March 12, 2026

Fraud investigation – Online romance scam

Background

A TV production company approached Conflict International for assistance in researching a true crime series about a notorious serial killer. The subject had lived internationally throughout their life, frequently changing locations, which made tracking their movements and connections particularly challenging. The production team required in-depth research to uncover new insights, verify historical details, and locate individuals who could provide first-hand accounts.

Challenge

Due to the significant time that had passed since the crimes occurred, traditional open-source research yielded limited results. Many potential sources had either passed away or were untraceable. The goal was to find surviving family members, former friends, associates, and even individuals connected to the victims who could contribute to the storytelling.

Approach

1. Historical & archival research

• Conducted deep-dive ancestry investigations, birth, death, and marriage record searches to trace surviving family members.
• Analysed historical documents, newspaper archives, and legal records to track movements and uncover previously unreported details.

2. Network tracing & intelligence gathering

• Investigated the serial killer’s past associates, friends, and acquaintances using advanced research techniques.
• Cross-referenced police reports, public records, and international databases to piece together timelines and connections.

3. Surveillance & on-the-ground enquiries

• Dispatched field agents to conduct discreet inquiries in locations where the subject had lived and committed crimes.
• Interviewed local sources, historians, and law enforcement contacts to gain deeper insights into the case.

4. Digital & social media analysis

• Examined digital footprints and traced potential relatives or associates through online platforms.
• Utilised forensic techniques to uncover hidden or deleted online content that could provide new leads.