Private Investigator Says Cheating Men Always Slip Up in This One Surprising Way

If you’ve ever found yourself suspicious of your partner but can’t afford to hire a private investigator, there may be one clear sign to watch for that could reveal whether or not they’re being unfaithful.

In a world full of dating warnings, red flags, and failed relationship advice, staying single can sometimes feel like the safer option. From new dating trends like the so-called “slippery slope,” where boundaries blur and commitment erodes, to full-on betrayal, the signs of a failing relationship aren’t always obvious.

You might be tempted to keep an eye on your partner’s phone habits or start reading into their every move. But even if you’re suspicious, accusing someone without solid proof can backfire in a big way.

That’s where insight from professionals can help. Connecticut-based private investigator Ray Ranno has spent years tailing suspected cheaters. In his experience, there’s one behavior men often repeat right before they meet up with someone they’re hiding from their partner.

Ranno explained that during his surveillance of male clients suspected of cheating, he noticed a consistent pattern in their actions.

“They always do the same thing,” he said, hinting at a telltale behavior that regularly precedes their secret rendezvous.

While every case is unique, Ranno's observation suggests that even the most careful cheaters tend to fall into predictable routines, and noticing that pattern might be all it takes to uncover the truth.

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“They always do the same thing.”

Ranno Investigative Service

Although private investigator Ray Ranno admits that stakeouts can often be uneventful, things get more interesting when certain patterns begin to emerge, allowing him to anticipate what’s likely to happen next.

During an appearance on the Locked In with Ian Bick podcast earlier this year, Ranno shared his professional insights into catching cheaters in the act.

“If a guy's going to pick up his sweetie on the side, he wants a clean car,” Ranno said.

According to him, it’s a common move. He often sees men make a quick stop at the car wash before heading off to meet someone they’re keeping secret from their partner.

“As soon as somebody goes to the car wash, I think, ‘Ha ha, what's next?’” he continued. “It’s amazing how they do that. Women not so much. Women don't do it as often because they usually jump in the guy's car; men always want to drive. It's very rare that I see a guy jump into a female's car.”

After the suspected couple meets, that’s when Ranno steps in to collect the evidence his client has paid for—whether it’s photos, video footage, or simply confirming suspicions.

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Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a relationship therapist and author, highlights that infidelity often stems from unmet emotional needs. She emphasizes that communication breakdowns lead partners to seek fulfillment outside the relationship, creating a cycle of pain and betrayal.

According to Solomon, recognizing and addressing these needs early can prevent infidelity. She advises couples to engage in regular, honest conversations about their feelings and expectations. Building a strong emotional foundation can create a safer space where both partners feel valued and secure.

It's not the phone that gives them away...

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Ranno also took a moment to debunk the outdated image of a private investigator lurking in a car, wearing a fedora and trench coat, snapping photos from behind the wheel.

Instead, he described the high-tech tools he now uses to gather evidence—gadgets that help him blend seamlessly into everyday settings.

While he still carries a traditional long-lens camera for capturing photos and videos from a distance, Ranno revealed that one of his favorite pieces of equipment is a fake coffee cup fitted with a hidden high-definition camera.

“If I go into a coffee place or a supermarket, wherever I need to be, I just take the lid off, turn it on, put the cap on, and it looks like I'm walking around with a coffee. Meantime, I'm videotaping everything,” he explained.

Once the surveillance is complete, Ranno hands over the footage and images to his client, usually the person who suspects their partner is being unfaithful.

So, if you’re suspicious, it might be worth keeping an eye on your partner’s phone and car, too.

Dr. Ian Kerner, a well-known sex therapist, notes that infidelity is often coupled with emotional disconnection, which can manifest as subtle behavioral changes. He asserts that when individuals begin to withdraw emotionally, it may be a precursor to infidelity.

Kerner recommends couples to cultivate emotional intimacy through shared experiences and open dialogue. Simple practices like regular date nights or check-ins can help maintain connection and prevent drifting apart. By prioritizing emotional engagement, partners can create a more resilient bond.

Practical Steps for Healing

In summary, understanding the dynamics of infidelity can empower individuals to address underlying issues in their relationships. Experts like Dr. Solomon and Dr. Kerner suggest that effective communication and emotional intimacy are key to preventing betrayal. As partners work to fulfill each other's needs and maintain a connection, the likelihood of infidelity decreases significantly.

Ultimately, fostering a supportive environment where both partners feel heard and valued is essential for a healthy relationship. By actively engaging in the relationship, couples can build a stronger foundation that withstands the challenges of intimacy.