Private Investigation Articles at Findadetective

New regulation of Private Investigators to be introduced

The Home Office is to introduce a new system of regulation for private investigators to protect the public from unscrupulous activity. Operating as an unlicensed private investigator will become a criminal offence, Home Secretary Theresa May announced on 31 July 2014. The regulation of private investigators will be introduced as quickly as possible and the new regime will begin sometime in 2014.

Is my private investigator licenced?

The Private Security Industry Act 2001 allows for licensing of private investigators and precognition agents. However at the time of writing (April 2011) licencing has yet to be introduced for private investigators.

Is my private investigator DPA notified?

Most organisations that process personal data must notify the Information Commissioner’s Office. Private Investigators notification must include the purpose of private investigation.

Is my private investigator CCA licenced?

The Consumer Credit Act 1974 requires most businesses that lend money to consumers or offer goods or services on credit or engage in certain ancillary credit activities to be licensed by the OFT. Trading without a licence in such cases is a criminal offence and can result in a fine and/or imprisonment.