Answers to questions
Everything you wanted to know about lie detectors: a look at some common questions.
We rely exclusively on the methodologies of recognised international organisations such as the APA, BPS and EPA. There is no room in our work for marketing gimmicks or unrealistic expectations—only a scientific approach and strict adherence to professional protocols.
Quick Answers
Here are the 12 most frequently asked questions (FAQ)
About 90–120 minutes.
No, it is completely painless.
Comfortable clothing.
Yes, in moderate amounts.
They can wait outside.
Yes, provided standards are met.
Verbally — sometimes; report within 24h.
Completely. For the client only.
Yes, but the deposit is non-refundable.
Yes, for couples or groups.
Yes, lies [physiological responses] differ.
Yes, if the result is unclear.
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Accuracy and reliability
A scientific perspective on the reliability of polygraph testing: an objective assessment of testing effectiveness
Modern psychophysiological testing methods, carried out by certified experts, demonstrate impressive effectiveness. According to meta-analyses recognised by the American Polygraph Association (APA), the accuracy of a properly administered test ranges from 95% to 98%.
It is important to understand that, in the field of verifying truthfulness, there are no tools with an ‘absolute’ 100 per cent guarantee. However, when international protocols and methodologies are strictly adhered to, the probability of error is minimised, making the polygraph one of the most reliable methods of verifying information available today.
It is important to understand that a polygraph is merely a measuring instrument; it does not deliver verdicts. The final result depends on how the expert interprets the data obtained. The main risks lie in the methodology—inappropriate questions or poor organisation of the process—rather than in the technical reliability of the sensors.
More often than not, this is the result of simple ignorance or dealing with amateurs. The reliability of a polygraph test is inextricably linked to the expert’s professionalism and strict adherence to the methodology. A polygraph in the hands of a non-professional is like highly sophisticated diagnostic equipment in the hands of someone without medical training: the data is there, but it is impossible to interpret.
Organisations: Testing methods approved by leading global professional bodies:
APA (American Polygraph Association).
EPA (European Polygraph Association).
BPS (British Polygraph Society).
Various international forensic science institutes.
No. No single method of assessing a person offers an absolute guarantee—be it psychological tests, interviews or sworn testimony.
However, when used professionally, the polygraph remains one of the most accurate methods of verifying the accuracy of information currently available.
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Preparing for the test
Everything you need to know before your appointment
To achieve the most accurate results and ensure your comfort, we recommend following these guidelines:
Adequate Rest: Be sure to get a good night's sleep before the procedure.
Restrictions: Completely avoid consuming alcohol or any drugs at least 24 hours before the test.
Nutrition: Have a light meal; do not arrive on an empty stomach or after heavy eating.
Medications: Do not discontinue any prescribed medications. Just inform the expert during the preliminary interview about your current medication therapy.
Emotional State: Try to arrive on time and in a calm frame of mind.
Special Skills: No special "training" or practice is required to undergo the assessment.
No. Please continue taking your prescribed medication as usual. Just let your doctor know which medications you are taking during your preliminary consultation.
A slight feeling of nervousness is a normal physical reaction to the test. Professional equipment and an experienced specialist are able to distinguish between general anxiety and specific reactions to the questions. Before the main part of the test begins, a calibration is carried out to take into account your individual ‘baseline’ stress level.
We recommend avoiding caffeine and energy drinks for at least 3–4 hours before the procedure. Caffeine is a stimulant that increases the heart rate and can heighten the nervous system’s overall excitability, making it difficult to obtain accurate readings.
Choose clothing that is as comfortable and loose-fitting as possible, so as not to restrict your movement. Casual wear or a tracksuit is ideal. A light shirt or T-shirt is preferable to thick jumpers, as this ensures better contact between the sensors and your body.
You may be accompanied by someone, but during the test itself, it is recommended that only the participant and the specialist remain in the room. The presence of third parties (friends, relatives) is a distraction and is prohibited by the procedure protocol to ensure objectivity.
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The polygraph testing process
All stages of a polygraph (lie detector) test
On average, the procedure takes between 1.5 and 3 hours. This includes a preliminary consultation, setting up the equipment and the testing process itself. We do not recommend scheduling any important commitments immediately after the test, so that you can complete it without rushing.
Preliminary interview (30–40 mins): The examiner explains the process, reviews the case with you and draws up a list of questions.
Review of questions (10–15 mins): All questions are reviewed again to ensure that you fully understand them. There will be no surprises during the test.
Instrumental examination (30–45 mins): You are connected to the polygraph, and questions are asked in several rounds.
Data analysis (15–20 mins): The examiner analyses the physiological readings and prepares the final conclusions.
Yes, this is a mandatory requirement. To rule out random reactions and verify the reliability of the data, each question is asked at least two or three times across different cycles. This helps to distinguish a one-off reaction from a consistent psychophysiological response.
The standard protocol includes 3–4 key questions. Additionally, leading and neutral phrasing is used. An excessive number of topics distracts attention and reduces the quality of the analysis.
No, only questions that can be answered briefly with ‘yes’ or ‘no’ are required. Otherwise, the physiological data will be distorted and unsuitable for analysis.
No, it’s completely painless. The sensors simply record signals—they don’t emit any electrical discharges and don’t cause any discomfort.
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Technical facilities
How a lie detector works
Ribor monitors four key biometric indicators:
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Respiratory cycle: The frequency and amplitude of chest and abdominal breathing are analysed.
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Heart function: Continuous monitoring of heart rate and blood pressure.
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Skin electrical activity: Recording the slightest changes in palm moisture.
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Motor responses: Recording of micro-movements of the body (available in modern diagnostic systems).
We work exclusively with professional digital systems from global industry leaders: Lafayette, Stoelting and Rubicon. To ensure maximum accuracy of results, each device undergoes a mandatory technical inspection and calibration immediately before the procedure begins.
Absolutely. To ensure the integrity of the experiment, we use specially equipped rooms that are completely isolated from noise and unauthorised persons. Only in conditions of perfect external tranquillity can reliable psychophysiological readings be obtained.
In some cases, this may be possible provided that the testing protocol is followed. For the polygraph to function correctly, a room is required where external stimuli, extraneous noises and random interference that could affect the accuracy of the data are completely eliminated.
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Countermeasures and fraud detection
Is it really possible to outsmart a modern polygraph?
Thanks to our advanced software and the expertise of our specialists, it is almost impossible to do so. A polygraph records involuntary impulses from the autonomic nervous system. These biological signals occur automatically, and a person is unable to suppress or alter them through willpower.
Attempts to do this are known as countermeasures (for example, tensing the body or deliberately altering one’s breathing). It is important to understand that an experienced examiner is specifically trained to spot such anomalies. Rather than ‘helping’ oneself, such actions merely arouse further suspicion in the examiner.
Any interference with the process will be recorded by the equipment and noted in the final report. This gives the examiner grounds to declare the session invalid. We recommend that you answer honestly, as any attempts to cheat will only make matters worse for you.
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Results and reporting
What happens after you leave the polygraph examiner’s office
You will receive a structured document containing:
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A printout of all the body status graphs recorded during the test.
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An explanatory note from an expert on key points.
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A clear conclusion: ‘true’ or ‘false’.
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Confirmation of the high level of reliability of the data obtained.
Only the person who ordered and paid for the test. The only exception is where you give your explicit written consent for your data to be shared with third parties.
Yes, occasionally the verdict may be ‘inconclusive’. If this happens, the session can be repeated using a different set of questions, or a second opinion can be sought from another specialist to rule out human error and technical inaccuracies.
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Prices and Bookings
Complete transparency regarding pricing and the booking process
The cost of the valuation ranges from €350 to €850, depending on the region. The most affordable option is available in Madrid (€350), whilst in the Canary Islands the price reaches its maximum (€850), due to the logistical costs of sending a specialist. The current price list for your region is available on request.
The deposit serves as a guarantee of your booking and covers the initial costs of organising the event. The 30% deposit is non-refundable, except in cases where the specialist themselves declines to conduct the test. The final settlement is made once all the details of the case have been finally agreed.
Initial consultation, pre-test interview, comprehensive assessment, analysis of results, professional technical report and ongoing support. No hidden fees.
You may cancel your booking; however, the If you need to change the date or time of the session, this can be done without losing any funds by notifying us no later than 48 hours before the start (subject to availability in the schedule).
The full terms and conditions are governed by the company’s internal regulations on refunds and cancellations.
We go the extra mile for our customers and offer reduced rates for:
Testing of pairs within one working day.
Testing groups of individuals involved in a joint case.
Organising repeat or additional sessions at the same venue.
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Law and Ethics
Everything you need to know about the legality of the procedure and protecting your interests
The activity is entirely legitimate provided that two key conditions are met: the test subject must participate entirely of their own free will, and certified specialists must be involved. Furthermore, the process must strictly comply with the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
In the Spanish criminal justice system, polygraph results are generally not recognised as conclusive evidence. Nevertheless, they carry significant weight in civil disputes, private investigations, pre-trial settlement procedures (mediation) and in the conclusion of settlement agreements between the parties to a dispute.
Yes. Before the procedure begins, you must sign the informed consent form. This form sets out in detail the stages of the procedure, your legal rights and the conditions regarding strict confidentiality.
We guarantee strict compliance with European data protection standards in accordance with the GDPR. Your information is strictly confidential; it is used solely for testing purposes and will never be disclosed to third parties without your formal written consent. Please refer to our Data Protection Policy for further details.
We go the extra mile for our clients and offer reduced rates for:
Testing of pairs within one working day.
Testing groups of individuals involved in the same case.
Organising repeat or additional sessions at the same venue.
No. Any polygraph test must be strictly voluntary. No one — not the police, your employer or your partner — has the right to force you to undergo this test
Absolutely. This data is accessible only to a select group of individuals with written authorisation. Disclosure of this information is considered a serious breach of ethics and a potential offence. Please read our Code of Ethics.
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Do you have any questions?
We offer free, anonymous consultations. Our experts will assess your situation and advise you on whether a polygraph test is suitable for you.