Empower Your Investigations
Unlock expert guidance and resources for professional investigators and individuals seeking the truth.
Training tools and resources for a private investigator to develop and enhance skills:
1. Investigation Techniques
Surveillance Training Courses: Focused on urban and rural surveillance tactics.
Skip Tracing Software:
Skip Genie
TLOxp
IDI Data
OSINT (Open Source Intelligence) Tools:
Maltego
Shodan
Spybot Identity Monitor
GPS and Tracking Devices:
Magnetic GPS trackers
Real-time GPS tracking apps (e.g., Tracki, Spytec)
Reconnaissance Drones: Small drones with high-resolution cameras for aerial surveillance.
2. Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigations
Forensic Tools:
EnCase
FTK Imager (AccessData)
Cellebrite (mobile device forensics)
Password Recovery Software:
Passware
ElcomSoft
Social Media Investigation Tools:
Hootsuite Insights
Social Searcher
Geofeedia
Dark Web Tools:
Tor browser
OnionScan (to analyze dark web activity)
3. Interview and Interrogation Training
Training Programs:
Reid Technique of Interviewing
Wicklander-Zulawski Method (WZ)
Voice Stress Analysis Tools:
Truster Pro
Computer Voice Stress Analyzer (CVSA)
Recording and Documentation Devices:
Portable audio recorders
High-quality hidden cameras
4. Legal and Ethical Training
PI Licensing Prep Courses (varies by state)
Continuing Education Resources:
National Association of Legal Investigators (NALI)
Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE)
Online Law Databases:
LexisNexis
Westlaw
5. Field Equipment and Tools
Basic Tools:
Binoculars with rangefinders
Night vision goggles
Specialized Tools:
Hidden cameras (pens, buttons, etc.)
Signal jammers (check legality by jurisdiction)
Vehicle Equipment:
Dashcams
Covert license plate cameras
6. Professional Development
Workshops and Seminars:
International Association of Private Investigators (IAPI) events
Regional PI conferences
Books:
Practical Handbook for Private Investigators
Confidential: The Private Investigator's Guide to Surveillance
Networking Tools:
LinkedIn Groups (e.g., Private Investigator Network)
Meetup groups for local investigators
7. Technology and Software Skills
Mapping and Geolocation Tools:
Google Earth Pro
ArcGIS
Report Writing Software:
Case management systems like CROSStrax or Clio
Photography Tools:
DSLR cameras with telephoto lenses
SpyPoint trail cameras for discreet use
8. Physical Training and Self-Defense
Tactical Training:
Firearms handling and safety courses
Defensive driving programs
Martial Arts:
Krav Maga, etc
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, etc
Fitness Tracking Tools:
Wearables (e.g., Garmin, Fitbit) for stamina building
9. Practice Scenarios and Simulations
Role-Playing Scenarios:
Simulated stakeouts
Mock interviews
Investigation Software for Training:
Investigative case simulations (e.g., DiligentPI)
Observation and Awareness Drills:
Spot-the-difference exercises
Shadowing practice in public spaces
10. Online Resources and Forums
Community Groups:
Reddit (e.g., r/PrivateInvestigators)
Private Investigator forums
YouTube Tutorials:
Channels focused on PI techniques and equipment reviews
Podcasts:
The Private Investigator Thought Experiment
PI Perspectives
PrivateInvestigator.app
Asking $19,990 OBO