, and legal support. Here is how it works, step by step.
Step 1: Identifying the Assets
The first stage is to define the target. We build a picture of the subject’s financial footprint - bank accounts, business interests, property ownership, vehicles, luxury goods, investments, and cryptocurrency wallets.
We use public records and lawful sources such as Companies House, Land Registry, court filings, open source intelligence, and interviews. In corporate cases we also look for shell companies, nominee directors, and links to ultimate beneficial owners (UBOs). The aim is to map the assets, spot gaps, and flag red flags that point to hidden or transferred wealth.
Step 2: Securing the Assets
Once assets are identified, the priority is to secure value before it moves. Legal teams may seek a freezing injunction (also called a Mareva injunction) or a worldwide freezing order to stop dissipation. Timing matters - a short delay can give the subject room to shift funds or sell property.
Our role is to supply clear, court-ready evidence that supports these applications and to work with solicitors and counsel so orders are obtained and served correctly.
Step 3: Tracing Asset Movements
With the position stabilised, we follow the trail. Funds may pass through layers of companies, third parties, and accounts in other jurisdictions. We combine document review, data analysis, digital forensics, and manual cross checks to simplify the chain of ownership. The goal is a clear route to enforcement that stands up to scrutiny.
This stage often uncovers additional value - trusts, informal loans, or side agreements that disguise control.
Step 4: Recovery
Recovery depends on the assets and jurisdiction. Routes can include negotiated settlement, court enforcement, garnishee orders over bank funds, forced sale of property, charging orders over shares, or recognition and enforcement of a judgment abroad. Breach of a freezing order can lead to contempt of court, which is a serious matter.
Legal Tools and Orders Often Used
- Freezing injunctions and worldwide freezing orders (WFOs) to prevent dissipation.
- Norwich Pharmacal orders to compel third parties (such as banks or platforms) to disclose information that identifies wrongdoers or asset paths.
- Bankers Trust orders for confidential disclosure to trace and preserve misappropriated funds.
- Disclosure orders against companies, exchanges, and payment providers to obtain account data, KYC, or transaction records.
- Search and preservation orders where appropriate to secure records and devices.
These orders are applied for by solicitors through the courts. Our investigations provide the factual basis and evidence needed to support them.
Cryptoasset Tracing
We work on cryptocurrency tracing where funds have moved through exchanges or mixers. Blockchain analysis can link wallets to services and help tie activity to named users once platform data is disclosed. Recovery typically involves disclosure orders, freezing orders against known exchange accounts, and cooperation with platforms to restrict transfers.
International Asset Tracing
Hidden assets are often offshore. We coordinate with trusted contacts to access foreign records, interpret filings, and liaise with local lawyers so UK orders can be recognised or mirrored. Cross border enforcement of judgments is a specialist area and usually requires a local law firm; our role is to keep the evidence flow clear and complete.
When Is Asset Tracing Used?
- Divorce and family cases where one partner is suspected of concealing income or assets.
- Corporate disputes between owners or shareholders, including diversion of assets.
- Fraud investigations and embezzlement where funds have been misappropriated.
- Insolvency and bankruptcy where transfers were made before filing or to defeat creditors.
We also support solicitors in preparing applications for injunctions and disclosure orders.
Costs and Timelines
Time and cost vary with scope, jurisdictions, and how well the subject has hidden assets. A straightforward UK only matter can move quickly. Complex cross border cases with crypto, shell entities, and nominees take longer. Early scoping helps set a realistic plan and budget.
Need Help Tracing Assets?
If you are struggling to locate assets that you believe you are owed, get in touch with us. We can assess your case in confidence and advise on next steps - from early intelligence to full asset recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a freezing injunction and when is it used?
A freezing injunction stops a defendant from moving or selling assets before judgment. It is used where there is a real risk of dissipation. In wider cases courts may grant a worldwide freezing order.
How do Norwich Pharmacal and Bankers Trust orders help?
They are disclosure orders. The first compels an innocent third party to provide information that identifies wrongdoers or the asset trail. The second allows access to bank or platform records to trace and preserve misappropriated funds.
Can crypto be traced and recovered?
Often, yes. On chain analysis can locate wallets and link activity to exchanges. With disclosure orders and cooperation from platforms, funds can be frozen and claims brought.
Will a UK order work overseas?
Recognition depends on the country. Many cases need local lawyers to mirror or enforce the order. We coordinate evidence so recognition and enforcement can move faster.
How long does asset tracing take?
Anything from days to months. It depends on jurisdictions, cooperation from third parties, and how complex the structures are.
Is everything here legal advice?
No. This page is general information. Always speak to a solicitor for legal advice on your case.
How to Gather Proof of Cohabitation in the UK
September 24, 2023 - Reading time: 8 minutes
Updated on: September 4, 2025
Most people are open and honest about their living situations. Sometimes, though, the truth gets bent for personal or financial gain. Typical problem areas include unlawful subletting, tenancy fraud, or someone misrepresenting where they live to affect maintenance, benefits, or council support.
False claims can harm private landlords, small businesses, and local authorities. If you need proof of cohabitation in the UK, the key is lawful, clear evidence collected over time so a court or decision maker can rely on it.
Why Proof of Cohabitation is Necessary
People seek cohabitation evidence for different reasons. Common scenarios include:
- Landlords who suspect unlawful subletting or unauthorised occupants.
- Local authority or DWP investigators reviewing suspected Housing Benefit or Council Tax Support fraud.
- Ex-partners questioning living arrangements that could affect spousal maintenance or child maintenance.
- Solicitors who need cohabitation evidence for family court or divorce proceedings.
Misrepresentation of cohabitation is common in fraud cases. Government figures suggest benefit fraud costs taxpayers around £2 billion a year, and unlawful subletting of social housing is also treated as a criminal offence.
What Counts as Cohabitation?
Citizens Advice defines cohabitation as two people living together as a couple in a relationship equivalent to marriage. Cohabiting families in the UK have grown from 1.5 million in the mid-1990s to more than 3.3 million today, making it the fastest growing family type.
Not all cohabitation is fraudulent, but people may hide or misstate living arrangements to gain financially. Landlords also face cohabitation issues where tenants sublet without consent.
Requirements from the Courts
If you intend to rely on cohabitation evidence in court, you need credible proof. This usually means a detailed cohabitation report supported by photographic and video surveillance, ideally collected over two to three weeks. Courts prefer continuous monitoring rather than isolated snapshots.
Evidence Types
Useful evidence can include:
- Logs of activity in and out of a property
- Time-stamped photos and video footage showing occupants
- Consistent presence of personal vehicles
- Utility records, deliveries, or mail linking people to an address
Courts expect clarity. Smartphone images can be acceptable but high-resolution cameras and telephoto lenses provide stronger, more reliable evidence.
Records and Checks
Alongside surveillance, checks such as electoral roll searches, Land Registry entries, Companies House records, or OSINT research may support your claim. These help establish whether someone is genuinely living where they say they are.
Using a Private Investigator
Hiring a private investigator for cohabitation surveillance gives you:
- Access to professional cameras, telephoto lenses, and covert recording equipment
- Experience in gathering evidence lawfully and discreetly
- Insurance, ICO registration, and compliance with privacy rules
- Ability to prepare detailed reports accepted by solicitors and courts
Private investigators can save you time, provide impartial evidence, and raise the chance your case is taken seriously.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is proof of cohabitation?
Proof can include surveillance logs, photographs, video, and supporting records like utility bills or mail. The evidence should show consistent, ongoing residence.
How long should surveillance last?
Usually two to three weeks, to show an ongoing living arrangement rather than isolated visits.
Can proof of cohabitation be used in court?
Yes, if it is clear, continuous, and collected lawfully. Courts often rely on professional cohabitation reports from investigators.
Is unlawful subletting a crime?
Yes. In both social housing and private tenancies, unlawful subletting can amount to tenancy fraud and can be prosecuted.
How Moonlighting Affects Your Business & What You Can Do
September 17, 2023 - Reading time: 11 minutes
Updated on: September 4, 2025
In today’s economy, it’s increasingly common for employees to take on second jobs - weekend shifts, freelance gigs, or online side hustles. While moonlighting can help workers manage the cost of living, it can also create real risks for employers.
If a second job affects performance, creates a conflict of interest, or breaches your company policies, you need to address it carefully. This guide explains what moonlighting is, how to spot the warning signs, and practical steps you can take - including when to bring in a private investigator.
What Is Moonlighting?
Moonlighting means holding a second job outside someone’s main employment. It is not automatically unlawful, but it becomes a problem when any of the following apply:
- Performance in the primary job is slipping
- Company policies or contract terms are breached
- There is a conflict of interest - for example, working for a competitor or servicing your clients on the side
- Company time, data, or equipment are being misused for secondary work
Some employees manage extra work without issues. Problems arise when it is hidden, unmanaged, or begins to impact your business.
Common Signs an Employee Is Moonlighting
Moonlighting can be subtle. Typical red flags include:
- Frequent lateness, early finishes, or unexplained absences
- Unusual fatigue, low focus, falling productivity, or missed deadlines
- Excessive sick leave or short-notice time off requests around the same days
- Using company devices or networks for non-work activity
- Other staff raising concerns about unfair workloads
These patterns do not prove moonlighting on their own - personal issues or burnout may also be in play. Treat them as prompts to look closer.
What’s the Impact on Your Business?
- Lower performance - tired or distracted staff rarely meet expectations
- Team morale - resentment builds if others pick up the slack
- Conflicts of interest - side work for competitors or your clients undercuts your business
- Data and confidentiality risks - information can leak, even accidentally
- Health and safety - fatigue can raise accident risk and breach working time limits
Left alone, these issues can harm customer experience, increase turnover, and damage your reputation.
Set a Clear Moonlighting Policy
A clear, written policy helps you manage secondary employment fairly. Useful points to include:
- Disclosure - staff must tell you about any second job or freelance work
- Approval - set a simple request-and-approval process with reasonable criteria
- Working time - remind staff to stay within legal hours and take proper rest
- Conflicts of interest - define competing work and client poaching
- Confidentiality and data - ban using your data, kit, or brand for side jobs
- Use of company time - no secondary work during contracted hours
- Consequences - link breaches to your disciplinary procedure
Share the policy, obtain acknowledgement, and apply it consistently to avoid claims of unfair treatment.
How to Investigate Fairly
If you suspect moonlighting, follow a fair and proportionate process:
- Document concerns - dates, times, missed deadlines, team feedback
- Secure data properly - preserve timesheets, network logs, rota info, and relevant emails
- Invite the employee to an initial meeting - outline concerns and hear their explanation
- Check conflicts - look for links to competitors or your clients
- Assess risk - performance, confidentiality, and health and safety
- Decide on next steps - improvement plan, formal investigation, or no action
If you need external fact-finding, consider discreet help rather than confronting without evidence.
Why and When to Use a Private Investigator
Confronting an employee without evidence is risky. A discreet investigation can confirm facts while protecting the working relationship. At Private Investigators UK we support HR and legal teams with:
- Covert surveillance to verify working patterns
- Social media and online activity review
- Employment and income verification checks
- Background checks and discreet enquiries
Our goal is to provide clear, tribunal-ready evidence so you can act confidently. If nothing is found, the matter stays confidential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is moonlighting illegal in the UK?
Not by itself. Issues arise if it breaches contract terms, company policy, working time limits, or confidentiality duties, or if it creates a conflict of interest.
Can we ban second jobs completely?
You can set rules and require disclosure and approval. A blanket ban may be hard to justify. Clear criteria and a fair approval process are safer.
Can we dismiss someone for moonlighting?
Potentially, if there is serious misconduct such as dishonesty, conflict of interest, or misuse of company time or data. Follow a fair process and take advice before disciplinary action.
Do we need consent to check social media?
Public posts can be reviewed. For workplace devices or personal data, follow your policies and data protection rules and be proportionate.
When should we use a private investigator?
When you need discreet, lawful fact finding to verify patterns, confirm conflicts, or gather evidence without escalating tensions.
Take Action Without Taking Risks
Moonlighting is not always a problem, but if it affects performance, creates a conflict, or breaches trust, it is worth addressing. Do not let suspicion linger or jump to conclusions without facts.
To speak in confidence and get a free, no obligation quote, visit our contact page. We will help you assess the situation and plan next steps with discretion and professionalism.
7 Signs Your House Is Bugged – Covert Surveillance Explained
September 16, 2023 - Reading time: 16 minutes
Updated on: September 3, 2025
Hidden cameras and microphones are easier than ever to conceal. If you feel someone could be monitoring you at home, you might be right. Consumer tech is cheap and powerful, and professional kits are hard to spot. Below are the key signs to look for, safe checks you can do, and when to bring in a professional bug sweep.
Quick Navigation
- 1. Physical tampering or entry
- 2. Odd device behaviour
- 3. Radio, TV, or monitor interference
- 4. Pets acting strangely
- 5. People know private details
- 6. Nearby surveillance activity
- 7. Evidence of intrusion indoors
- What do hidden microphones look like?
- DIY checks vs professional sweep
- Legal notes in the UK
- What to do if concerned
- Book a professional bug sweep
- FAQs
- Related articles
1. Physical Tampering or Evidence of Entry
- Locks or doors disturbed — scratches round cylinders, tighter or looser closing, doors left ajar.
- Outlets or fittings altered — loose faceplates, moved furniture, ceiling tiles out of line.
- Random new objects — air fresheners, USB chargers, plug-in sensors, fake smoke alarms, ornaments that appeared without explanation.
2. Unusual Device Behaviour
- Phones heating up or draining when idle, unexplained background noise on calls.
- Wi-Fi or signal black spots in the same area of the house, especially near sockets or vents.
- Lights flicker or breakers trip after a “new” device appeared.
3. Radio, TV, or Baby Monitor Interference
Clicking, buzzing, or bursty static near walls or sockets can indicate a transmitter. Analogue baby monitors sometimes pick up overlapping audio from cheap wireless bugs or IP cameras on 2.4 GHz.
4. Pets Acting Strangely
Dogs or cats fixating on one corner, or avoiding a room entirely, can hint at ultrasonic noise or RF emissions the human ear misses. Treat this as a signal to search, not proof on its own.
5. People Know Things They Shouldn’t
If private conversations or plans leak repeatedly, assume your environment might be compromised. Capture dates and details in a log so patterns emerge during a sweep.
6. Frequent Nearby Surveillance Activity
- Unfamiliar vehicles lingering with line of sight to your property.
- Unsolicited “service” visits, meter checks, or tradespeople without an appointment.
7. Evidence of Intrusion or Misplaced Items
Open drawers, moved documents, or small items out of position can indicate a covert entry to plant or service a device. Photograph what you find before moving it.
What Do Hidden Microphones Look Like?
Most covert mics are small black modules with a pin-hole mic and battery, often paired with a cheap Wi-Fi or GSM board to transmit audio. You rarely see the mic itself — it is inside something else:
- Everyday housings — USB chargers, multi-plugs, smoke alarms, speakers, clock radios, PIR sensors, air fresheners, power banks, extension leads.
- Custom placements — behind skirting, inside light fittings, under desks, within picture frames or plant pots.
- Vehicle bugs — under seats, in dashboards, or powered from OBD ports. GPS trackers are often magnet-mounted under a car chassis.
Well-placed devices are not visible without disassembly. Professional implants may be hard-wired to power and tucked within voids, so consumer bug detectors won’t always find them.
DIY Checks vs Professional Bug Sweep
DIY checks you can try safely:
- Lens scan in the dark with a torch held at eye level. Look for pinpoint reflections on shelves, vents, and ornaments.
- Router and network audit — log in to your router, rename the Wi-Fi, change passwords, and review connected devices for unknown names. Power-cycle all smart devices and the router.
- Socket and object audit — list anything “new”. Unplug and weigh plug-in objects that feel unusually heavy for their size.
- Phone and laptop hygiene — update OS, remove unknown apps or profiles, revoke risky permissions.
- Unknown tracker alerts — on iOS and Android, enable alerts for unknown Bluetooth trackers that move with you.
Limits of DIY: cheap RF detectors struggle with modern frequency-hopping or dormant devices. Hard-wired mics without active transmission will not show on a basic sweep. That is where a professional TSCM sweep is recommended.
Legal Notes in the UK
- Recording in your own home is generally lawful for personal reasons, but misuse of recordings can breach harassment, communications, or privacy laws.
- Landlords cannot place devices in rented properties for monitoring tenants.
- Tampering with suspected devices could damage evidence. Photograph and log first, then seek advice.
For complex cases or safety concerns, consider reporting to police. Otherwise, engage a professional team to preserve evidence correctly.
Concerned? Here’s What To Do
- Do not discuss suspicions at home. Step outside or use a device away from the property.
- Keep a log of dates, times, and odd events. Photograph anything out of place.
- Avoid ripping things apart — you could alert the person or destroy useful evidence.
- Arrange a professional sweep for your home, office, and vehicles if needed.
Book a Professional Bug Sweep with PI-UK
Private Investigators UK conducts TSCM bug sweeps nationwide. Our team uses near-field receivers, spectrum analysis, lens detection, and physical inspection to locate hidden microphones, cameras, and trackers in homes, offices, and vehicles.
We work discreetly and preserve evidence correctly. Unsure but concerned? Get a free, no-obligation quote. Or learn more about our bug sweep service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my house is bugged in the UK?
Look for a pattern: disturbed fittings, odd Wi-Fi devices, interference, and private details leaking. Do simple checks, then book a professional sweep for confirmation.
Are cheap bug detectors worth it?
They can find basic transmitters but often miss dormant, wired, or frequency-hopping devices. Treat them as a first pass, not a clean bill of health.
How much does a bug sweep cost in the UK?
Costs vary by size and complexity. Flats can be a few hundred pounds, large homes or multi-site sweeps more. Ask for a free quote with property size and location.
Can my landlord put cameras or mics in my rental?
No. Landlords cannot monitor tenants inside a rented property. If you have evidence, seek legal advice or speak to police.
What about my car?
Trackers and mics can be hidden in vehicles. Ask for a combined home and vehicle sweep if you suspect stalking or corporate espionage.
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