Online dating “may seem like a convenience for some people, but youdon’t really know who is on the other end,” says Jorge Salgado-Reyes,Private Investigator with
Salgado Investigations.
There are ways to check into a potential partner’s background. Startby typing their name into Google or another search engine to see whatcomes up. You also can try an online public records search through afee-based service such as 192.com or tracesmart.com.
These searches only work if you have the person’s real name, Jorge points out.
London private investigator Jorge goes on “You have to have good, solid information.”
If you have that information, Jorge says, hiring a privateinvestigator is a good way to check up on a romantic partner. Privateinvestigators also search public records and can get informationincluding bankruptcies, professional licenses and divorces.
Background checks are a growing part of Jorge’s business. Heestimates that 90 percent of his clients conducting a check of onlinematches are women. “Most are people who have been married and divorcedbefore,” he says. “They tend to be a little older and a little wiser.They are finding inconsistencies and things aren’t quite lining up.They are really listening to what this person is telling them,” hesaid. Jorge also hears from parents who have met a child’s significantother and find him or her suspicious.
Red flags may include talking around certain subjects or talking in general terms, even when asked a specific questions.
A search by a private investigator costs £100 to £300, Jorge said,but it is inexpensive compared to getting involved with someone who isnot who they say they are. A background checkcan prevent a broken heart. “We don’t make the decision for the person,we just provide the information so they can make a decision about therelationship,” he said.
Jorge said people should pay attention to their gut feelings aboutpeople they meet. “Lots of people develop a sixth sense, but they don’tlisten to it because they can’t put their finger on what they problemis,” Jorge said. Because they can’t identify the cause of theiruncertainty, they rationalize away concerns and end up as a victim of abroken heart, or worse. So, Jorge said, “When you get that rottenfeeling in your stomach, stop. Back up. Reassess the situation.”
Watch your back
Jorge the Principle of Salgado Investigations offers these tips for your first few dates with an online match:
• Meet in a public place, where there are lots of people around.
• Only give your first name until you know you get to know your date.
• Drive yourself to the meeting. Don’t rely on your date for a ride.
• Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
• Have a mobile phone with you.
• Limit your alcohol intake.
• Don’t leave drinks unattended. If you must leave the table, order another drink when you get back.
• If the relationship progresses, go slow.
• Listen to your instincts.