Data Collection
Proper data collection is the first step to maintaining a proper chain of custody. At Digital Forensics Worldwide, we use court-tested, industry standard software to make bit-by-bit forensic copies of the data that are admissible in court.
In addition, it is important to remember that deleted information may never truly be deleted. Even formatting the hard drive of a computer does not erase stored data.
In fact, even if an amateur tried to burn their computer in a fireplace, there is a very good chance the data could still be recovered. In many instances, the most important evidence is proof that there was an attempt to destroy data.
At Digital Forensics Worldwide, we use specialized software to identify and restore formatted, corrupted, deleted or hidden files from computers or other electronic media while maintaining crucial data trails, time/date stamps, chain of custody, and evidentiary integrity.
Remember that digital device users always leave tracks. On any given day people use a myriad of digital equipment to process, store and send data. Commonly used digital equipment include:
- Desktop and laptop computers
- Personal Digital Assistants (PDA)
- Cell Phones, Pagers and Fax machines
- Digital Cameras
More important than the digital equipment is the type of information that can be recovered, which may include:
- E-mail and instant messages
- Website usage and subscription information
- Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace information
- User names and passwords
- Financial institutions and debt information
- Fund and asset transfers
- Computer program activity recovering deleted, encrypted, or damaged file information
Proper data collection and an unbreakable chain of custody are crucial to a cases success. If either of these is compromised the evidence may be inadmissible. We use collection and storage methods that have precedence in case law to protect our clients and their evidence.
Avoid the risk associated with improper data collection. Use our industry leading solutions today!
