Stay competitive in the fast-paced world of private investigation. Whether you’re uncovering fraud, tracking leads, or managing multiple clients, the right software can make your work faster, smarter, and more secure.
Best Private Investigator Software Tools in 2025
In this guide, we’ll review the 7 best private investigator software tools, each designed to improve efficiency, organization, and data security — and show why CROSStrax stands out as the ultimate solution for modern investigators.
1. CROSStrax — Best Overall Private Investigator Software
CROSStrax is an all-in-one investigation case management software built by private investigators, for private investigators. It helps firms manage cases, automate reporting, and coordinate teams seamlessly.
Key Features
Transparent case management with organized notes, tasks, and reminders
Secure client portal for real-time case updates
Manage retainage, expenses, and invoices
Customizable report templates for consistent output
Built-in video time and date stamping
SOC 2 Type II–certified for advanced data security
Pricing:
CROSStrax offers five flexible plans (Entry to Enterprise) starting at $35/month, plus a 7-day free trial — no credit card required.
View Pricing
👉 Learn how CROSStrax simplifies your operations on our Case Management page.
2. Skopenow — Best for Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT)
Skopenow automates social media and open-source data collection.
It’s ideal for investigators who need to aggregate and analyze public information quickly.
Key Features
Scans posts, profiles, and interactions for connections
Identifies object and behavioral red flags
Converts data into visual formats such as heat maps and timelines
Auto-generates reports for client-ready presentations
3. Skip Smasher — Best for People Search and Skip Tracing
Skip Smasher offers access to over 5,500 public datasets and 3.5 billion records, helping investigators locate individuals and verify identities.
Key Features
Find addresses, phone numbers, and social security data
Search SSNs, validate identities, and perform “death checks”
Simple cloud interface with minimal training required
4. BeenVerified — Best for Background Checks
BeenVerified provides access to billions of public and private records to support background research.
Key Features
Search by name, email, phone, or social handle
View criminal history, bankruptcy, or traffic violations
Ideal for initial screening and personal investigations
5. Discreet — Best Mobile Surveillance App
Discreet lets investigators capture covert photos and videos directly from their mobile device while displaying a black screen for stealth.
Key Features
Shoot photos and videos discreetly
Save evidence to a private, password-protected gallery
Great for field investigators conducting surveillance
6. Hunch.ly — Best for Web Capture and Evidence Preservation
Hunch.ly automatically records every web page you visit during online research, ensuring you never lose digital evidence.
Key Features
Auto-captures and annotates web pages
Organizes research into client-ready reports
Perfect for digital investigations, OSINT, and cybercrime cases
7. Google Maps — Best Free Tool for Surveillance Planning
Even the simplest tools can be powerful in the right hands.
Google Maps helps investigators plan routes, identify choke points, and optimize surveillance coverage.
Key Features
Plan routes with street, satellite, and hybrid views
Visualize terrain, obstacles, and exits
Use real-time traffic data to minimize exposure and save time
Best Private Investigator Software Options: Best Private Investigator App & Private Investigator Tools Online
When exploring the best private investigator app and private investigator tools online, consider the type of platform that fits your workflow, your budget, and your team’s needs.
Desktop software continues to serve detectives who prefer local control. While many legacy tools offer robust case file organization, basic client management, and report generation, they may lack mobile features or secure cloud access. Freeware options exist but tend to be limited—ideal for solo practitioners on a budget—but may fall short on collaboration and support.
Mobile apps are critical for fieldwork. These tools let investigators capture notes, photos, GPS logs, and evidence on the fly. However, standalone apps may lack deeper case management features, pushing professionals to rely on multiple platforms to handle their workload effectively.
Cloud-based investigation tools bring powerful integration, real-time access, and enhanced security to the table—and here, CROSStrax stands out. This case management platform merges secure cloud operations with key investigative capabilities: centralized case tracking, invoicing, reporting, customizable templates, and real-time GPS tracking built into its mobile app. Its SOC 2 Type II–certified security, flexible customization, and integrations (like QuickBooks and Zapier) make it a standout among subscription tools.
While no truly “freeware” cloud alternatives offer comparable depth, CROSStrax also provides a free trial to test out its full feature set.
Why Private Investigators Should Use Software Tools
Private investigators need to embrace technology to stay relevant. Software tools offer tremendous capabilities, enabling investigators to stay several steps ahead in their cases. Here are 5 benefits of integrating software tools into your investigative workflow:
• Enhance efficiency. Automate routine tasks, manage cases more effectively, and reduce time spent on administrative duties.
• Manage data. Securely store, access, and analyze large volumes of data, ensuring information is readily available when needed.
• Advance research capabilities. Leverage sophisticated databases and online research tools for deeper, more comprehensive background checks and research.
• Improve client communication. Use secure platforms for seamless and transparent communication with clients, including sharing updates and findings.
• Increase accuracy. Reduce human error through automated data analysis and reporting tools, ensuring high-quality, reliable results.
How to Choose the Best Private Investigator Software
Selecting the right software is a big deal for private investigators. The right technology can significantly increase efficiency and the success of their operations. However, the wrong choices can just be a waste of money.
You need to consider key factors that align with your specific needs and the nature of your investigations. Use the following criteria to find the most suitable private investigator software for your company.
Compatibility and Integration
Ensure the software integrates seamlessly with your existing tools and systems, minimizing disruption and learning curves. For example, your case management software should “talk to” your background check software. Any tool you choose should have a long list of integration partners.
User-Friendliness
Clunky, complex platforms will waste your time and frustrate you. Look for intuitive interfaces and ease of use to ensure you can leverage the software’s full potential without extensive training.
Security Features
Given the sensitivity of investigative work, prioritize software with robust encryption and data protection measures to safeguard client and case information.
Private investigators should look for software vendors that offer a SOC 2 Type II certification. This designation demonstrates effective information security controls for processing integrity and privacy.
Customization and Scalability
The software should be adaptable to your unique workflows and scalable to accommodate the growth of your operations.
Support and Updates
Choose tools that offer reliable customer support and regular updates to keep the software effective against evolving challenges in the investigative field.
Choose CROSStrax to be an Integral Part of Your Private Investigator Tech Stack
The right software can help you stay organized, save time, decrease errors, and better serve your clients. Whether you’re doing surveillance, reviewing large amounts of data, conducting forensic investigations, or trying to total out an accurate invoice, software tools give you the edge you need to manage it all.
CROSStrax understands what private investigators face. That’s why we created a feature-rich system that can keep information organized and close at hand. Our user-friendly platform gives you a way to manage your cases seamlessly, without taking lots of time and energy. Plus, with our video features, time and date stamps, and robust reports, you’ll never miss another billable minute.
With 25 years of experience and a SOC 2 Type II certification, you never have to worry about your data or client information being accessed or stolen from the CROSStrax platform.
Find out how CROSStrax can simplify your Case Management Today
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Private Investigator Software
What software do private investigators use?
Private investigators use a mix of private investigator software, mobile apps, and traditional tools to gather evidence. Common tools include case management platforms, background check software, GPS trackers, and online databases. Many also rely on private investigator apps for fieldwork, making it easier to capture photos, log notes, and update cases in real time.
What kind of trackers do private investigators use?
Investigators often use GPS tracking devices and surveillance apps to monitor vehicles or individuals. In digital investigations, they may use online tracking tools, social media monitoring software, and background check platforms. These trackers are integrated into many modern private investigator tools online, helping professionals collect accurate, time-stamped evidence.
How do private investigators use technology?
Technology is central to modern investigations. Private investigators use cloud-based investigation software, mobile apps, and online databases to streamline their work. With tools like background check software for private investigators, they can quickly verify identities, uncover records, and manage client cases. Technology also helps them collaborate with teams, protect sensitive data, and deliver detailed reports.
