CORPORATE INVESTIGATIVE STRATEGIES

SM
What is FERRET?
FERRET is a collection of proprietary databases that Kessler International uses to gather information quickly
and reliably. It is an exhaustive digital search, available only through Kessler International, that hunts through
dozens of domestic and international databases, and hundreds of thousands of files. FERRET leaves no stone
unturned. It searches in every digital thicket and rabbit hole, and brings the information you need to light.
Cant I Get This Information Myself?
Only a portion of the databases covered by FERRET are available to the public. There are other significant
resources that only private investigators and law enforcement officials can access. These contain thousands
of civil and criminal case records, local, state and federal records, customs records, law enforcement and
corporate security records, to name just a few. And then there is our own private database, filled with
information gathered over years of investigation. We have files on many major and minor players involved
in white collar crimes, including counterfeiting and diversion schemes, drug cartels, and organized crime
syndicates. Moreover, we have listings of companies that have been banned from doing business with
government agencies.
Even if these files were made available to you, it would take weeks to sort through the information they
contain, but FERRET covers everything in a matter of minutes. Its fast, its reliable, and its simply the most
economical way to get the answers youre looking for.
As the worlds leading investigative consulting firm, Kessler
International understands the value of information. We recognize
that in order for information to be useful, it must be reliable,
it must be current, and it must be complete. Many executives
today make their decisions in the dark, relying on incomplete
information and limited resources. As a result, they make
mistakescostly mistakes which could have been avoided had
someone been a little more thorough and dug a little deeper.
Thats why we offer FERRET. When our clients tell us they need
all the facts uncovered, we tell them to put FERRET on the trail.
What Can I Use FERRET For?
Our clients use FERRET whenever they need accurate and complete information. The following are some of
the situations in which this information is especially useful:
Corporate Intelligence
Part of running a company efficiently involves keeping costs low. To achieve this, you may explore new, less
expensive suppliers and subcontractors. But be aware that there is an increasing risk of hiring a company with
a nefarious reputation. By requesting a FERRET search before you sign a contract, you can feel secure that
the changes you make are in fact for the better.
Diversion and Counterfeiting Protection
When an unknown distributor expresses interest in selling your products, either domestically or internationally,
we recommend a FERRET search. Diverters often set up phantom or shell businesses that exist only to
repackage and reship your goods to unintended markets for a profit. With FERRET, youll know if the names or
addresses youve been given have any ties to diversion or counterfeiting activity, and you can avoid doing
business with the wrong people.
Due Diligence
Underwritings, IPOs, acquisitions, foreign investments and lateral hires are some of the situations that require
complete and reliable information. Whatever subject your firm is exploring, FERRET can help. FERRET
quickly locates and retrieves the files you need to prove due diligence has been exercised. Litigations,
bankruptcy court records, US Tax Court records, property records, Consumer Affairs and Better Business
Bureau records, professional registrations and licenses, and SEC filings are just some of the many federal,
state and local resources covered by FERRET. In addition, there are proprietary files that comprise the
FERRET database that are unique to Kessler International. If the information you need has been placed on
record, FERRET will find it.
Is FERRET Expensive?
When you consider the time you save and the peace of mind you receive, FERRET is a bargain, and the
more you use it, the more you can save. Clients who require regular access to FERRET searches can take
advantage of a monthly subscription, which offers different pricing plans based on the number of searches you
would like. Of course, individual searches are also available at reasonable prices. Once you see how much
easier fact gathering is with FERRET, youll want to use it for all of your information needs.
Get a FERRET
The next time you have to make a business decision, call Kessler International and ask for a FERRET search.
FERRET provides you with complete and current information, and allows you to make your next move with con-
fidence and peace of mind.
Does this business really exist?
Has anyone ever filed a complaint against them?
Is it true he has a criminal record?
Who financed their expansion?
What is the businesss credit history?
Does the owner have ties to organized crime?
What do other businesses say about them?
Are they financially secure?
Have they been taken to court?
Are there affiliated entities to this business?
Do the officers of this company own their own businesses?
Are all of their licenses in order?
Is this business on any banned list?
Phone: 212.286.9100
Toll Free: 800.932.2221
Fax: 212.730.2433
Email: mail@investigation.com
www.investigation.com
World Headquarters
45 Rockefeller Plaza, 20th Floor
New York, NY 10111
OFFICES WORLDWIDE
Copyright 2004 by Kessler International