Welcome to SB Investigation & Consultants

We are a team of experienced and highly skilled investigators and consultants based in Beverley, United Kingdom. Our mission is to provide top-notch services to help clients worldwide.

The Owner Mike

A motivated and driven individual who has benefited from world-beating tradecraft training, confident, highly educated, highly skilled streetwise individual with an exceptional background spent in counter terrorism, intelligence and counter espionage. A true leader and outstanding investigator and team player, with the ability to work with people and handle deadline orientated tasks. Comfortable in a chain of command structure and a veteran of the global 20-year war on terror. Seeking the opportunity to lend his skills and investigation experience to benefit you or your company.

A self-assured individual considered well-trained in Security Consultancy and asset protection, with 20-years working in Special Branch investigations, Counter Espionage and Counter Terrorism roles. Flexible and poised promoting well developed investigation skills in countering hostile reconnaissance, vulnerability scanning and assessing risk. Identified as a leader and a skill trainer of contemporaries.

Collaborative Security Consultant with a commitment to excellence with 30 years policing investigative experience. Project delivery in an asset protection environment, providing client confidence to expand business options. A responsible individual promoting discreet intelligence gathering, covert investigative and a vast knowledge of threat detection techniques, wherever threat exists, in todays chalenging and threatening world. Capabilities  sharpened through his subjective experiences. A skilled, experienced, and motivated professional that brings investigative capability to any personal or  working environment and with a genuine curious nature, with many inter-personal people skills, inclusive and supportive, making SB Investigation & Consultants an asset to your organisation.

 

 

Some of our procedures for meeting you, may appear a little strange but all are for your and our protection from being identified before we begin our work on your behalf, so please bear with us and all will be explained when we meet.

 

SB Investigation & Consultants 

Have a collective name for the services we offer, we call this

'Problem Solving'

Security Consulting

a trusted partner that helps organizations and individuals create safe, resilient, and well-prepared environments

Trusted Expertise: Security consultants bring specialized knowledge and experience, giving clients peace of mind that they are making the best decisions to protect what matters most. Proactive Protection: Instead of reacting to risks after they occur, consultancy helps anticipate and prevent them, ensuring stability and continuity. Tailored Solutions: Every client’s needs are unique, and consultants provide customized strategies that enhance safety while supporting growth and innovation. Confidence and Peace of Mind: Knowing that systems, people, and assets are well protected allows clients to focus fully on their core mission and goals. Resilience and Strength: Security consultancy builds the foundation for organizations to withstand challenges, adapt, and thrive in any environment. Enabler of Success: By safeguarding operations, people, and reputations, security consultancy frees clients to grow and achieve their ambitions without unnecessary worry. Put simply: a security consultancy is not about barriers, but about building confidence, resilience, and freedom to move forward securely.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a typical investigation take?

The duration of an investigation can vary depending on the complexity of the case, but we strive to provide timely results.

Are your services confidential?

Yes, being GDPR compliant, we take client confidentiality very seriously and ensure that all information shared with us remains private.

What sets SB Investigation & Consultants apart from other firms?

Our team's experience, professionalism, and commitment to excellence make us stand out in the field of investigation and consulting. We recognise that there are no certain outcomes to our investigations and much can depend on the circumstances presented to us. But you will be informed a soon as possible of the likely outcome of our involvement, allowing you to make informed decisions.

“SB Investigation & Consultants went above and beyond to help me with my case. Their attention to detail and professionalism are unmatched.”

Grahame Johnstone

Fees

We charge fees for our services, and the services we provide are as varied and flexible as any investigation or security consultation, you as a potential client may require.

We provide an initial consultation that is free of charge.

All fees for service will be discussed agreed and followed up in writing prior to commencement of our services

In addition we offer a digital service 

Blog

A day in the life of a SB Investigator

I spent 30 years of my working life in a law enforcement career. 25 years as a detective investigator, firstly in an intelligence role then defending National Security as a special branch officer.

There were difficult times and often working in a hostile environment, amplified by the 20-year war on terror, which I am proud to be a veteran of.

The experiences and the skill set’s I developed during this time of my life, led me towards opening my own business.

I then opened SB Investigation and Consultants to investigate and consult with companies or individuals that have security concerns or security problems

To give an example of the kind of work I have become involved in* was an investigation on behalf of a commercial insurance company that represented a regional business whose board member (A) had been contacted by an unknown criminal, posing as the Managing Director of the particular company (B), stating that they were involved in the acquisition of land abroad and that this acquisition was strictly confidential, so this should remain completely  confidential. (B) explained to (A) that the email address was not the usual company email address for confidentiality and ease of recognition reasons. (A) accepted this explanation and was told that (B) would be contacting them the next day for a breakdown of where the company stood financially and so (A) dutifully prepared this information anticipating that (B) would be in touch the next day. The company had £700,000.00 disposable cash in their account and when this was disclosed to (B) they explained that the acquisition would cost £450,000.00 and passed bank account details for this amount to be paid into. This was done into an account in the Philippines. Two days later a Friday evening (B) popped his head in to wish (A) a pleasant weekend and (A) confirmed verbally that the request had been done.

SB Investigation and Consultants were then contacted by the insurance company after the circumstances had been outlined to them and passed on to us and I began working with the insurers legal representatives, six days after the event, where it became obvious to me that no one involved in the whole scenario had a clue what to do about this, after reporting the loss to the police.

As there was little appetite for me to obtain a proper work visa or an (AEP) Alien Employment Permit and follow the money to the Philippines.

My advice was:

Speak to the police force covering where the crime was committed and ask them to make a request through the CPS or Home Office to contact the Philippine government (in the first instance via the Philippine ambassador to the UK) as it is suspected that a Philippine national is involved in this fraud. (this request may require the attention of a police DI or DCI rank)

Appoint a legal representative to examine the bank mandate, in the hope there may be some clause covering/preventing the transfer of such a large amount of cash?

Offer my services to travel to the Philippines and liaise with the Philippine authorities, although I did point out the company would be better off saving further money as my anticipation after 6 days, this money was long gone.

However, it struck me that the 2 larger businesses, the insurers and the law firm were all looking at each other like rabbits in the headlights and until my arrival., the only decision taken was the wrong one i.e. sack (A) that in my opinion, once sacked the element of control would be lost. Far better to keep (A) close and under control until after the inquiry was completed and all the facts established.

 

SB Investigation and Consultants thank you for your attention in this matter and if any of my readers have any other suggestions, please feel free to comment?

Or contact me at mike@sb-consultants.co.uk

Security Consultancy

We were contacted by a regional insurance company regarding the security concerns a retiring company director, and a long standing client, was having about selling his multi million company and becoming suddenly ‘cash rich’ having done so felt very vulnerable about his home and his family and was asking for some advice about measures he could take to improve the security for him and for the whole family.

On my arrival at the clients address, The client was in the process of having a CCTV system installed. My first question was about covert cameras to complement the overt cameras. This had not been considered, also the product back up was being collected on a stand alone server, secreted in the home. I made the client aware that the system should also be backed up on ‘the cloud’ so any images collected cannot be removed as the server can be should the worst happen.

 

I also asked if any contact had been mad with the police duty officer to highlight the home premises as a ‘vulnerable location’ to ensure the police had all relevant they required and thus ensuring an immediate response should they be called upon and also the neighborhood officers are aware of their existence for routine visits.

 

While I was there I met one of the clients 2 daughters, both school age, who both attended a private school and that the girls journey to school involved being driven by the clients wife. Short of hiring a security trained chauffeur to convey them in place of the wife, I advised changing the route to the school daily and avoiding predictability, and also suggested that the client should arrange to meet the head teacher who would be well versed in this kind of concern, and put into place their own security procedures, ensuring for example that collection is only allowed by known, nominated individuals

Why Clients Choose SB Investigation & Consultants 

A Conversation That Says It All
[Scene: A coffee shop setting. Two professionals — Alex, a business owner, and Jamie, a friend and corporate lawyer — are chatting over coffee.]

Alex: You know, Jamie, I’ve been seriously considering hiring a private investigation firm for a situation at work. It’s sensitive — possibly fraud, maybe even internal. I don’t want to jump the gun, but I need the truth. 
Jamie: That’s smart of you to get ahead of it. Have you looked into SB Investigation & Consultants?
Alex: Funny you mention that — their name came up. Are they really as good as people say?
Jamie: Absolutely. I’ve referred multiple clients to them. They’re not just “good”—they’re strategic, discreet, and thorough. You’re not just getting surveillance or background checks; you’re getting investigative insight you can act on.
Alex: That’s what I need. Not just someone collecting footage — someone who understands the bigger picture.
Jamie: Exactly. SB Investigation & Consultants have a reputation for solving complex cases — corporate fraud, litigation support, insurance investigations, even digital forensics. And they’re licensed and experienced across multiple sectors.
Alex: How’s their confidentiality? That’s a major concern.
Jamie: Top-tier. Every case is handled with absolute discretion. They treat sensitive information like it’s national security. Plus, their reports are admissible in court — they know how to document everything by the book.
Alex: That’s impressive. And they work with individuals too, right? Not just companies?
Jamie: Totally. Whether it’s a concerned spouse, a business partner doing due diligence, or even legal teams needing expert testimony — they handle it all. Their client base is really diverse.
Alex: Sounds like I should reach out to them sooner rather than later.
Jamie: You won’t regret it. They’re the kind of firm that doesn’t just work a case — they solve it. Ready to Discover the Truth? SB Investigation & Consultants are trusted by businesses, legal teams, and private individuals alike. With a proven track record of results-driven investigations, we provide clarity in uncertain situations. When you need answers — we deliver them. 🕵️‍♂️ Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

mike@sb-consultants.co.uk

 

What Does a Private Investigator Do?

 

Everything You Need to Know in the UK

 

Outline:

1. Introduction

2. Main Types of Investigative Services

3. Typical Methods / Process Used

4. Legal & Ethical Boundaries in the UK

5. What Evidence Is Admissible

6. Costs & Timeframes

7. Why Use a Reputable Investigator

8. Conclusion & CTA

 

Body:

 

Introduction

When you need clarity, truth or proof, hiring a private investigator can be a powerful tool. But what exactly does a private investigator do, especially under UK law? Whether you are an individual, business, insurer or solicitor, understanding what investigators can — and cannot — legally do helps you make an informed decision.

 

 

1. Main Types of Investigative Services

Private investigators typically offer:

• Surveillance (observing a person’s activities, movements)

• Matrimonial / relationship investigations (infidelity/faithfulness)

• Corporate investigations (fraud, embezzlement, internal misconduct)

• Digital investigations & forensics (emails, devices, social media)

• Background checks / due diligence (for new hires, partners, suppliers)

• Asset tracing (finding hidden assets, offshore holdings)

• Insurance investigations (fraudulent claims, false reporting)

• Missing persons / locating individuals

 

These may overlap depending on client needs.

 

 

2. Typical Methods / Process Used

Initial consultation & brief: understanding the client’s aims, constraints, jurisdiction.

Planning & strategy formulation: selecting methods, legal compliance, risk assessment.

Evidence gathering: could be surveillance, interviewing witnesses, gathering documents or digital records.

Reporting: assembling findings in a format usable by clients or, if needed, courts or solicitors.

 

 

3. Legal & Ethical Boundaries in the UK

• Investigators must comply with the Human Rights Act, Data Protection Act / UK GDPR, Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA), among others.

• Covert surveillance has specific restrictions; private investigators cannot break the law (e.g. trespass, hacking, misrepresentation beyond what is allowed).

• Respecting privacy and ensuring information is collected fairly and lawfully.

 

 

4. What Evidence Is Admissible

• Chain of custody is often important – records of who handled what evidence, when, how.

• Witness statements must be properly collected.

• Digital evidence must be captured in a way that preserves integrity.

• Some evidence may be excluded if improperly collected or obtained illegally.

 

 

5. Costs & Timeframes

• Costs depend on complexity, duration, location, travel, equipment used.

• Some investigations can take days; others weeks or months (e.g. tracing hidden assets).

• Some firms charge hourly rates; others fixed fees or milestone payments.

 

 

6. Why Use a Reputable Investigator

• To ensure legal compliance and admissibility of evidence.

• To protect confidentiality.

• To ensure professional conduct, reliability and trust.

 

 

Conclusion & CTA

 

If you’re considering hiring a private investigator in the UK, SB Investigation Consultants offers discreet, lawful, and expert services tailored to your needs. Contact us for a free, confidential initial consultation to discuss your situation and explore the best way forward.

 

==========================

 


Title:
Signs Your Partner May Be Cheating — When to Seek Professional Help

 

Outline:

1. Introduction

2. Behavioural Signs & Red Flags

3. Digital & Social Clues

4. Emotional & Communication Changes

5. What You Can & Cannot Do Yourself

6. How an Investigator Helps

7. Legal & Ethical Considerations

8. Conclusion & CTA

 

Body:

 

Introduction

Relationships can be complex. Trust is fundamental. When you suspect that your partner may be cheating, the uncertainty is stressful. This article outlines red flags, what to do, and when hiring a professional investigator may be the right choice.

 

 

1. Behavioural Signs & Red Flags

• Sudden secretiveness (phone calls/texts hidden, deleting messages)

• Regular changes in schedule or unexplained absences

• Unusual deductibility in expenses or dissimilar spending patterns

• Decreased intimacy or emotional withdrawal

 

 

2. Digital & Social Clues

• Changes in social media usage (new profiles, more private posts)

• Unexplained followers, messages or online activity at odd hours

• Frequent online “friends” you don’t know

 

 

3. Emotional & Communication Changes

• More arguments without real reason

• Defensive behavior when asked simple questions

• Seeming anxiety or guilt

 

 

4. What You Can & Cannot Do Yourself

• You can observe behaviour, keep notes, use open communication.

• But you should not invade privacy (e.g. hacking accounts, illegal surveillance) — doing so can backfire legally or ethically.

 

 

5. How an Investigator Helps

• Objective evidence gathering (photos, observation, witness statements)

• Covert surveillance (within legal limits)

• Digital forensics (analyzing device usage)

• Preparing reports that can be used in court or proceedings

 

 

6. Legal & Ethical Considerations

• UK law on privacy, data protection, and human rights.

• Ensuring collected evidence is legal & admissible.

• Ensuring the rights of all involved are respected.

 

 

Conclusion & CTA

 

If you recognize several of the signs above and need help with clarity, SB Investigation Consultants is ready to assist. Reach out today for a confidential consultation — we’re here to help in a lawful, sensitive, and professional manner.

 

======================

 

Title: Employee Fraud in SMEs: Red Flags, Prevention & When to Investigate

Outline:

1. Introduction

2. What Employee Fraud Looks Like

3. Key Red Flags Employers Should Know

4. Preventative Measures & Controls

5. When to Engage External Investigation

6. What an Investigation Might Involve

7. Case Example

8. Conclusion & CTA

 

Body:

 

Introduction

For small‐to‐medium enterprises (SMEs), employee fraud isn’t just a theoretical risk — it can cause serious financial loss and damage reputation. Recognising warning signs early, putting in place preventative measures, and knowing when to call in professionals can protect your business.

 

 

1. What Employee Fraud Looks Like

• Theft of cash or assets

• Falsified expense claims

• Payroll fraud (paying ghost employees)

• Misuse of company credit cards or vendor relationships

 

 

2. Key Red Flags Employers Should Know

• Unexplained discrepancies in accounting records

• Employees living beyond their means

• Resistance to audits or controls

• Employees with sole control over critical processes without checks

 

 

3. Preventative Measures & Controls

• Segregation of duties (split responsibilities)

• Regular internal audits and reviews

• Mandated vacations (so fraud may be noticed in absence)

• Clear financial policies, expense claim validation

 

 

4. When to Engage External Investigation

• When internal suspicions are strong but insufficient proof

• If internal bias or conflicts might interfere

• When you need credibility (e.g. for legal proceedings, insurers)

 

 

5. What an Investigation Might Involve

• Documentary reviews (accounts, invoices, bank statements)

• Interviews with staff or witnesses

• Surveillance / observation of suspect behaviour

• Analysing digital logs / access records

 

 

6. Case Example (anonymised for confidentiality)

Imagine an SME noticed expense claims growing each quarter. Internal audit was inconclusive. An external investigator uncovered that a mid‑level employee was creating fake supplier invoices, cashing them, and falsifying records. The evidence provided allowed recovery of funds and stronger system redesign for the future.

 

 

Conclusion & CTA

 

Preventing employee fraud starts with awareness and strong internal controls — but when suspicion arises, acting quickly matters. SB Investigation Consultants can support SMEs with discreet investigations, forensic accounting, and system reviews. Contact us to know more.

===================

Title: Digital Forensics 101: How We Investigate Devices, Data & Online Traces

 

Outline:

1. Introduction

2. What Is Digital Forensics?

3. The Types of Digital Evidence

4. The Forensic Process (Collection, Preservation, Analysis)

5. Challenges & Common Pitfalls

6. Legal Framework in the UK

7. Real‑World Scenarios Where It Helps

8. Conclusion & CTA

 

Body:

 

Introduction

In a world where so much of what we do is online, digital forensics has become a central part of many investigations. Whether it’s fraudulent activity, infidelity, corporate espionage, or disputes, being able to properly recover and analyse digital evidence is critical.

 

 

1. What Is Digital Forensics?

Digital forensics is a branch of forensic science that deals with the recovery, investigation, and analysis of material found in digital devices, networks, or online platforms.

 

 

2. The Types of Digital Evidence

• Computer hard drives, USBs, external storage

• Mobile phones and tablets

• Cloud storage / backups

• Email accounts, social media, messaging apps

• Log files, location metadata

 

 

3. The Forensic Process

Identification of relevant devices and data sources

Secure collection ensuring no tampering

Preservation (imaging, hashing) to maintain integrity

Analysis using specialised tools

Reporting in a clear, admissible format

 

 

4. Challenges & Common Pitfalls

• Data corrupted or overwritten

• Ensuring chain of custody

• Encryption, password protection, locked devices

• Jurisdictional issues (if data stored abroad)

 

 

5. Legal Framework in the UK

• Data Protection Act / UK GDPR

• Investigatory Powers Act

• Human Rights Act

• Ensuring compliance with law for privacy and surveillance

 

 

6. Real‑World Scenarios Where It Helps

• Employee accessing competitor via emails

• Recovering deleted messages in infidelity cases

• Analysing logs for cyber intrusion or malware events

 

 

Conclusion & CTA

 

Digital evidence can be powerful, but only when collected correctly. At SB Investigation Consultants, our digital forensic services are designed for precision, legality, and admissibility. Get in touch to discuss how we can assist in your case.

Title: How to Choose a Reliable Investigation Firm: 10 Key Questions to Ask

 

Outline:

1. Introduction

2. License & Accreditation

3. Track Record & Case Studies

4. Discretion & Confidentiality

5. Legal Compliance & Ethics

6. Methods & Technology Used

7. Cost & Transparency

8. Communication & Reporting

9. Insurance & Liability

10. Local Knowledge & Reach

11. Conclusion & CTA

 

Body:

 

Introduction

Not all investigations are equal. Choosing the wrong firm can lead to wasted time, inappropriate methods, or even legal trouble. Here are 10 critical questions to ask when selecting an investigator in the UK to ensure you’re in safe hands.

 

 

1. Are you licensed / accredited?

Ask about certifications, relevant professional bodies, regulatory oversight.

2. Can you show case studies or references?

Real examples of similar work help judge capability.

3. How do you ensure confidentiality?

Secure handling of client info, non‑disclosure, discretion.

4. Are your methods legal & ethical?

Ensure no illegal surveillance or breaches of privacy or data protection.

5. What technology do you use?

Digital forensics tools, surveillance equipment, OSINT tools, etc.

6. How are costs structured & how transparent are you?

Clear fee structures, explanations of likely expenses.

7. What will your communication & reporting look like?

Clarity, frequency, format of reports.

8. Do you have liability insurance?

Protection for both you and client.

9. How much local knowledge do you have?

Knowing local law enforcement, courts, geography helps.

10. What is your geographic reach / capacity?

Do they cover just your city, region, UK‑wide, or international cases?

 

 

Conclusion & CTA

 

Asking the right questions helps avoid risks and choose a partner you can trust. If you want an investigator who meets all these standards, SB Investigation Consultants maintains the highest levels of professionalism, expertise, and discretion. Reach out to learn more or arrange a preliminary discussion.

Contact us

Have a question or need to book an appointment? Contact us using the form below or give us a call at +44 (0)1482 908455

mike@sb-consultants.co.uk

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