One of our clients received an SMS message, threatening blackmail, by placing
compromising information into the public domain. They were asking for several million euros. The client wanted those responsible, identified and dealt with without bringing the matter into the public domain. Investigation Enquiries in relation to the phone number associated with the messages. Only identified, the likely service provider, country of origin and that the number was from a range associated with ‘pay as you go’ services. The blackmailers were told that the client would not deal with them directly and they would have to go through an intermediary. A confidant of the client would act on his behalf, which they agreed too. As a consequence, an e-mail account with an appropriate name and mobile communications were set-up. That if searched for, would appear to be located in another country. After a number of SMS communications, some seeking proof of material. The blackmailers agreed to communicate via e-mail, sending attachments they were unable to send via the phone. This provided an IP address, that was traced to an Internet cafe they were using. Physical surveillance, at the café, timed to coincide with a phone call identified four individuals responsible. Local legislation allowed for an ex parte order to be obtained, which in turn meant that all copies of potentially damaging information could be acquired, along with all electronic storage devices. The blackmailers were also required to sign confidentiality agreements or risk the prospect of a lengthy term of imprisonment.