Page 26 - WBG June 2023

FEATURE Let me share a few case studies to fortify this argument CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN
further
THE GLOBAL PRIVATE INVESTIGATION
Case Study 1: Digital Forensics in Cybercrime
INDUSTRY
Investigations
The rise of cybercrime has created a pressing need for
Despite the numerous benefits of globalization and technological
private investigators to possess advanced digital forensics
advancements, private investigators still face several challenges &
capabilities. In this case study, a multinational corporation
opportunities in the new global landscape, I’ve listed a few for the
fell victim to a sophisticated cyberattack, resulting in the
reader’s reference
theft of sensitive customer data and intellectual property.
Challenge 1: Legal and Regulatory Differences
Private investigators equipped with cutting-edge digital Private investigators working on cross-border cases often encounter
forensics tools and techniques were able to trace the attack legal and regulatory challenges that vary from country to country.
back to its source. Through the analysis of network logs, One live case study involves a multinational corporation involved in
malware analysis, and data recovery, the investigators a complex intellectual property dispute. The investigation required
successfully identified the hackers, their tactics, and the gathering evidence from multiple jurisdictions, each with its own
methods used to breach the company’s cybersecurity legal framework for intellectual property rights. Private investigators
defences. This crucial evidence enabled the company to had to navigate these legal differences, ensuring their methods
take appropriate legal action and implement stronger were compliant with local laws, while still gathering the necessary
security measures to prevent future attacks. evidence to support the client’s case.

Case Study 2: Artificial Intelligence and Opportunity 1: International Collaboration
Big Data Analysis Despite the challenges, globalization presents opportunities for
The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data international collaboration among private investigators. In a live
analytics has transformed the way private investigators case study involving a high-profile financial fraud, investigators
gather and analyse information. In this case study, a law from different countries came together to share intelligence,
enforcement agency sought the assistance of private resources, and expertise. Through collaborative efforts facilitated
investigators in combating human trafficking networks by organizations like the World Association of Detectives (WAD),
operating across multiple countries. the investigators successfully unravelled the complex network of
fraudulent activities, leading to the prosecution of the perpetrators.
By harnessing the power of AI and big data analytics,
the investigators were able to analyse vast amounts of Challenge 2: Cybersecurity Threats
structured and unstructured data, including social media As technology advances, private investigators increasingly rely on
profiles, online communications, financial transactions, digital tools and online resources. However, this also exposes them
and travel records. These technologies enabled the to cybersecurity threats. In a live case study, a private investigator
investigators to identify patterns, connections, and conducting online surveillance for a corporate client encountered
key individuals involved in the human trafficking a sophisticated hacking attempt that compromised their systems.
operations. The insights derived from the data analysis This incident highlighted the importance of robust cybersecurity
greatly enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of measures to protect sensitive information and ensure the integrity
the investigation, leading to the dismantling of several of investigations.
trafficking networks and the rescue of numerous victims.

Thus we can safely say that Technological advancements
are shaping the future of private investigation,
empowering investigators with tools and capabilities that
were once unimaginable. The case studies presented here
demonstrate the transformative impact of technology in
the industry.

As private investigators continue to embrace and leverage
these advancements, they can enhance their investigative
processes, uncover crucial evidence, and address complex
challenges more effectively. By staying at the forefront
of technological innovation, private investigators can
navigate the evolving landscape of modern crimes and
ensure justice is served

24 W.A.D Beyond Global