Hiring a private detective
Private Detective vs. Online Background Check Sites
People-search websites are fast and cheap. They're also frequently wrong. Here's when that matters and what a detective adds.
Key points
- Database results mix people and go stale
- Detectives verify at the source
- Some uses legally require FCRA-compliant screening
Why online results are unreliable
Aggregated data merges records of people with similar names, keeps old addresses and phone numbers, and often misses court records that aren't digitized. Errors are common, and the sites disclaim accuracy.
What a detective does differently
Detectives use databases as leads, then verify against original sources such as county court files, property records and licensing boards, and in the field when needed. They confirm identity so records aren't attributed to the wrong person.
When a quick search may be enough
For casual curiosity, an online search may be fine. For decisions that matter (a business partner, a caregiver, a lawsuit, a relationship), verified information is worth the cost.
Legal limits on use
Using background information for employment, tenant screening, credit or insurance decisions is governed by the Fair Credit Reporting Act. People-search sites typically prohibit these uses. See FCRA and private detectives.
Common questions
Are people-search sites legal?
Generally yes, for permitted purposes. They aren't consumer reporting agencies and can't be used for FCRA-regulated decisions.
Can a detective find court records missing online?
Often, by searching at the courthouse or through direct requests.
Is a detective much more expensive?
Focused verification is often affordable relative to the cost of acting on wrong information.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and vary by state; consult an attorney about your situation. See our legal disclaimer.
Related services
Services connected to this guide.
Background Investigations
A verified picture of who someone is, built from records, history and corroboration.
Locate & Records ResearchPeople Searches
Identifying and locating an individual from limited information.
Locate & Records ResearchCourt Records Research
Civil, criminal and probate court searches across jurisdictions.
Keep reading
Related guides.
The FCRA and Private Detectives: What You Need to Know
How the Fair Credit Reporting Act affects background investigations for employment, tenants and credit, and when investigative reports are regulated.
Personal and family mattersHow to Check Out Someone You Met Online
Safe, lawful ways to verify someone you met online: reverse image search, consistency checks, meeting safely, and professional verification.
Personal and family mattersHow to Find Someone Who Moved
How to find someone who moved: what you can try yourself, why online results mislead, and how detectives verify a current address.
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