Skip tracing is the process of locating someone who has “skipped” town or gone missing. It is a technique often used by debt collectors, private investigators, and bounty hunters to track down people who owe money or have fled justice. Skip tracing requires a unique set of skills and strategies, as well as access to certain databases and technology. In this article, we will discuss the art of skip tracing and the techniques used to locate hard-to-find individuals.
The first step in skip tracing is gathering as much information as possible about the individual you are trying to locate. This information can include their name, date of birth, social security number, phone number, address history, employment history, and any known associates. This information can be obtained from public records, credit reports, social media profiles, and other sources.
Once you have gathered as much information as possible, it’s time to start using skip tracing techniques. One of the most common techniques is called “database searching.” This involves searching through various databases to find information on the individual, such as their current address, phone number, and employment history. There are several databases available, including public records, credit bureaus, and proprietary databases used by skip tracing companies.
Another technique used in skip tracing is called “surveillance.” This involves physically following the individual or watching their home or workplace to determine their location. Surveillance requires a great deal of skill and patience, and it can be time-consuming and expensive.
Social media has also become a valuable tool for skip tracing. By searching for the individual’s name or username on various social media platforms, you can often find information about their location, employment, and personal relationships. Social media can also provide valuable clues about the individual’s whereabouts, such as their location tagged in a post or a photo taken at a specific location.
In addition to these techniques, skip tracing also requires a great deal of creativity and problem-solving skills. Often, individuals who are being sought after will go to great lengths to avoid detection, such as using false identities, living off the grid, or constantly moving. It’s up to the skip tracer to use their skills and resources to locate the individual and bring them to justice.
Skip tracing is a complex and challenging field that requires a unique set of skills and techniques. By gathering as much information as possible, using various databases and technology, and employing creative problem-solving skills, skip tracers can locate hard-to-find individuals and bring them to justice. Whether you are a debt collector, private investigator, or bounty hunter, mastering the art of skip tracing is essential for success in the field.