What You Should Know About Background Checks — What They Reveal and What They Don’t
When most people hear the phrase “background check,” they might think of a quick internet search or a fast-track employment screening. But in reality, a proper background check, carried out by a professional investigator, goes much further than a few clicks on Google. And it’s a service that’s becoming more valuable than ever.
At Enigma Investigations, background checks are one of the key services we provide. From employers doing pre-employment screening, to individuals wanting peace of mind before entering into a relationship or financial arrangement, people come to us for accurate, discreet and law-abiding investigations.
Why do people request background checks?
The reasons vary, but they often fall into a few clear categories:
- Personal safety and trust concerns in relationships
- Verifying a potential business partner’s history
- Screening tenants or domestic staff
- Employee vetting in sensitive or high-trust roles
- Legal support for ongoing cases or disputes
Whatever the reason, a background check is about reducing risk and helping people make informed decisions.
What can a background check uncover?
A well-executed background check by Enigma Investigations can reveal a wide range of information, including:
- Name and identity verification
- Address history and property ownership
- Business affiliations and directorships
- Civil court cases and insolvency records
- Social media activity and online presence
- Signs of dishonesty in professional or personal claims
This information can be pieced together from open sources, specialist databases, and even through surveillance or fieldwork when appropriate.
What can’t a background check legally reveal?
We’re often asked if we can obtain criminal records, phone logs, or bank details. In short, not without a lawful basis. UK privacy laws, including GDPR and the Data Protection Act, are strict, and rightly so. This means:
- Criminal records require legal grounds and usually the subject’s consent
- Bank statements and credit information are off-limits without authorisation
- Phone and text records cannot be accessed without a legal order
At Enigma Investigations, we always clarify what’s legally permissible before any work begins. We believe in full transparency and ethical practice.
Why DIY background checks often fall short
It’s easy to assume that typing someone’s name into a search engine will give you all you need to know. But online information is only a small part of the picture, and it’s often inaccurate, outdated or misleading.
A professional background check, on the other hand, uses licensed databases, proper investigative methods, and experienced judgment to deliver a far more accurate and thorough report. We don’t offer rushed, low-cost options that promise the world and deliver very little. Our process is tailored, robust, and designed to provide meaningful results.
Going beyond data: our approach at Enigma Investigations
While much of the information we gather is digital, our work doesn’t stop at a screen. Our investigators may also carry out surveillance, discreet interviews or on-the-ground research, depending on the case and the client’s needs. We operate across London and the UK, and in some situations, we also support international enquiries.
We work with:
- Employers looking to screen high-level candidates
- Individuals wanting clarity about someone’s past before entering a relationship
- Legal teams requiring supporting evidence
- Families concerned about the people entering their home environment
In each case, we approach the work professionally, lawfully and with the discretion it deserves.
Let us help you move forward with confidence
Background checks are not about suspicion. They’re about assurance, safety and informed decisions. If you’re considering hiring someone, entering into a personal or business relationship, or simply want to know more about someone’s history, we’re here to help.
At Enigma Investigations, our background checking service is professional, confidential and designed to get results that matter.
Get in touch with Enigma Investigations to discuss your situation and see how we can assist. We’ll talk you through the process, explain your options, and deliver clear, accurate findings, always handled with care.