How to Identify a Fraudulent Private Investigator: Red Flags to Watch For
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Hiring a private investigator can be a smart move when you're dealing with a sensitive issue—whether it's locating someone, uncovering fraud, or verifying facts. But in a field that deals with trust and discretion, not everyone claiming to be a “PI” is the real deal. Unfortunately, there are scams even within the investigation industry—especially in large metro areas like New York City and Long Island.
Here’s how to protect yourself, avoid bad actors, and make sure you’re working with a licensed and reputable private investigation firm like Easton Secure Solutions LLC.
Why Private Investigator Scams Happen
Scammers often prey on urgency and emotional vulnerability. People who need a PI may already be stressed or in a crisis—searching for a missing person, suspecting infidelity, or being defrauded in some way.
Unlicensed individuals or outright scammers can take advantage by:
- Demanding large upfront payments and disappearing
- Pretending to have connections they don’t
- Faking credentials or offering vague promises
- Delivering falsified or copied reports
- Failing to disclose that they are not legally licensed
These situations don’t just waste your money—they can make your problem worse. If someone performs illegal surveillance or misuses sensitive data, you could face legal consequences just for hiring them.
What Makes a Real PI Different?
A legitimate private investigator in New York must be licensed by the New York State Department of State. They are required to follow strict legal and ethical standards and typically have:
- Background in law enforcement, military, or security
- Formal training in investigations and surveillance
- Access to professional-grade databases
- Insurance and bonding as required by law
- A verifiable license number
Easton Secure Solutions LLC is a fully licensed private investigation agency serving New York City, Long Island, and offering remote services nationwide.
Red Flags to Watch For
Look out for these warning signs when hiring a PI:
🚩 No license or refusal to show one
🚩 Only communicates via email or messaging apps
🚩 Unwilling to provide a clear scope of services
🚩 Prices that are extremely low—or suspiciously high
🚩 They promise guaranteed outcomes (No real PI can promise a result.)
If it feels off, it probably is. A licensed investigator should be transparent about the process and answer your questions without hesitation.
How to Verify a PI’s License in New York
Before hiring any investigator in New York, you can and should verify their license with the state.
👉 Click here to search the official New York Department of State license database
You can search by:
- Business name (e.g., Easton Secure Solutions LLC)
- Individual name of the investigator
- License number (if provided)
The system will tell you whether their license is active, expired, suspended, or revoked.
Any real Private Investigator will provide their license information upfront—and if they don’t, that’s your cue to walk away.
What You Should Expect From a Real Private Investigation Business
When you work with Easton Secure Solutions LLC, here’s what you’ll get:
✅ A free initial consultation to discuss your situation
✅ A clear, written agreement outlining services and fees
✅ Investigations conducted within legal and ethical boundaries
✅ Access to advanced, professional-grade OSINT and proprietary tools
✅ Real updates, not vague promises
✅ A licensed investigator with experience in civil, legal, and fraud-related cases
We’ll never promise what we can’t deliver. And we’ll always be upfront about the limitations and risks of an investigation.
Are Private Investigator Scams Common in NYC and Long Island?
Unfortunately, yes. The population density, volume of legal disputes, and high demand for investigative services in the New York metro area create an opportunity for bad actors.
Some operate entirely online with fake websites and spoofed credentials. Others work locally without a license, falsely claiming experience in criminal or family investigations.
That’s why working with a New York State-licensed PI firm is so important. We’re regulated, insured, and held accountable. You don’t just get someone with a camera—you get a professional who understands the law.
Can’t the Police Handle This?
Police can be helpful—but they are often limited to criminal matters and usually won’t get involved in civil cases, background checks, or infidelity investigations. Even in missing person cases, they may be overwhelmed with high-priority cases.
A licensed PI can assist in ways the police often can’t, especially when it comes to time-sensitive, non-criminal, or civil matters.
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Investment and Your Peace of Mind
Hiring a PI can bring peace of mind, closure, or critical evidence—but only if you hire the right one.
Don’t rush. Do your homework. Always verify.
And if you're in New York City, Long Island, or need remote investigative services nationwide, Easton Secure Solutions LLC is here to help—with real licenses, real tools, and real results.
📞 Get in Touch Today
Have questions or need a licensed professional on your side?
Call us at (516) 962-1267 or email [email protected] for a free consultation.
🔗 Verify Our License with NY State
Easton Secure Solutions LLC — Licensed in New York. Trusted nationwide.