Skiptracing is done by collecting as much information as possible about the subject. The information is then analyzed, reduced, and verified. Sometimes the subject's current whereabouts are in the data, but are obfuscated by the sheer amount of information or disinformation. More often the data will be used to identify third parties that might be able to assist the process. This is where the job becomes more than mere research since one must often employ methods of social engineering to discreetly acquire information without compromising the situation. A common tactic involves calling or visiting former neighbors, employers or other known contacts to ask about the subject, sometimes under false or misleading pretenses. In most jurisdictions this deception, known as pretexting, is legal.[ci

Vrais functions differently from a typical collection agency. We are a judgment recovery specialist. Our group of research professionals is skilled at tracking down debtors and pursuing their assets to satisfy judgments. We do not waste resources by mailing invoices or making repeated phone calls like most collection agencies. We will never ask you for any money. We front all legal costs, and research and investigative fees (for debtor items such as bank accounts, employment income, credit reports, vehicle and vessel information, aircraft, and real property). Therefore, we are compensated solely on what is collected. And, with some of the best collection attorneys and asset investigators at our disposal, our chances of collecting monies far exceed that of a collection agency.