Pretexting Be A Thing Of The Past
The FCC has recently released a mandate in reference to pretexting and the phone companies guidelines to implement caller ID to combat spoofed phone calls. Pretexting has been an essential tool used by private investigators to obtain information from someone about something.
Example: “Hello, my name is _____ _____, I work with Hire right, and I’m calling about an employee that used to work there named ______. Would you be able to answer a few brief questions in relation to his or her employment while at the company?”
Example: “Good Afternoon my name is _____ _____, and I work with FedEx customer care. I’m trying to deliver a package to a _____ _____ (insert random or old address here). It is a signature required package, is there a time frame for delivery that would be best?”
The information obtained over the phone is much easier to obtain rather than in person, as the information being provided to the Subject in the case is relevant, and they may be expecting something in the mail (above example). This is what some may call life-hacking, and although investigators attempt to do this within the legal parameters, the FCC is cracking down on all the scams out there. We all know the home warranty calls received on a weekly, if not daily basis.
The information that private investigators obtain may change due to this mandate. Without pretexting, we may have to find other methods of approach, communicating with relatives, or directly with subjects. Being able to confirm information will be placed heavily on skip tracing service providers and the phone companies themselves. This although doesn’t answer the question as to how VoIP caller ID’s will be dealt with. While many companies overseas may not be affected by the FCC regulations, they may have to intervene with app providers (Apple, Google Play Store). There will always be a work around, as private investigators find new methods of approach each day.
“The FCC estimates that the benefits of eliminating the wasted time and nuisance caused by illegal scam robocalls will exceed $3 billion annually, and STIR/SHAKEN is an important part of realizing those cost savings. Additionally, when paired with call analytics, STIR/SHAKEN will help protect American consumers from fraudulent robocall schemes that cost Americans approximately $10 billion annually. Improved caller ID authentication will also benefit public safety by reducing spoofed robocalls that disrupt healthcare and emergency communications systems. Further, implementation of STIR/SHAKEN will restore consumer trust in caller ID information and encourage consumers to answer the phone, to the benefit of consumers, businesses, healthcare providers, and non-profit organizations.”
For more information you may view the mandate here.
FAQs: Understanding the Future of Pretexting in Investigations
1. What is pretexting, and how has it been used in investigations?
Pretexting involves impersonating someone to obtain information under false pretenses. Private investigators have historically used this technique to gather details about individuals or situations by posing as legitimate entities, such as employers or service providers.
2. Why is pretexting becoming less effective?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has implemented mandates requiring phone companies to authenticate caller IDs through technologies like STIR/SHAKEN. These measures aim to combat spoofed calls, making it more challenging for investigators to use pretexting without detection.
3. What are the legal implications of pretexting?
Pretexting can lead to legal issues, especially if it involves unauthorized access to personal information. Investigators must navigate privacy laws carefully, as deceptive practices can result in penalties or compromised investigations.
4. How are investigators adapting to these changes?
With the decline of pretexting, investigators are turning to alternative methods such as skip tracing, direct communication with relatives, and leveraging information from service providers. These approaches help confirm details without resorting to deceptive tactics.
5. What does the future hold for investigative techniques?
As technology evolves, investigators will continue to adapt by exploring new tools and methodologies. While pretexting may diminish, the core objective remains: to gather accurate information ethically and legally.
