Online Tools for the Modern Private Investigator: A List of Must-Haves


Published 12-20-22

The importance of online tools for private investigators

As the world becomes increasingly digital, online tools have become an essential part of the toolkit for private investigators. Online tools are defined as software or applications that are accessed and used through the internet, and they can assist private investigators in a variety of tasks, such as gathering information, analyzing data, and conducting surveillance.

Some examples of online tools that are commonly used by private investigators include social media monitoring software, location tracking apps, and databases for public records. In this blog post, we'll be discussing the top five most loved online tools for private investigators.

Top 5 most loved online tools for private investigators

1. Internet Archive


A non-profit digital library containing millions of books, jobs, and people, Internet Archive consists of 330 billion web pages, 20 million books, and more.

2. Whois Domain Tool


If you’re looking for an online entity, Whois Domain Tool enables you to trace the ownership and tenure of a domain name. Get hosting history, a name server report, reverse name, and domain search.

3. Newspaper.com


Newspaper.com boasts the largest online newspaper archive. You can use it to search historical newspapers from the 1700s to 2000s.

4. Vault

Vault is an excellent app for those who want to ensure any confidential investigative material is protected. This app enables the user to lock data on his or her phone such as pictures and call logs. PIs need to be sure the information they obtain is safeguarded and this app ensures optimal protection. The app can even take a picture of an “intruder” in the event that someone attempts to break into your phone.

5. Ultimate Public Records

This app is a must for a PI seeking to obtain relevant information on a person. Using the app, users are able to search personal information listed as public record, all with the click of a button. Especially practical when first obtaining information on a new subject, this app can be used as a convenient alternative to laptop or desktop record searches.

Conclusion: The value of online tools for private investigators


It's important for private investigators to stay up-to-date on new and emerging online tools, as these tools can help them stay competitive in a rapidly-evolving field. While online tools can be incredibly useful, it's also important for private investigators to use their critical thinking skills and knowledge of the law to effectively conduct investigations and make sound decisions.


Overall, the use of online tools is an essential part of the modern private investigator's toolkit, and these tools will likely continue to play a key role in the field for years to come.