Certified Cell Phone Examiner to Investigate and Recover Evidences

No matter what kind of mobile phone is used, whether it is a smart phone device or a common cell phone, it is basically used for call and messaging purposes.  All kinds of cell phones are playing a significant part as digital evidences in investigations regarding criminal and civil litigations.  The technology which has been used in these cell phones enables them to save each and every repository about personal information.  That saved data is referred to as solid evidence. With the help of cell phone forensics useful information from the cell phones can be obtained like call records, location, files, multimedia files and appointments that can be used as admissible evidence in all the legal proceedings.  A  Certified Cell Phone Examiner or a forensic expert team is deployed by private or government sector so as to categorize the useful information or evidences.

Private or government sector cell phone forensic investigators are trained in use of advanced forensic tools and have expertise in many techniques used to recover distinct kinds of evidences.  Additionally, investigators deal with the most stringent aspects of cell phone forensic evidence recovery, such as device’s flash memory analysis, even when the device is un-operational, broken, or when the analysis is not compatible with the forensic application.  

• Cell Phone Examiners extensively deal with assembling evidence from the cell phones in varied sorts:
• Records of Call History
• Recovery of Contact List/ Phone Book
• Recovery of Text Message / Determining receiver & sender and thus creating a timeline for events
• Recovery of To Do List
• Analysis of Cell Phone Chat/ Email
• Recovery of Multimedia Message
• Extracting Audios/Photos/Videos
• Tracing of  Social Networking Activities
• Data Extraction from Physical Memory/Sim Cards
• Access Encrypted Data & Back Up Files / Decode Data
• Detecting of Spyware/ Malware

The extent of cell phone forensic examination is broadly increasing in several investigation areas.   They  primarily follow  this investigative measure in  order to deal with white collar crimes like securities fraud, bankruptcy frauds, investment frauds,  bank frauds, Ponzi schemes,  identity thefts and serious offenses like homicides, child pornography, cyber bullying, stalking, and espionage. Cell phone examiners are proficient in recovering lost/deleted information or evidence from all sorts of cell phone models including array of high-tech smart phones such as Blackberry, Androids and iPhones.

ICFECI provide Cell Phone Examiners specialized in tracking transactions, social connections, appointment schedules, communication by third party applications, meetings and location trace with respect to the event’s timeline.   Cell Phone Examiners are experienced and well trained in performing as a professional witness in presenting digital/electronic evidence.

Cell Phone Examiners handle preservation, acquisition, and processing of evidence, in a forensically sound manner.  Evidence custody is maintained in full compliance with codes and rules of evidence.

5 STEPS TO CONDUCT A COMPUTER FORENSIC INVESTIGATION

The increase in criminal activities involving the use of electronics warrants a structured investigation of criminal and civil litigations by employing computer forensic analysis. Digital forensic analysis is a meticulous process of uncovering data/ evidence that is relevant to the successful resolution of a case. However, deploying digital forensics to aid investigation demands a team of experienced computer forensic analysts, high end digital forensic tools and equipment and an organized lab where evidence recovered can be converted to structured reports thus helping the effective representation of defendants during trials.

Here is a detailed view of the process that can help you understand its role, limitations and the activities involved if you are willing to pursue a career in the stream.

 

Selecting a Process of Investigation

Digital Forensic has been a part of investigation procedures since 1984 when officials started employing computer programs to uncover evidence hidden in electronics and digital formats. The process has evolved to become more organized, sophisticated and well equipped with latest tools and technologies. However, choosing a particular method of investigation is the duty of the digital forensic analyst. A messy process of analysis can lead to the accumulation of random data and inconclusive evidence thus directly affecting the outcome of a trial. It is important to construct a design plan and to choose appropriate tools and software to conduct the investigation and ensure that not a single step has been bypassed or ignored. 

Acquisition

Once the case study is completed and a strategy decided upon, the first basic step involves the acquisition of data/ evidence in the form of digital documents, videos, images, files, financial records, accounts, recent computer activity, browsing history, emails and social media messages. Computer forensic analysts are experts in finding evidence by recovering deleted files, emails, social media activities, tracking and monitoring transactions, tapping into servers and finding relevant data to support an investigation. 

 

Also a dedicated part of computer forensics involves retrieving information from cell phones in the form of call records, location information, phonebook details, text messages and other personal details like schedules, appointment details, videos and image files. In this phase the analysts ensure that the evidence has been retrieved using methodologies that abide by the law and are done with proper approval of authorizing personnel. 

Identification

This phase requires analysts to separate the relevant discovery in digital format and converting them into a form understood easily by laymen, judges and juries alike. All the retrieved data can be preserved in the form of raw digital data.  The raw data may then be culled and processed. The resulting data can then be organized producing well systematized reports using forensic tools.  Organization of the retrieved data is accomplished by using sophisticated forensic tools like Forensic Toolkit (FTK), Mobile Phone Examiner (MPE+) and dtSearch as efficient document search tools.   

 

The relevant data may be hosted on an evidence review platform, accessible via internet.

Evaluation

This is the most important phase of digital forensic investigation which decides whether authentic and conclusive evidence has been discovered and subsequently determines the outcome of the litigation. The forensic analysts strive to find whether the information obtained is legitimate evidence and whether it can be presented during a trial. The components identified and preserved during the previous phases are correlated, a timeline of events is established and an inference is drawn that is relevant to the case and provides sufficient support in favor of the defendant. The Evaluation phase is an important element of effective representation of the client since it directly affects the successful resolution of a case. 

Admission

The carefully constructed reports and material evidence are of no use if they are discarded in a court of law as "inadmissible evidence". Therefore it is imperative that the proofs have been obtained using legal means, with permission from the authorizing entity, and the evidence is relevant. This factor will lend reliability to the evidence especially if it has been retrieved by a Certified Computer Forensic Examiner and ensure that the evidence is admissible at trial. 

Computer Forensic Investigation is a process which requires expertise and years of experience and desired results can be achieved only by following a well defined strategy.

ROLE OF A COMPUTER FORENSIC EXAMINER IN AN INVESTIGATION

Electronic and digital devices have the scope of storing a vast amount of information regarding a person’s personal and professional life.  It is a reliable repository of crucial information that needs to be extracted and presented to verify or nullify the events in a legal proceeding. Digital Media & Storage Devices including computers, laptops and tablets becoming a potential source of evidence in all litigations has made the involvement of a digital forensic expert inevitable. 

A Computer Forensic Examiner plays an integral part in the investigation and successful resolution of a case. While forensic analysts are known by different names such as computer forensic analysts, digital forensic investigators/ specialists/ experts, their job essentially revolves around evidence management and representation. They are experienced in identifying, organizing and preserving data or evidence in an efficient manner in order to provide accurate proofs in support of statements during a trial. 

The role of a Computer forensic specialist is not limited to evidence recovery and presentation. Unbeknownst to most, forensic analysts are capable of providing a new direction to a case and make a huge difference in courtrooms with their analytical ability, critical thinking and expert presentation of facts in a convincing manner. Here is a brief summary of duties performed by these expert professionals to aid an investigation:

Evidence Recovery, Management & Representation

This is the primary responsibility of a forensic examiner. Whether it is an encrypted document or deleted files, digital forensic specialists are capable of converting them into formats acceptable in courts. They have the ability and knowledge to analyze and track evidence in any form like documents, files, videos, images, encrypted data, deleted/ hidden information, emails, messages, identifying modifications, altercation and recent digital and internet activities.

Besides dealing with a variety of evidence, analysts are trained to locate data/ evidence from any digital source. They deploy tools, techniques and critical analysis to break through complex gadgets or day to day devices like computers, laptops, cell phones, tablets, SD cards, peripheral as well as connecting devices in addition to network servers, social media activity tracking and evaluating financial statements, records and accounts. Forensic Examiners have a knack for wading through a vast amount of data and locating the required information.

Correlating Events & Statements

Information is of no use if it cannot prove a point or lead the case towards success. It is a crucial aspect of forensic investigation to establish timeline of events, verify or nullify the statements of witnesses and present witnesses to support facts and circumstances. Digital Forensic Analysts are experienced and skilled in analyzing the information and compiling them to establish a coherent inferences or conclusions.

 

Expert Witness Testimony

The witness presented by an expert digital forensic analyst aided by digital evidence acts as a solid way of presenting testimony. Forensic analysts are trained to present evidence in a convincing manner as well as explain jargons and complex technicalities in simple user friendly terms that can be easily admitted by judges & juries. The efficient representation of facts & figures and the inferences drawn thereby by an experienced forensic examiner ensures the successful resolution of a legal proceeding. 

However, before approaching an investigative agency to aid you in computer forensic examination you need to make certain that the organization is reputed, experienced and the required resources and skills to handle privileged information obtained during the investigation in a confidential manner.

ROLE OF A PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR

A Private Investigator is hired by the people/clients to assist them or their attorneys in gathering & analyzing evidence for civil and criminal trials. These investigators are typically experienced and trained in both traditional & digital forensic investigative fields in order to support a legal proceeding with accurate evidence. In certain cases clients prefer hiring private investigators to aid their cases owing to confidentiality of the issues. The job responsibility of a private investigator involves the following roles:

Representing Defendants

A private investigator’s primary role is to gather evidence, witnesses and useful information to help the clients defend the case. He collects evidence with the objective to verify facts, reports & statements that can strengthen the case.

Surveillance/ Interview/ Interrogation

Investigators are adept at conducting surveillance through digital cameras, video cameras, CCTV footages or online surveillance techniques in order to determine the credibility of a key player, witness, petitioner or informants involved in the case. He is responsible for identifying and locating individuals and physical evidence that are relevant in strengthening the case.

He is also skilled in cross examining suspects, witnesses and other people involved in the case, which can provide an insight and relevant information. He must be experienced to differentiate between biased opinions, facts and lies.

Testifying During Trials

An Investigator is expected to act as an expert witness and testify during trials. He is to provide detailed accounts of what he did during the surveillance, the persons he interviewed, how evidence/information was identified, collected and preserved. Investigators are generally called in during hearings to recount details of the crime scene investigation, results & reports of computer forensic examination and interpret the complex technical issues in user friendly terms.

Advising the Attorneys

An experienced Private Investigator is an extremely useful aid to the clients that require discreet enquiry and to uphold the reputation of the companies or associations involved. Investigators are skilled in drafting reports in accordance with legal terminologies and rules which help the attorneys represent their case during a trial. The investigators with extensive experience can also provide assistance as well as advice on how to present evidence during trials that will guarantee their success.  They also help the attorneys in accumulating relevant information by making judicious decisions.

In addition to these, the investigator should be a reliable person who functions within the law and has knowledge regarding the implementation & interpretation of law.

If you are looking for a private investigator; who can effectively represent your case and is highly experienced in dealing with both criminal & civil proceedings involving the federal law, Mr Dan James the founder of ICFECI (Institute of Forensic Examination & Criminal Investigations), who is located in the Northern District of Texas, is one of the reputed investigators. He is also the former Chief Investigator for the office of the Federal Public Defender and is thus experienced in handling both civil & criminal litigations.

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FINDING THE BEST DALLAS PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR

Dallas happens to be the ninth largest city in the United States with a population of 1.2 million and a crime rate of 51 per one thousand residents which is more than 92 percent of the communities in Texas. Statistics state, there is a chance of one person in every 20 people to be a victim of White Collar Crimes like Investment, Insurance and Mortgage Frauds & Ponzi Schemes as well as other violent crimes.

While most cases are dealt by law enforcement officials, certain part of the population prefers discreet investigation for which they hire private investigators. The reasons behind this are to scrutinize available facts & reports, hire a private certified fraud examiner and forensic examiner to provide expert witness testimony during trials. In fact, skilled private investigators are the best source of legally procured admissible evidence for the effective representation of defendants.

However, finding a reputed & professional Dallas Private Investigator is risky unless you are aware whom & what to look for. Here are some basic requirements a private investigator should fulfil based on which you can make a decision.

Functions within Legal Boundaries

You need to make sure that the investigator holds a license and is lawfully registered with the state of Texas to perform his job responsibilities without hindrance. He should also be well aware of the laws & rules involving investigation. He must operate within legal boundaries while gathering evidence and hence be an asset to a well built case and the client.

Experience & Professionalism

Prior experience in the field of both traditional & digital forensic investigation accompanied with knowledge to deal with both White Collar crimes like Securities, Insurance Health Care Frauds, Bank Frauds, Bankruptcy Cases and violent sex crimes, child pornography, homicides and aggravated assaults is an advantage in an investigator working in and around Dallas.

Besides being skilled, it is essential that the private investigator is an accomplished professional. He or the team of investigators must possess refined communication & interrogation skills, client & case management skills, discreet in gathering evidence & enquiry and well acquainted with maintaining client confidentiality.

Resources & Equipments

The need to verify physical evidence and collect data/evidence through the use of computers & technology using forensic analysis has become a reliable and essential part of investigations. Private Investigators who are trained in discovery, acquisition and preservation of data/proof through computer forensics and well equipped with a digital forensic lab must be your first choice.

Ensure that they can perform various aspects of data recovery like recovering deleted files/records/books/emails, tracing internet/social media activity, transactions and also extracting information from digital storage & media devices as well as servers. This increases the scope of a case by providing accurate facts.

Expertise in Representing Defendants

The most important factor while deciding on a private investigator is to make sure that he is experienced as an expert witness. For this he must have the required skill to scrutinize and write detailed reports which is understood by judges & juries. The investigator should also hold certifications like being a Certified Fraud Examiner or a Certified Forensic Examiner in order for the court to acknowledge his statement.

One such private investigation firm, the Institute of Forensic Examination & Criminal Investigations (ICFECI) located in the Northern District of Texas and aided by its high profile forensic lab is among the reputed forms which has all the characteristics required to provide a client with satisfactory resolution to all types of legal proceedings. It is headed by Mr. Dan James, the former Chief Investigator, Certified Fraud Examiner & Computer Forensic Examiner for the office of the Federal Public Defender, Northern District of Texas.

Effective Role of Computer Forensics in Investigations

The field of Criminal & Civil investigation has taken a turn towards precision with the advent of Forensic sciences. The authenticity of untainted forensically procured evidence has made it an essential element of investigation in recent times.

Blending in traditional investigative methodologies with forensic analysis and technology has proved to be a concrete scheme for gathering accurate evidence and drawing the perfect conclusion. Of all forensic sciences, Computer Forensics has proved to be the universal method aiding the study of all types of cases globally.

Computer forensics is a branch of digital forensic science which serves as a source of legal evidence found on computers and digital storage media. It aids the investigation of both criminal & civil proceedings by helping obtain vital information and gathering proofs & evidence. Key information found on computers, laptops, tablets, hard drives, flash drives, servers and other digital storage media are identified, recovered & organized to be presented as veritable evidence in a court of Law with the help of digital forensic examination.

Although this branch of forensic science has been generalized as a method of evidence recovery, it serves diverse purposes. The computer forensic experts better known as forensic analysts are specialized in electronics recovery, data recovery & analysis, tracing & monitoring online activity, tracing online transactions, investigating data theft, expertise in recognizing Steganography, determining unauthorized access (Hacking),  dealing with serious cyber crimes and generating detailed reports acceptable in a court of Law.

Some of the major services offered by computer forensic analysis can be outlined here:

Evidence/ Data Recovery

Finding tangible evidence through traditional investigative techniques has become limited to crime scene discoveries and certain paperwork. However most of the data, be it corporate secrets, illegal/ illicit files, deleted emails, chats, internet usage, work documents, encrypted data or vital information, all find their way into computer hard drives or digital storage media devices like mp3 players, USB sticks, SD cards etc. The discovery, acquisition, recovery and preservation of evidence are the basic use of digital forensics.

Tracking Online/ Digital Activity

Authenticating & tracking emails, online transactions, social media activities, web-mails, email metadata and making sure that the messages or the transactions have not been tampered with or forged is an important achievement in the field of computer forensics. It helps map the activities and correlate events so as to verify or nullify statements.

Recovering data from online servers has also proved to be an efficient technique for accurate presentation of facts. Tracking recent computer activities like – web history, recently opened windows in operating systems, insertion of external storage & media like flash & hard drives are services which have improved the chances of accuracy & faster analysis in the investigation process.

Correlation of Evidence & Data

Regarding digital forensic analysis simply as a source of evidence is a common error. The extent of the services offered by this field includes correlation of events by finding dates of recent activities & data manipulations, discovering recipient & sender of messages and thus facilitates in tracing a map of events, movements, entities & flow of data. It helps integrate a large amount of database and draw relevant conclusions.

Catering to Wide Variety of Cases

Computer forensic analysis finds application in a wide range of complicated cases concerning both criminal & civil proceedings. It helps in amassing vital information, sketch fraudulent transactions, discover  data theft related to White Collar Crimes like Insurance, Tax, Bank, Health Care Frauds, Securities Fraud, Intellectual Property Theft, Patent Infringement, Public Corruption and Bribery. It also aids in uncovering facts & truth related to serious criminal offense like child pornography, homicide & sex crimes.

Because of the insight provided by digital forensic analysis, it is not only considered as an aid to investigations but also assists in effective representation of defendants through expert witness testimony.

Since this field is both an art & science, even with latest tools & high end technology it requires the expertise of forensic analysts who are experienced in handling wide range of tools, hardware & software and also are efficient in drawing relevant conclusions from gathered facts.

Only the unique art of treating each case differently, experience in a wide range of cases combined with analytical skill in digital forensic sciences will yield the best results. One such organization known to provide perfect resolution to each legal proceeding is ICFECI (Institute of Forensic Examination & Criminal Investigations). It operates within the principles of professional specialization and has achieved a vast experience in digital forensic analysis. It diligently works on both criminal & civil investigations and also helps in effective representation of defendants.

ICFECI is identified for researching in this field and developing new techniques to procure forensic evidence in a state of the art lab, housed in Northern District of Texas and thus provides perfect resolution to a variety of cases.