Learning how to recognise the signs of catfishing can protect both your heart and personal information. Read on for 7 red flags that could mean you’re dealing with a catfish. 

1.  They avoid video calls 

One of the most telltale signs you’re being catfished is if the person you’ve met online consistently avoids video calls. They might claim their camera is broken, they have poor internet connection or offer other excuses.  

While there could be legitimate reasons for this, frequent avoidance should raise suspicion. Real individuals interested in genuine relationships will want to see you face-to-face, even if it’s through a screen.  

If someone persistently dodges video interactions, it might be because they cannot physically match the identity they’ve presented online. 

2. Their profile seems too good to be true 

When encountering an online profile, be wary if it appears unnaturally perfect. Catfish often create their profiles to resemble an ideal, using professional or highly edited images – so the photos look like model shoots.  

Also, their life stories might seem implausible, sounding a bit too dramatic or idyllic rather than an actual genuine experience. True profiles typically showcase a range of photos, including casual snapshots and are likely to share realistic personal anecdotes. If someone’s online presence feels too put-together, it could be a deliberate attempt to deceive you. 

3.  They ask for money 

A significant warning sign is when an online acquaintance requests money, particularly if you’ve never met. This request often comes under the guise of an urgent scenario, like a medical emergency or a financial crisis.  

And more often than not, is accompanied by emotional stories designed so you’ll feel sorry for them and make you ignore all rational judgment. Be cautious and remind yourself that real connections typically do not start with financial appeals. This tactic is a common strategy used by catfish to exploit trust and get your money. 

4.  Their stories don’t add up 

Be on the look-out for inconsistencies in an online acquaintance’s life stories. If they frequently change facts about their past, work or daily activities, it could mean they are lying.  

Real people have life stories that are coherent and consistent over time. If you spot inconsistencies, especially if they’re significant or about fundamental aspects of their identity, this could suggest they might be making most of it up.  

Always listen carefully and note any discrepancies – they could reveal that the person is not who they claim to be. 

5. They have very few friends or followers 

A social media profile with very few friends or followers, particularly if it has been active for some time, can be a sign of a fake account.  

Often, catfish create new profiles to carry out their deception and may not have a large network of interactions. A genuine account typically has connections and a history of interactions that reflect real-life relationships and activities.  

Lack of these could mean their profile has been created to make sure you are misled.   

6. They are too forward or flirty 

When someone is excessively flirty or moves the relationship along too quickly, it could be a strategy used by catfish. They often use intense flattery and create a false sense of intimacy to manipulate your emotions.  

This rapid pace can distract their victim from noticing inconsistencies in their story or other warning signs. So, be cautious if someone seems to be rushing emotional depth without a real-life meeting or a genuine friendship. 

7. They avoid personal questions 

If someone consistently avoids answering personal questions or changing the subject when you ask about their life, this could be a warning sign.  

Catfish might be vague about their background, occupation or living situation to avoid slipping up and revealing inconsistencies. Genuine individuals are usually more open and willing to share details about themselves. 

Secure your online relationships with M19 Solutions 

Ensure your online safety by being observant and following your gut feelings to steer clear of catfishing. When interactions seem dubious, err on the side of caution. If something feels off, it probably is. 

For support in validating your online relationships, our team of private investigators in Manchester can help with professional catfish investigations. We offer specialised assistance to help you uncover and understand the reality behind your online connections. 

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A pivotal question that arises in legal circles is: “Can the evidence collected by private investigators be legitimately used in court?”

This blog delves into the legalities and practicalities of utilising private investigator evidence in the UK judicial system, a topic that intertwines the threads of law, privacy and ethical investigation.

The role of private investigators in the UK

In the UK, private investigators undertake various investigative tasks, ranging from personal matters to corporate issues. They must strictly adhere to legal standards, particularly regarding privacy and data protection.

Their role, often misconstrued in popular media, is constrained by the same legalities that apply to ordinary citizens, ensuring their methods of evidence gathering are lawful and ethical. Understanding these boundaries is essential, especially when the collected evidence is intended for court use.

We have delved deeper into what can and can’t be done in this article: What Can a Private Investigator Do Legally in the UK?

Legal framework governing evidence in UK courts

Strict legal standards in the UK govern the court’s admissibility of evidence. These standards apply to all evidence, including that collected by private investigators. The key consideration is whether the evidence has been obtained legally and ethically.

This means adherence to privacy laws and the Human Rights Act, which protects individuals’ right to a private life. Evidence obtained through illegal means, such as hacking or trespassing, is likely to be deemed inadmissible.

Additionally, the manner in which the evidence is collected and handled can also impact its admissibility in court proceedings.

Case studies and precedents

The use of evidence gathered by private investigators in UK courts has been shaped by various case studies and legal precedents. These instances demonstrate how courts have handled such evidence, often focusing on its acquisition method. For example, evidence obtained through lawful surveillance or public information gathering has been deemed admissible, provided it respects privacy and legal norms.

Conversely, cases where investigators have overstepped legal boundaries offer a cautionary tale about the limits of acceptable investigation practices. These precedents play a crucial role in guiding current and future uses of private investigator evidence in legal settings.

Unveiling the verdict on private detective evidence

The use of evidence from private investigators in UK courts is a nuanced issue. While such evidence can be powerful, its admissibility hinges on lawful and ethical collection methods. Legal precedents and case studies provide guidance but each situation is unique and must be assessed on its own merits.

Understanding the balance between effective investigation and respecting legal and ethical boundaries is key for those considering the use of private investigator evidence in legal proceedings. This understanding is crucial in ensuring that justice is served while upholding the principles of law.

Get expert support from M19 Solutions

Navigating the complexities of legal evidence, especially involving private investigators, can be daunting. If you’re facing such challenges, M19 Solutions is here to help. Our team of Manchester-based private investigators can provide comprehensive support and guidance in understanding, utilising and sourcing evidence effectively in court.

Don’t navigate these intricate legal waters alone. Contact M19 Solutions today to ensure your case is built on solid, admissible evidence.

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Whatever your motivation, the journey of family tracing can be both thrilling and challenging. This is where private investigators come into play. In this blog post, we’ll explore what private investigators do and how their expertise can help you trace your family.

What does a Private Investigator do?

Private investigators, often referred to as PIs, are professionals who specialise in gathering information and uncovering facts for their clients. They are skilled in conducting thorough research, utilizing various techniques and employing their expertise to find answers.

Here’s a closer look at what private investigators do:

Research and data collection

Private investigators are meticulous researchers. They can dig deep into various public and private records, such as birth and death certificates, marriage records, census data and more. They know where and how to access these records, often discovering valuable information that might be elusive to the average person.

Interviewing and surveillance

Skilled investigators are experts at interviewing people who might have useful information about your family. They can find and talk to relatives, friends and acquaintances, and if necessary, conduct discreet surveillance to learn more.

Genealogy expertise

Many private investigators have a background in genealogy or a strong understanding of family history research. They can connect the dots between different pieces of information and construct comprehensive family trees.

How can a Private Investigator help you trace your family?

Now that we’ve explored what private investigators do, let’s look at how their expertise can assist you in tracing your family history:

Overcoming roadblocks

Genealogical research can often hit dead ends, with missing records or ancestors that seem impossible to track down. Private investigators are skilled at navigating these obstacles, finding alternative sources and overcoming challenges that might have stumped amateur researchers.

Finding missing relatives

The statistics on missing people in the UK are a matter of concern, with thousands of individuals reported missing each year. According to the charity, Missing People, around 170,000 missing reports are filed annually. While the majority of these cases are resolved relatively quickly, a significant number remain open for extended periods, causing distress to families and friends.

If you’re looking for a missing family member, a private investigator has the tools to track people down who may have either moved or changed their name.

Building comprehensive family trees

Private investigators have the skills and resources to construct extensive family trees that go beyond what you might find on your own. These detailed genealogical charts can provide a complete picture of your family’s lineage. With their expertise, they can uncover hidden connections and fill in missing gaps in your family history.

Tracing your family with the experts

If you’re looking for a private investigator in Manchester, M19 Solutions, a trusted name in the field, can provide the expertise and support you need.

Our team of experienced private investigators use advanced techniques to gather the information you require, whether you’re a business or an individual. Your privacy is our top priority, and we offer a free consultation with no obligations. Contact us today to get the help and answers you need.

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Let’s have a look at why landlords might need to hire a PI and the legal aspects they need to consider.

Why would a landlord need a private investigator?

The main reason is to check on new tenants. Landlords want to be sure they’re renting to reliable people and private investigators can help find out more about them.

Additionally, if a landlord thinks a tenant is breaking the lease rules or doing something illegal, a PI can investigate this discreetly and legally. This can help landlords feel more secure about who’s renting their property and how it’s being used.

Legal considerations for landlords

So, the big question is, can landlords legally hire private investigators? The answer is yes, but it does depend on a few factors – as explored below.

Different laws for each region

The rules about landlords hiring private investigators change depending on location. In most places, landlords can hire them, but they have to follow certain rules. These rules could include what kind of observing is okay, how they can gather information and making sure they respect the tenant’s privacy.

Also, some places might require private investigators to have a licence and have more specific regulations. Landlords need to understand and follow these local laws to make sure they’re using private investigators the right way.

Navigating privacy laws

The thorny issue of privacy laws is at the heart of this debate. Landlords need to tread carefully here. A PI can do background checks or observe public behaviours, but they can’t overstep into personal areas. For example, email hacking, phone tapping or unauthorised entry into a tenant’s space.

Following fair housing laws

Fair housing laws are another key legal point. Landlords can’t use private investigators to discriminate against anyone. All investigations have to be done fairly, without singling out tenants because of their race, gender or other personal traits. It’s all about being fair and treating everyone equally.

Understanding tenant-landlord agreements

In the lease agreement between a tenant and a landlord, there might be specific rules about conducting investigations. It’s important for landlords to follow these rules carefully and ensure that any investigations they carry out are agreed in the lease. This helps avoid any legal issues or misunderstandings.

Ensuring legal purposes

Landlords should only hire private investigators for legal reasons that are directly linked to the rental agreement. Using them for anything else could cause legal problems. It’s important to keep investigations focused and relevant to the rental property.

Expert PIs in Greater Manchester

Are you a landlord looking for a reliable private investigator in Manchester? M19 Solutions is here to help. We are a professional team working across all areas in Greater Manchester, trained in the latest techniques to get the background information and evidence you need.

Our service is completely confidential and discreet. For a free consultation and a no-obligation quote, get in touch.

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Read on for a brief history of this interesting career choice and it’s real-life Sherlocks.

The original PI – Eugène Vidocq

In the early 19th century, Paris was the city of lights, love, and … private investigation. A former criminal turned crime-fighter, Eugene Vidocq is considered the father of modern private investigators. In 1833, he founded the first known private detective agency, “Le Bureau des Renseignements.’

His methods were revolutionary as he maintained a network of informants and used his special talent in disguise for undercover work. Vidocq even created the first recorded use of ballistics in solving a case. His life’s work was known to have inspired literary giants like Edgar Allan Poe and Victor Hugo and he proved that badges weren’t needed to solve mysteries.

Across the pond – The Pinkerton National Detective Agency

Across the pond in 1850s America, The Pinkerton National Detective Agency was formed. Initially, focusing on railway theft cases, Allan Pinkerton took private investigation to new heights. The Pinkerton Agency became famous (or infamous, depending on who you ask) for its role in labour disputes, spy work during the Civil War and even for foiling an assassination plot against Abraham Lincoln!

They became synonymous with private investigation, their iconic logo, an eye with the motto “We Never Sleep,” coining the term “private eye.” They showed that private investigation wasn’t just for Europeans either, it had a huge role in shaping American history too.

The evolution of modern PIs: tech, techniques and tenacity

Fast forward to today, and the world of private investigation has hugely progressed. Today’s PIs are more than just shadowy figures in trench coats; they are highly skilled professionals. However, despite this evolution, modern PIs still appreciate the methods of old-school sleuthing and combine them with modern cutting-edge technology and up-to-date legal standards to get results.

They tackle a wide range of cases, from missing persons to corporate espionage, using everything from DNA analysis to digital forensics. The essence of the profession, however, is the same as it’s ever been – a relentless pursuit of the truth.

Need a PI in Manchester? We’ve got you covered!

From the shadowy streets of Paris to the bustle of modern Manchester, Private Investigators have been unravelling mysteries for centuries.

And speaking of Manchester, if you’re looking for help from a professional private investigator in the city, look no further than M19 Solutions. Regardless of whether you’re facing personal challenges or complex business issues, our team offers the perfect combination of investigative skills to get the job done. Contact us to schedule a consultation or for free, discreet, no-obligation advice.

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This is where private investigators come in – professionals who specialise in finding accurate information for a variety of purposes.

What is a Private Investigator?

Private investigators are popular figures in the realm of fiction. Because of this, the real-world profession is often misunderstood. In short, a private investigator is a person who has been trained and licensed to conduct investigations on behalf of a company or individual. Within the corporate space, they will often use a wide range of skills to uncover information and facts. They will then present that information to the company or individual in question.

You’ll find that private investigators come from a variety of backgrounds. They tend to specialise in background checks, skip tracing and especially fraud investigation. They will understand legal boundaries well, ensuring they conduct their investigations on the right side of the law.

Why would you need a private investigator as a company?

Companies employ private investigators for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the most common reasons why you might need one:

1. Employee Misconduct

There are many instances of employee misconduct where a private investigator might be needed. These can include harassment, fraud or embezzlement. All these issues can have serious consequences if not explored, so it can be a good idea to employ a private investigator to gather accurate information.

2. Security Assessments

If you have worries about the digital security of your business, a private investigator can give you more insight. This is a more specialised form of investigator, but they will be able to identify weak points within your security processes and then find ways to help you strengthen them.

3. Background Checks

Let’s say you want to hire an individual in an important or sensitive position. If this is the case, then you may need to conduct thorough background checks. A private investigator can find ways to do this, ensuring the process is both legal and comprehensive.

4. Due Diligence

If your company is taking a big step into partnership, then it can be important to understand the total background of the people you’re going to be working with. A private investigator will be able to find the complete backgrounds of potential partners and outline any undisclosed legal issues for you to consider.

Why might you need a private investigator as an individual?

Individuals may also find themselves in need of a private investigator. Here are some of the most common situations where it might be worth hiring a private investigator:

1. Catfishing Investigations

Dating apps and websites have become increasingly popular in the 21^st century. As positive as online relationships can be, there has been a recent upsurge in fraud. This is why many people employ private investigators to find out if the person they’re speaking to is a real person – or a fraud.

2. Matrimonial Investigations

Some individuals suspect infidelity in their marriage or relationship. Private investigators are able to conduct comprehensive, discreet and legal investigations into a person’s partner. This can give them peace of mind or the facts they need to take up the issue with their partner and move on.

Find expert private investigators in Manchester

Are you searching for an expert private investigator in Manchester? At M19 Solutions, we are a local team of surveillance and investigation professionals. Combining specialist training and years of experience with cutting-edge investigation techniques, we will be able to find the information you’re looking for.

Whether you are part of a corporation or an individual, our team will get to work finding the information you need. We guarantee everything will be 100% confidential and discreet. Contact us today to set up a free consultation and get a no-obligation quote.

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Often referred to as PIs or private investigators, these professionals are hired to gather information and conduct investigations on behalf of individuals, businesses, or legal bodies.

So read on for the top-secret buffet of information that modern private investigators have at their fingertips.

What do private investigators have access to?

Private investigators have access to public and company documents, as well as private databases, which can all assist them in their cases. Their access can vary depending on the specific laws and regulations they are working with, as well as the nature of the case they are working on.

Some of the tools and resources that private investigators can have access to include:

Public records

Private investigators often have access to public records such as property records, court records, marriage and divorce records, business licenses and other documents that are available to the general public.

Surveillance

PIs may conduct surveillance to observe and document the activities of individuals. This could involve following a person, monitoring their movements and gathering photographic or video evidence.

Online research

Private investigators can utilise various online resources to gather information about individuals, including social media platforms to help catfishing victims, online databases and public record websites.

Database access

Some PIs have access to specialised databases that contain information not readily available to the public. These databases may include criminal records, financial information and more.

Interviews and interrogations

Private investigators may interview witnesses, friends, family members, and other relevant parties to gather information and insights related to a case.

Background checks

PIs can conduct thorough background checks on individuals to uncover details about their personal, professional and financial history.

Networking

Experienced private investigators often have a network of contacts within law enforcement, legal circles and other relevant industries that they can tap into for information or assistance.

It’s important to note that the scope of a private investigator’s access can be limited by legal and ethical boundaries. PI’s must adhere to privacy laws and regulations, and their methods should not involve illegal activities such as hacking, trespassing, or invasion of privacy.

It’s also advisable for individuals seeking the services of a private investigator to research their credentials, experience and reputation before hiring them.

Unlocking answers for clients in Manchester & beyond

If you require the services of a private investigator in Manchester or the surrounding areas, contact the professionals at M19 Solutions.

Our staff are highly skilled, with years of experience in the military or police. We have a wealth of knowledge and can give the professional support you’re looking for, whether for personal or business reasons.

Contact us today for a private consultation.

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From computer forensics to web activity monitoring, cyber espionage and social media investigations, we will explore all the different areas where these experts excel. We’ll also discuss when it is appropriate to hire a digital private investigator and the training required to embark on this exciting career path.

Get ready to uncover the secrets behind the work of these modern-day detectives…

What is a digital private investigator?

While it might sound like something from the movies, a digital private investigator is simply a specialist who investigates digital activities and collects electronic evidence using advanced technology. They assist with cases involving cybercrime, fraud, online harassment and intellectual property theft. Their expertise includes data recovery, forensic analysis, surveillance and online monitoring.

What does a digital private investigator do?

A digital private investigator is an expert in collecting and analysing digital evidence. They use advanced methods to trace online footprints, conduct research and uncover information for both individuals and corporate cases. Utilising specialised tools, they retrieve data from computers, smartphones, social media accounts and other digital platforms.

Computer forensics

Computer forensics is a crucial area of expertise for a digital private investigator. These professionals conduct thorough investigations and gather key evidence relating to digital activities – analysing and recovering valuable data from a range of electronic devices.

The goal is to uncover evidence of cybercrime, online fraud, intellectual property theft and other illegal activities. Additionally, digital private investigators can assist in cases involving electronic surveillance, data breaches or the recovery of deleted or hidden information. By leveraging their knowledge of computer forensics, they play a vital role in modern investigations.

Web activity

A digital private investigator specialises in gathering information from online sources. They have the expertise to track and monitor web activity, including browsing history, social media interactions and email communications. By utilising specific software and techniques, they can uncover hidden information and track online behaviour.

Digital private investigators are invaluable in various investigations, such as background checks, fraud investigations and cybercrime cases. With their skills in data analysis, they provide detailed reports based on their findings, ensuring that valuable insights are delivered to clients.

Cyber espionage and hacks

Cyber espionage and hacking are major concerns in today’s digital landscape. A digital private investigator can also investigate cybercrime, cybersecurity breaches and digital threats. They utilise advanced methods and tools to track down hackers, gather digital evidence and prevent future attacks.

Cyber espionage involves the unauthorised access, theft or manipulation of sensitive digital information for various gains. Digital private investigators play a crucial role in identifying and stopping cyber espionage activities through thorough investigations and implementing security measures. They work closely with law enforcement agencies, businesses and individuals to ensure the protection of digital assets and privacy.

Social media

Digital private investigators can also collect information and evidence from social media platforms. Through various techniques, they analyse social media profiles, posts and interactions to uncover relevant information. These skilled investigators can reveal hidden connections, identify potential witnesses or suspects and gather evidence for legal cases.

Additionally, they assist with background checks, online reputation management and investigations related to cybercrime. By leveraging their expertise in digital forensics and cybersecurity, digital private investigators play a vital role in uncovering crucial information from the vast world of social media.

Background investigators

Background investigators are a specialised category of digital private investigators who focus on conducting comprehensive background checks on individuals. They possess expertise in online investigations, gathering digital evidence and analysing digital data. These investigators are often hired to delve into cybercrimes, online harassment, identity theft and other digital offenses.

To compile detailed background reports, they search public records, scrutinise social media profiles and investigate other online sources. Background investigators can be found working in private investigation firms, law enforcement agencies or as freelance investigators, utilising their skills and resources to uncover important information.

Mobile phone data

Mobile phone data analysis is a crucial aspect of a digital private investigator’s work. They can retrieve and analyse various types of data from mobile phones, including call logs, text messages, emails, social media activity and GPS location information. This wealth of information can be used as evidence in infidelity investigations, criminal cases or corporate internal investigations. Digital private investigators ensure the admissibility of the evidence in court by maintaining chain of custody. By leveraging their expertise in data analysis, they play a vital role in modern investigations.

When to hire a digital private investigator

When should you consider hiring a digital private investigator? There are several situations where their expertise can be invaluable. Suspicion of infidelity, cyberbullying, fraud or intellectual property theft are all compelling reasons to seek the assistance of a digital private investigator.

These professionals have the skills and tools necessary to track online activities, recover deleted data and analyse digital evidence. By hiring a digital private investigator, you can save time and benefit from unbiased and professional results. Just remember to research and choose a reputable and licensed investigator for your case.

Training needed to become a digital private investigator

To become a digital private investigator, one must have a solid understanding of digital forensics and computer science. This involves gaining knowledge in cybercrime and cybersecurity, as well as proficiency in data recovery and analysis. Familiarity with legal and ethical guidelines for conducting investigations is crucial, as is training in investigative techniques specific to digital platforms and technologies.

By acquiring these skills and expertise, aspiring digital private investigators can effectively navigate the complexities of modern investigations and handle various types of cases, including those involving infidelity, cyber espionage, employment disputes and criminal activity.

Digital private investigators in Manchester

Digital private investigators play a crucial role in today’s technologically advanced world. From uncovering cybercrimes to collecting evidence for legal cases, their expertise in computer forensics, web activity tracking, social media analysis and more is invaluable.

If you find yourself in need of a digital private investigator near you, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team at M19 Solutions. Based in Manchester, we have a wealth of experience in digital private investigation. Whether it’s for personal or business reasons, we can provide the professional assistance you require. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

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Manchester crime rate explained

Let’s start with the current crime rate for Manchester, which is 126.7 crimes for every thousand people living there. For clarity, figures are generally quantified per thousand people, as this provides a rate of crime rather than just a total number.

126.7 was the rate for April 2021 to March 2022, also known as the 2021-22 reporting year. In previous years, the crime rate was as follows:

• 2020-21 – 107.9
• 2019-20 – 98.2
• 2018-19 – 116.7
• 2017-18 – 122.6
• 2016-17 – 105.9
• 2015-16 – 81.1

As you can see, the Manchester crime rate in 2021-22 was an increase from 2020-21 and the highest figure in the recorded period from 2015.

How does Manchester’s crime rate compare to other cities?

Crime rates don’t mean anything on their own. After all, what is the ‘norm’ for a crime rate? To put Manchester’s figures into context, London has a lower crime rate of 92.8 offences per thousand people in 2021-22. Does that mean London is safer than Manchester? Not necessarily. The capital is much more densely populated, meaning the rate is slightly misleading.

Here are the figures for other English cities in 2021-22:

• Leeds & Bradford – 125.5
• Birmingham – 123
• Liverpool – 115.6
• Sheffield – 105
• Newcastle & Sunderland – 92

Manchester vs Greater Manchester

It’s worth noting that the available figures are from police forces with large cities in their territories. As such, Liverpool’s crime rate is for all areas covered by Merseyside police. Similarly, the Manchester crime rate is actually for the whole of Greater Manchester, which is covered by Greater Manchester Police

As you might expect, the figure for the city centre is a little higher than the region’s average, with 169.37 for Manchester specifically, followed by towns such as Rochdale, Bolton and Oldham on slightly lower figures. You can find out more in our blog post on Manchester crime rates by area.

Again, to put this into context, the City of Westminster in central London has a much higher crime rate of 281.41.

At the other end of the scale, there are also some significantly safer areas to live in Manchester based on crime, including:

• Sale
• Chorlton
• Didsbury

Crime rate in Manchester – key takeaways

What is the crime rate in Manchester?

It varies year upon year, typically ranging from 80 to 130.

Is this a high crime rate?

Manchester’s crime rate is generally higher than most other English cities, though central London’s rate is much worse.

How can I stay safe?

Check out our blog for more information on crime in Manchester. Or contact our team of private investigators for a range of professional investigation services in Manchester and across the UK.

The post What is the Crime Rate in Manchester? appeared first on M19 Solutions.

However, like any major city, it isn’t exempt from criminal activities. In this article, we will explore the overall crime statistics in Manchester, examine the crime rates in different areas, consider the underlying socio-economic factors contributing to crime, and discuss preventative measures against crime.

Overall crime statistics in Manchester

According to UK Crime Statistics taken between Aug 2018 – Aug 2022, the most prolific type of crime in Manchester during that period was violent crime, with 97,948 cases. Coming in second was anti-social behaviour with 56,571 cases. Here are the other categories in descending order.

1. Public order – 36,726
2. Criminal damage and arson – 31,442
3. Vehicle crime – 29,149
4. Burglary – 26,691
5. Other theft – 24,290
6. Shoplifting – 16,065
7. Other crime – 7,040
8. Theft from the person – 6,888
9. Robbery – 6,744
10. Drugs – 5,714
11. Bike theft – 3,488

One source tracking the number of police-recorded offences by Greater Manchester Police from 2015-2022 found that crime in Manchester was at its lowest rate between 2015-2016, with 225,407 offences. The highest point was 2021-2022 with 361,018 offences.

According to the data, there was a steady rise between 2015-2016 – 2017-2018. Following a slight dip in 2018-2019, police reported that crime fell to its lowest during the height of the Coronavirus Pandemic in 2019-2020, and it has grown ever since.

Manchester crime rates by area

Below, we’ve put together a chart showing the crime rates per area in Greater Manchester. Figures are per thousand residents in 2022, using data from the Office of National Statistics and Greater Manchester Police.

From these figures, you can see that central Manchester holds the highest crime rate of the areas taken into consideration. However, the source notes other factors that may play into this such as a large police presence and CCTV coverage which may lead to a disproportionate rate of offences being recorded by the police.

A closer look at the statistics

It is important to note that criminal activity is unquestionably linked with socio-economic pressures. Poverty is accepted as one of, if not the main predictor of crime, so it is important to examine the rates of poverty and unemployment in a given area when seeking to understand the crime rates.

According to one article published in Manchester World in 2022, Greater Manchester “has a higher unemployment rate than the national average and unemployment has risen more markedly in the city-region since 2019 compared to England as a whole.”

The same source notes that the rates of child poverty were high, with 1 in four young people (144,770 children) living in poverty. When these factors are taken into consideration, it is easier to understand the rising rates of crime in Manchester.

Preventative measures against crime in Manchester
‘Greater Manchester’s plan for safer, stronger communities’ was published in 2018. It states that since 2010, more than £200 million in cuts had been made to Greater Manchester Police by the central government.

It underlines that the police force “can’t act alone” in its efforts to tackle to the ever-evolving crime culture in Manchester and that it would “require a response not just from the police, but from all public agencies, the voluntary sector, and local people.”

As such, the report lists a series of attitudes and initiatives intended to tackle varying sectors of crime. The City of Manchester also has a series of programs intended to better educate its citizens on different forms of crime and crime prevention.

Crime in Manchester – a summary

Manchester has a higher-than-average crime rate that appears to be on the rise. What’s more, despite increasing pressures on Greater Manchester Police, they seem ill-equip to tackle the underlying socio-economic factors linked to the rising crime rate. Factors such as poverty and unemployment play crucial roles in the issue and need to be addressed holistically.

If you’d like to know more about Manchester, read this guide: Where are the Safest Places to Live in Manchester?

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