HKPS is often asked to serve documents but sometimes the client is not sure:
- Where the subject lives, or
- If the address is current
- If the subject has a business address
We have a good track record in locating hard-to-find individuals in Hong Kong. This is what constitutes a locate and serve.
What information do we need from you?
For a locate-and-serve, we ask you to first complete a comprehensive, two-page missing persons form. We request that you complete as much of this document as you can.
There are a range of questions from basic identifiers to known details of subject’s lifestyle. This could include topics such as close friends, club memberships and professional affiliations. Vehicle registration details are also useful.
Most importantly, we need at least one recent (if possible) photograph of the subject. If you have only old photographs, these are better than none at all.
If the subject has a name in Chinese, then please try to provide the characters.
How does HKPS begin a locate-and-serve?
We always begin with extensive online research in English, and if appropriate, in Chinese, both simplified and traditional. Public databases are limited in Hong Kong, but we also have access to several proprietary ones. Whatever the source, our researchers have experience in conducting extensive checks.
Notably, a “list of voters” is not available in Hong Kong. Data privacy and personal data are very well-protected in Hong Kong making locate-and-serves more complex than in other jurisdictions.
Data Privacy and Protection in Hong Kong
The Hong Kong Government is strict. As an example, it does not allow general searches of the Transport Department by Subject’s name. Likewise, for property (real-estate), it is not possible to conduct a general search of the Lands Registry by name. The Marine Department provides no information in respect of pleasure boat ownership.
Equally, it is not possible to obtain information from banks in Hong Kong without a search warrant/ court order. Mobile phone numbers require the same degree of authority to access ownership or call records.
