Can Private Investigators Hack Phones or Social Media?

May 29, 2023 - Reading time: 5 minutes
Updated on: April 6, 2025

As leading private investigators in the UK, we’re regularly contacted by clients asking whether we can help them access someone’s private communications — such as messages, call logs, or social media activity — usually to confirm suspicions of infidelity. Understandably, people want the truth. But does that mean investigators can hack into a phone or messenger app to get it?

Can a Private Investigator Hack a Phone or Account?

No — private investigators cannot legally hack phones, social media accounts, emails, or messenger apps. Doing so without the user’s consent is a criminal offence in the UK and many other jurisdictions.

Please do not contact us requesting any type of phone or social media hacking service — we do not offer or support anything illegal.

Why You Should Avoid So-Called ‘Phone Hacking Services’

We’ve been approached by numerous people who were scammed after paying individuals online who claimed to be “ethical hackers” or “private investigators” that could hack a partner’s phone, Instagram, or WhatsApp. In every case, these services were fraudulent — they either did nothing, disappeared with the money, or kept asking for more.

Any website or person offering mobile hacking, Instagram monitoring, or access to private chats is either a scammer or operating illegally.

Can Private Investigators Trace Phone Numbers?

While we do not offer hacking, tracing phone numbers is a legitimate and separate service. We may be able to trace a number to a name, address, or location — especially when this information supports a legal investigation, such as verifying who is contacting your partner or identifying unknown callers.

How Do Private Investigators Catch Cheaters?

Though we cannot hack phones, we offer effective and legal alternatives to investigate infidelity. These include:

• Personal surveillance to monitor a partner’s activities discreetly
• GPS tracking where legally permissible
• Facial recognition background checks that may uncover dating profiles or adult content

Our surveillance services are entirely lawful, discreet, and can help to confirm suspicions of cheating without compromising your legal standing.

The UK Phone Hacking Scandal

The infamous News of the World scandal highlighted how serious and illegal phone hacking is. Private investigator Glenn Mulcaire and editor Andy Coulson were convicted for intercepting voicemails. Coulson received an 18-month prison sentence in 2014.

This landmark case helped establish tighter UK data laws and made it abundantly clear that no reputable private investigator should engage in or offer any kind of hacking activity.

Are You the Victim of Electronic Surveillance?

If you suspect someone is spying on you — either via your phone or in your home — there are steps you can take. Start by:

• Changing passwords on all apps and accounts
• Enabling two-factor authentication
• Factory-resetting devices that may have spyware installed

However, those willing to install monitoring software might also plant physical bugs — such as hidden microphones or cameras.

We Offer Bug Sweeping Services Across the UK

If you suspect that your phone, home, or workplace is under surveillance, we offer professional bug sweep services to detect and remove any unauthorised monitoring devices. We operate across the UK, and in some cases, overseas.

All inquiries are handled in strict confidence. Contact one of our experienced detectives today for a free quote.

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