Introduction
There are plenty of misconceptions about tracing people, whether finding long-lost family, locating a debtor, or finding missed beneficiaries. As a professional tracing company, we often hear the same concerns from clients, and it’s time to debunk some of the common myths about tracing. Whether you are planning on using a tracing agency or want to understand more about the process, this blog will help answer any questions.
Myth 1: Tracing people is illegal
One of the biggest misconceptions is that address tracing is illegal or that it infringes on privacy rights. While any activity involving personal data must adhere to strict legal and ethical guidelines, tracing is completely legal in the UK if conducted correctly.
Professional tracing companies operate within the framework of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other privacy laws, meaning any personal data collected is handled responsibly. Any trace submitted must be for legitimate reasons, such as debt recovery, probate and pensions.
When it comes to Family and Friend tracing there are different regulations which is why we require consent from the subject for data protection reasons.
Myth 2: Tracing is only for Debt Collection
Many companies use tracing agents to locate individuals who have defaulted on loans or disappeared without paying bills. Tracing services are commonly associated with debt recovery however, we also play a vital role in other important areas.
For Example:
- Probate cases
- Tenant issues
- Pensions
- Legal documents
- Family & Friend traces
Tracing isn’t just about financial recovery, it’s about helping people in a variety of personal and legal situations.
Myth 3: Tracing is a simple task you can do yourself
It’s easy to think you can track someone down with a few clicks on social media, and while platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn can help you find someone, tracing agents go far beyond basic online searches.
Tracing agents have access to specialist databases, legal resources, and investigative techniques that aren’t available to the general public. These databases allow us to gather accurate, up-to-date information quickly and efficiently. We ensure a thorough and legitimate search is conducted.
Myth 4: Tracing agencies guarantee 100% success
While trace agents are highly skilled, no company can guarantee 100% success in every case. Numerous factors may complicate the search, such as whether someone has left the country or broken the financial link. While success isn’t always guaranteed, our methods significantly improve the likelihood of locating someone compared to DIY searches.
Myth 5: All tracing agencies are the same
Not all companies are the same, some are highly reputable, operating within strict legal and ethical guidelines, while others may cut corners or engage in questionable practices. It’s important to research and choose a tracing agency that has a proven track record, operates transparently and can demonstrate compliance with GDPR.
Look for companies that:
- Have positive reviews.
- Are registered with relevant regulatory bodies.
- Offer clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees.
Choosing the right agency will ensure you get the most accurate, timely, and affordable results while maintaining legal and ethical standards.
Conclusion
There are many myths surrounding tracing services, but the reality is that tracing is a legitimate, legal, and often essential service that helps reconnect families, recover debts, and resolve legal issues.
If you need to use a tracing company, ensure that it is reputable and adheres to the law. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you locate the individuals you need to find.
