What Does a Private Investigator Actually do?
When most people hear the words private investigator, they imagine trench coats, fedoras, and binoculars. Hollywood has painted investigators as mysterious figures lurking in alleyways or chasing cars through crowded streets. The truth? Real private investigation is far more professional, detailed, and technical than the movies suggest.
If you’ve ever wondered what actually happens behind the scenes, here’s a closer look at the work a licensed private investigator does every day.
Surveillance: More Than Just Watching
Surveillance is one of the most common tools in a private investigator’s toolkit. But it’s not about dramatic car chases or rooftop stakeouts. Real surveillance requires patience, strategy, and advanced technology. Investigators discreetly observe people, locations, or assets to gather evidence of behavior, whether it’s a suspected cheating spouse, an insurance fraud case, or an employee misusing company resources.
The goal is simple: provide clients with clear, reliable evidence they can use to make informed decisions.
Click here to read more about our surveillance services.
Background Checks and Due Diligence
Private investigators are skilled at uncovering information that most people cannot access on their own. A background check can include employment verification, financial history, criminal records, and social connections.
For businesses, this is essential when hiring staff, taking on new partners, or making investments. For individuals, it provides peace of mind when hiring caregivers, entering relationships, or trusting someone new. Unlike a quick Google search, professional due diligence involves verifying information across multiple reliable sources.
Click here to read more about our Background Check services.
Corporate Investigations
In today’s world, companies face growing risks of fraud, theft, and compliance issues. Private investigators step in to protect businesses by conducting internal integrity checks, identifying employee misconduct, and gathering evidence of financial wrongdoing.
These investigations help organizations reduce losses, maintain trust, and protect their reputation. For executives and business owners, having a trusted investigator on call can mean the difference between catching a problem early and facing major financial damage.
Click here to read more about our Corporate Investigation services.
Bug and Camera Detection (TSCM Sweeps)
Privacy concerns are on the rise, and many people wonder: Am I being watched?
Technical Surveillance Countermeasures (TSCM) are specialized sweeps designed to detect hidden cameras, GPS trackers, and listening devices. Investigators use high-grade spectrum analyzers, RF detectors, and physical inspections to uncover threats that would otherwise go unnoticed.
These bug sweeps are common in divorce cases, corporate espionage scenarios, or harassment situations where protecting sensitive information is critical.
Click here to read more about our Bug and Camera Detection services.
Infidelity and Relationship Investigations
It’s one of the oldest and still most requested services in private investigation: infidelity cases. When suspicions of a cheating partner arise, emotions run high, and the need for clarity becomes overwhelming.
Private investigators approach these cases with empathy and discretion, focusing on facts rather than speculation. Through careful surveillance and documentation, they provide clients with the evidence they need to confirm or dispel doubts, allowing them to make informed choices about their future.
Click here to read more about our Infidelity and Cheating Partner services.
Legal Support and Evidence Gathering
Private investigators don’t just work for individuals and businesses; they also support lawyers and legal teams. From witness interviews to surveillance reports, investigators provide admissible evidence that can stand up in court.
By ensuring that documentation is accurate, lawful, and clearly presented, they strengthen legal cases and help attorneys advocate for their clients more effectively.
The Reality Behind the Role
A private investigator’s work is about more than mystery and intrigue. It’s about uncovering the truth, protecting clients, and providing answers where none seem to exist.
Whether it’s supporting a business investigation, conducting a bug sweep, or helping someone find peace of mind in their personal life, investigators combine professionalism, persistence, and technology to get results.
Need Answers?
Investigation Hotline has been helping clients across Toronto and Ontario for over 30 years. From corporate intelligence and integrity checks to infidelity cases and bug detection, our team brings clarity to life’s most difficult questions.
📞 Contact Investigation Hotline today and speak with a licensed private investigator who can help you uncover the truth.
To learn more, contact Investigation Hotline at +1 416-205-9114 or Speak with the Experts Now
