Messaging your investigator
Send your investigator private, encrypted messages about your case. How replies reach you, what messages can hold, and the unverified-sender warning.
On this page
Where to find it
Each case has its own Messages tab, a private conversation between you and your investigator about that case. Use it for anything you’d otherwise text or email them about the case: a question about a report, a scheduling detail, a clarification.
How it works
- Type in Write a secure message and choose Send message.
- Messages are encrypted in your browser before they’re sent. PIToolkit can’t read them.
- Messages are text only. You can’t attach files at the moment.
- There’s no limit on how many messages you can send.
How you’ll know about a reply
You won’t get an email when your investigator replies. New messages show as unread the next time you open your portal, and your case page shows “New message from” your investigator’s firm. If you’re waiting on an answer, check back, or agree with your investigator on another way to let you know.
Your investigator is notified when you send them a message.
If a message can’t be verified
Every message is signed by the person who sent it, and your browser checks the signature. If you see Unverified sender — Couldn’t verify this came from your investigator, don’t act on that message. Contact your investigator by phone or your usual channel.
If you’re told “Your investigator’s security key has changed — contact them before sending”, check with them before you send anything.