Question: Why do we need probity checks and due diligence?
It is often the case that people and organizations start a business relationship with insufficient knowledge of an individual’s background and/or their associates. These very same people are those who you will entrust with your assets, data and intellectual property.
Securely Swiss as Private Investigator Office & Detective Agency provides probity and due diligence services to assist with the following scenarios:
Employee/candidate screening and background checks
Mergers & Acquisitions
Joint Ventures
Initial Public Offering
Pre-investment
Competitor intelligence
Litigation intelligence
To unwind a relationship is far more difficult and costly than identifying risks before entering a business relationship. Through our network and access to various databases (HUMINT, OSINT, CYBINT, SOCMINT, FININT) we can provide, in most jurisdictions, searches such as:
Subject was involved in civil or criminal litigation. If so what was the litigation about and what was the outcome.
Subject was the subject of a police, tax office, national or local government investigation. If yes, what was the investigation about and what was the outcome.
Critical or negative stories or comments in the press or on social media? If so what were these negative stories or comments about
Company director / incorporation date / registered office
Shareholder details
Credit worthiness
Verification of tertiary & professional qualifications
Litigation records
Bankruptcy
Land titles
Are there any ‘probity red flags’
What is the due diligence process?
An investigator office or detective agency will often use forensic accounting investigations, background checks, surveillance, asset searches, financial investigations, and other corporate investigation methods to find out how a company works. In some cases, investigators will need to review public records, speak with company clients and customers, and contact overseas offices to uncover the legitimacy and potential of a company. A good private investigator or detective agency will work with you to determine which methods your particular investigation needs.
What are the types of Due diligence?
Legal: This aspect deals with the intellectual property of the company in question. It involves contracts, loans, property, employment, and pending litigations.
Financial: Financial due diligence verifies a company’s finances. It looks at things like earnings, assets, liabilities, cash flow, debt, and management.
Commercial: Commercial due diligence brings into consideration the current market. This includes conversations with customers, competitor assessments, and any business plans in place.
Other: External types of due diligence include taxation, pensions, human resources, and IT systems.
Can I conduct due diligence on my own?
Yes, but it wouldn’t be effective. Private investigators and Detective Agencies are experienced, they know exactly what information they’re looking for, they also can obtain evidence legally and they have access to resources that are not available to the public. An investigator will be able to get you accurate information in a timely manner so you can dedicate your time to other aspects of the transaction.