ABI A -to- Z list of professional investigation terminology

A: Asset Search - The process of locating and evaluating a person or entity's assets, such as property, bank accounts, investments, etc.

B: Bug Sweep - Also known as electronic countermeasures (ECM), it is the process of detecting and removing hidden surveillance devices or bugs from a location.

C: Covert Operation - An undercover or secret operation conducted by a professional investigator to gather information or evidence discreetly.

D: Due Diligence - The process of conducting thorough research and investigation to verify the background, reputation, financial stability, or legal status of a person or organization.

E: Eavesdropping - Secretly listening to or monitoring conversations of individuals to gather information or evidence.

F: Forensic Investigation - The application of scientific techniques and methods to investigate and analyse evidence gathered from a crime scene, accident, or other incidents.

G: GPS Tracking - The use of Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to track the location of a person, vehicle, or asset.

H: Hacking - Unauthorized access to computer systems or networks to gather information or disrupt operations. Note: Hacking is illegal and unethical.

I: Interview - A formal or informal questioning process conducted by a professional investigator to gather information from witnesses, suspects, or other individuals involved in a case.

J: Judgment Recovery - The process of locating and collecting court-awarded judgments on behalf of clients.

K: Know-Your-Customer (KYC) - The process of verifying the identity and background of clients or customers to prevent fraudulent activities or comply with legal regulations.

L: Legal Surveillance - The lawful monitoring and observation of individuals or locations to gather evidence or information.

M: Missing Persons Investigation - The process of locating and finding individuals who are missing or have disappeared.

N: Non-disclosure Agreement (NDA) - A legal contract that establishes confidentiality between a professional investigator and their client, ensuring that sensitive information remains protected.

O: Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) - The use of publicly available information, such as online databases, public records, social media, etc., to gather intelligence and information.

P: Polygraph Test - Also known as a lie detector test, it measures and records physiological responses to determine the truthfulness or deception of a person's statements.

Q: Questioned Document Examination - The analysis and comparison of documents, including handwriting, signatures, or forged documents, to determine authenticity or detect forgery.

R: Research - The process of collecting, analysing, and organizing information related to an investigation, including background checks, public records searches, etc.

S: Surveillance - The covert observation and monitoring of individuals, locations, or activities to gather evidence or information.

T: Tailing - The act of discreetly following and observing a person or vehicle to gather information or evidence.

U: Undercover - The practice of assuming a false identity or role to infiltrate a group, organisation, or situation for investigative purposes.

?V: Video Surveillance - The use of video cameras or recording devices to capture and document activities, behaviour, or events for investigative purposes.

W: Witness Statement - A formal written or recorded account provided by a witness, detailing their observations or knowledge related to a case.

X: X-Ray Imaging - The use of X-ray technology to examine objects, packages, or luggage for concealed items or contraband.

Y: Yard Surveillance - The surveillance of a specific location, such as a residence

Z: Zeroing In - The process of narrowing down and focusing on specific leads, suspects, or areas of investigation to gather relevant information or evidence

[email protected]

#ABIProfessionals