In a recent article for Claims Management, Beacon CEO Mike Orchard explains five common misconceptions involving criminal background searches — and what you need to know to avoid costly mistakes when conducting a criminal record search.

He observes: “Whether the criminal search is conducted by an internal special investigations unit (SIU) or an outside firm, there are a number of pitfalls to avoid when managing or contracting these kinds of investigations. Even experienced claims managers will be hard-pressed to interpret correctly the results of an incomplete, ambiguous, or contradictory work product. Faulty assumptions can lead to costly mistakes for insurers.”

Mike Orchard is president and CEO of Beacon Investigative Solutions, a national investigation agency with headquarters in Columbus, Ohio. Beacon specializes in surveillance, criminal background investigations, and corporate investigations. Beacon is licensed in 45 states and Washington, D.C. Mike can be reached at morchard@beaconinvestigation.com or 800-535-2136.

In a recent article for Property Casualty 360, Beacon CEO Mike Orchard explains how young “millennial” fraudsters are utilizing new technology to commit fraud and other cyber-crimes — and how they have learned to cover their tracks online to remain anonymous.

He observes: “Young people are no more corrupt than baby boomers, but the younger generation has far more advanced technical skills than the greying population and some are using those talents to commit criminal acts.”

It can be difficult for insurance executives and security professionals to keep pace with the constant push of emerging technologies, and their role in an expanding digital black market. Yet while young, tech-savvy fraudsters may be quick to adopt the latest online and mobile tools — from web anonymizers to digital currencies to encrypted communications — they can also be caught with diligent investigative work that mixes both computer forensics and standard fraud investigation practices.

Read the entire article here.

Mike Orchard is president and CEO of Beacon Investigative Solutions, a national investigation agency with headquarters in Columbus, Ohio. Beacon specializes in fraud investigations, surveillance, background and corporate investigations. Beacon is licensed in 45 states and Washington, D.C. Mike can be reached at morchard@beaconinvestigation.com or 800-535-2136.

In a recent article for Consumer Law Magazine, Beacon CEO Mike Orchard discusses what business owners should do to ensure that holiday cheer does not turn into trouble — as well as important steps to take if any there are any employee incidents that create potential liability for the company.

He observes: “By implementing a plan to deal with any issues that could affect the reputation and working environment of your company, you enhance your corporate culture and provide a safe working environment for all your staff.”

Read the entire article here.

Mike Orchard is president and CEO of Beacon Investigative Solutions, a national investigation agency with headquarters in Columbus, Ohio. Beacon specializes in surveillance, background investigations, and corporate investigations, including employee misconduct. Beacon is licensed in 45 states and Washington, D.C. Mike can be reached at morchard@beaconinvestigation.com or 800-535-2136.