Approach & Methods

GCI’s approach is characterized by:

• Comprehensive research that leaves no stone unturned and no detail overlooked

• Accurate and unbiased reporting that clearly lays out the relevant facts

• Sophisticated analysis and research methodologies

• Customized offerings that suit the particular needs of each client and project

• Ethical approach aligned with legal standards and industry best practices

• Confidentiality, discretion, and robust data security protections  

• Professional service that is responsive, transparent, and hassle-free 

Investigative methods used in a project may include:

GCI employs techniques from multiple investigative disciplines to deliver reliable intelligence:

• Public records research: Public records include corporate filings, civil litigation cases, criminal records, bankruptcy petitions, judgment and lien filings, regulatory disclosures, property and land records, Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) documents, and more.

  With a focus on thoroughness, GCI’s online and on-site research uncovers hard-to-find records that might be missed with a hurried or surface-level approach.

  GCI also applies an investigative and analytical lens to findings, helping clients understand what the records mean in the broader context of the engagement. 

• Media and open web research: GCI’s media research includes identifying and summarizing adverse or derogatory news articles, but it goes far beyond that, scouring the open web and multiple media databases with an investigative lens.

  Companies and individuals have become adept at manipulating their online presence, removing unflattering stories and creating the impression of success and positivity. 

  GCI’s team considers not just what is reported, but also what is missing and what is being distorted. Often the most significant intelligence is derived from fundamentals such as understanding the overall project, conducting exhaustive research, applying critical thinking, and following up on anything that feels ‘off.’

  
  

• Advanced social media and open-source intelligence (OSINT): GCI is adept at locating relevant social media profiles and carefully reviewing activity to identify undisclosed relationships, controversial posts, or other findings of interest.

  Standard social media searches may fail to locate profiles that use partial or fake names, but GCI leverages the latest OSINT techniques and tools for advanced social media research, as well as deep web and dark web research.

  By examining web domain registrations, archived web pages, data breach records, photographs, and more, GCI uncovers every trace of internet activity that can be found - often leading to unexpected results. 

  
  

• Human-source intelligence (HUMINT): GCI conducts in-depth interviews with knowledgeable human sources, discussing the track record, reputation, and characteristics of individuals and companies.

  These conversations provide new and valuable intelligence, and questions are tailored to address a client’s most urgent priorities.

  For typical projects, interviews are conducted with strict anonymity. Interviewees speak openly and honestly with the full assurance that GCI will protect their identity.

  These interviews, sometimes called back-channel reference checks, are often an essential component of due diligence. 

Coverage

GCI conducts research globally and is especially capable at handling cross-border assignments. GCI’s in-house team has extensive international affairs education and experience, and GCI maintains a global network of local partners who stand ready to provide any necessary support in jurisdictions where an on-the-ground presence is needed. 

• North America (U.S. & Canada)

• Latin America

• Israel

• France and other Francophone countries

Fees

GCI’s fees - whether hourly or per project - are competitive and in line with prevailing rates for similar services.

Please contact Dan to discuss a fee structure that will work best for your project.