Online dating is a popular way for people to meet potential partners. You can conveniently connect with others outside of your usual social circles.
However, as the popularity of dating apps and sites grows, so does the risk of encountering individuals who misrepresent themselves.
From harmless embellishments to more serious fabrications, the reality is that not everyone online is who they say they are.
At Global Investigations, we’ve noticed a rising number of inquiries about online date background checks. This growing demand reflects the genuine concerns many have about the authenticity of people they meet via digital platforms.
We discuss how a thorough background check can provide peace of mind and help ensure your online date is exactly who they claim to be.
Why Should I Consider an Online Date Background Check?
Recent data from Action Fraud shows that dating scams cost UK victims millions of pounds each year. Specifically, over £400m in just five years. But it’s not just about money. There are also serious personal safety risks when meeting someone whose identity hasn’t been confirmed. Common lies in online dating profiles include:
- False marital status
- Incorrect job information
- Made-up educational history
- Hidden criminal records
- Fake photos or age details
A background check helps give you peace of mind before getting emotionally involved. It shows whether the person you’re talking to is honest about who they are.
What Red Flags Might Suggest Someone Isn’t Being Truthful?
When chatting with someone online, some behaviours might raise concerns. They may avoid video calls or in-person meetings. Their stories might change, or they may give unclear answers about their life.
They could also ask for money or unusual favours. Their profile might seem too perfect, or they might have little social media activity with new accounts. They may also be reluctant to share connections with friends or family.
While these signs don’t always mean someone is being dishonest, they should make you think twice. A background check can help confirm whether things add up.
What Information Can a Background Check Reveal?
A professional background check can uncover various aspects of an individual’s life and history:
- Identity Verification – A background check confirms basic details like name, age, and address history. This verifies if someone is using their real identity.
- Criminal Record Checks – Professional investigators can access public records to uncover any criminal history. This includes court records of convictions, where available.
- Marital Status – Background checks can reveal if someone is married or in a civil partnership, even if they claim to be single.
- Employment Verification – Checks can confirm whether the person’s claimed job and employer are truthful.
- Social Media Analysis – Examining their online presence across social platforms can help identify inconsistencies or concerning behaviour.
- Financial Background – Where legally allowed, a background check can uncover major financial issues like bankruptcy.
How Does an Online Date Background Check Work?
Professional background checks follow a structured investigation process:
- Initial consultation – Discussing your concerns and collecting basic information about the person in question.
- Information gathering – Using the provided details to begin the verification process.
- Public records search – Examining accessible records. This includes electoral rolls, court judgments, and company directorships.
- Social media investigation – Analysing online profiles and digital footprints.
- Specialised database checks – Accessing professional databases not available to the general public.
- Discreet enquiries – Making careful enquiries through appropriate channels when necessary and legal.
- Comprehensive report – Providing a detailed, confidential report of findings.
Throughout this process, Global Investigations adheres strictly to UK data protection laws. This includes the Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR requirements.
Is It Legal to Investigate Someone I’m Dating?
In the UK, it’s legal to do a background check using publicly available information or through professional services like Global Investigations. However, some methods are not allowed. For example, accessing someone’s private accounts without permission is illegal. This includes impersonating others to get information and hacking into personal devices or accounts. Stalking or harassing the person is also against the law.
Professional investigators know the legal boundaries and always work within them. They make sure all information is gathered lawfully and ethically.
Can I Conduct a Background Check Myself?
You can do some basic verification independently. However, DIY background checks have significant limitations.
What you can do yourself:
- Search public social media profiles
- Use Google and other search engines
- Check public electoral roll information
- Look for inconsistencies in shared details
Limitations of DIY checks:
- Limited access to databases and records
- Potential legal issues if you don’t follow proper procedures
- Difficulty interpreting or verifying found information
- Risk of alerting the subject to your investigation
In comparison, professional services provide more thorough, discreet, and legally compliant checks.
How Can Global Investigations Help?
With nearly 30 years of experience, Global Investigations specialises in discreet and thorough background checks for online dating.
We offer services like identity verification, address history checks, relationship status confirmation, and criminal background screening. We also verify employment and education details, analyse social media, and provide detailed reports with useful insights.
Our investigators carry out these checks with the highest level of discretion to ensure your privacy. We deliver verified, factual information to help you make informed relationship decisions.
Finding the Balance Between Caution and Trust
Navigating online dating can be exciting, but it’s also full of uncertainties. Trust is key in any relationship, yet it’s crucial to remember that not everyone online is who they claim to be.
Verifying someone’s identity can save you from potential heartache, financial loss, or even personal danger. By using professional background check services, like Global Investigations, you ensure you’re making decisions based on truth and not assumptions.
Partner with Global Investigations Today
Our team at Global Investigations is here to help. With nearly three decades of experience, we provide thorough and discreet background checks to give you peace of mind. Contact us today to start your journey toward safer, more confident online dating.