According to an article by Buffer, social media is changing and growing every second.  “Every second 2 new members join LinkedIn…Social Media has overtaken porn as the #1 activity on the web.”  The fact of the matter is that social media sites can be a treasure chest of useful information.

A savvy social media investigator can use a variety of tools to find out everything from where people work, to who their friends are, and what they do in their spare time.  The digital footprint left by people on social media can also be useful in tracking their whereabouts, which is extremely useful for investigators that conduct surveillance, asset research and serve legal documents.

Not only is it important to know how to locate information on the web and social media sites, it is necessary that an investigator knows how to obtain all information contained in a profile and be able to preserve it.

Top Uses of Social Media:

Family Law- Preserving and documenting activities of a soon to be ex-spouse

Insurance Claims- Post accident/claim, pre-litigation, prior to surveillance (photographs & activities), & prior to settlement

Non-Profit Organization- Screening board members, donors, & volunteers

Asset Management Protection- Prior to investing in alternative finance offerings (hedge funds, angel investors, etc.)

Threat Assessment Teams- Threat response evaluation, threats to executives, prior to board meetings, prior to meeting with prospective partners (distributors, rep, supplier)

Brand Tarnishment & Threats- respond to and address concerns regarding problems with products including (defects, customer service, counterfeits)

Service of Legal Documents (Service of Process)– develop profile and photos to determine best method and time for service

University & School Threat Assessment Teams- students, faculty & visitors that could pose threats or harm reputation