As the trend for high-specification mobile phones and computers continues at a rapid pace so too does the potential for electronic media misuse and abuse. This kind of fraudulent activity is becoming more commonly seen in legal cases, particularly with employment tribunals. Legal firms are beginning to employ the services of computer forensics experts, such as the team at CCL, more widely in documenting electronic evidence and providing litigation support, as this can be crucial in the outcome of cases.

Regardless of whether digital forensics is being used in a criminal case or a civil matter (even as part of an E-discovery exercise), maintaining chain of custody is vital.  This is the fully documented tracking of evidence for the period of time that the forensics team has possession of an electronic device. It ensures that each member of the team can be held accountable for any action that they take with the media.

The purpose of this chain is to log the movements of the data, how it has been stored and subsequently analysed. It is essential that this documentation presents an accurate description of any copying, transportation and storage that has occurred, to prevent any potential legal challenge.

It is worth pointing out the differences between e-discovery and computer forensics.  E-discovery is the method of processing and manipulating electronically stored information to be used in legal cases. This can take the form of emails, word processed documents, images and any other type of file, which can be filtered, viewed, analysed and categorised effectively via this system. E-discovery using a forensically acquired data set is crucial in maintaining the integrity of any information present, while potentially recovering any deleted material that may be appropriate for the legal proceedings.

Computer forensics is a highly complex industry that requires the latest in product knowledge and technical expertise. CCL-Forensics has years of experience in the on-site capturing of data from computers, servers and other forms of electronic media. This data is then analysed by their forensic analysis specialists, and used to track how a particular device has been used.  All areas of the chain of custody documentation will be completed to the highest standard to ensure peace of mind for the client.

Following the rapid growth in the use of the internet, the number of crimes involving computers and digital data has increased considerably. When dealing with criminal cases that involve this type of evidence, it is essential that experts with many years of knowledge and experience working in computer forensics are called in to recover files and data. Fortunately, there is one UK based company specialises in digital forensics. With experience of working on more than 6000 cases, meaning clients can rest assured that their forensic investigation will be carried out to the very highest standards.

CCL Forensics offer a range of computer forensics and E-discovery services, to recover digital evidence from computers, mobile phones, satnavs and many other digital devices.  They are currently accredited to ISO9001 and ISO27001 levels and are working towards the complex and stringent ISO17025 and ISO017025 accreditation.

Most commonly working alongside the police, this company have worked with a number of law enforcement and independent companies. Their computer forensics services can be used to uncover evidence of fraud, money laundering, hacking, indecent images, drug dealing, murder and terrorism. If uncovered, this evidence can be used to link individuals to offences in criminal investigations.

It is due to the fragility of this evidence and the delicate nature of digital data that computer forensics specialists should be called in. Whilst many companies have their own internal computer specialists, many can only skim the surface of complex digital data.
Just some of the services that CCL Forensics has to offer include deleted data recovery, mobile phone forensics, computer analysis and cell site analysis.

The company have a number of case studies on their website for clients to browse, these show the varied cases that this computer forensics specialist has worked on. If you require the help of this specialist company, contact them via telephone or online enquiry form. In case of emergency, there is an out of hours contact number on their website.

Tracking mobile phone movements complements computer analysis investigations

CCL-Forensics, the UK’s leading supplier of digital forensics providers has reinforced its commitment to cell site analysis services by recruiting two highly respected experts in this complex field.  In addition to its computer expert witness and mobile phone forensic services, CCL-Forensics is now complementing these services with a full-service cell site (mobile phone movement mapping) function.

Steve Benjamin and Greg Robinson join the company in March, and bring with them almost sixty years of experience in both the field of policing and radio/phone communications.  This, when combined with CCL-Forensics’ current expanding capability in cell site analysis firmly places the company as an industry leader analysing digital evidence.  They will work alongside mobile phone analysts and computer expert witness specialists to ensure CCL-Forensics can provide the widest range of digital analysis.

Steve joined West Midlands Police in the 1970s, before moving in 2004 into the private sector to provide specialist telephony services to law enforcement agencies.  Greg Robinson is an RF engineer with more than 20 years experience in the radio and telecommunications industry as an engineer and expert witness.

Andrew Krauze, Managing Director of CCL-Forensics says: “I am delighted to welcome Greg and Steve to our already excellent cell site analysis team.”

“Their skills and abilities will prove invaluable in enabling CCL-Forensics to provide a holistic digital forensics service to law enforcement bodies in the UK, as well as legal firms, and other public and private sector bodies.”

“CCL-Forensics has built a highly regarded reputation in the digital forensics industry, providing computer expert witness and mobile phone analysis services to some of the country’s most high-profile police forces.  Greg and Steve’s arrival will enable us to grow our cell site analysis department yet further into these sectors”

Cell site analysis is the process of tracking the movement of a mobile phone for use in criminal cases and civil cases.  Using data from the mobile phone provider, the retrospective location of the phone can be analysed and mapped to assist with a prosecution or confirm an alibi.  Mobile phone signal strength can also be measured on-site to determine more precise location data.  This digital evidence is being used in more and more types of cases, in addition to computer expert witness services and mobile phone forensics.

For more information, please contact Marketing Manager Andy Holmes on 01789 261200 or by visiting their website ccl-forensics.com and filling out their ‘Contact Us’ form.

CCL-Forensics is the UK’s leading supplier of digital forensics and computer expert witness services.  It also provides comprehensive cell site analysis services to the law enforcement and legal sectors.  Formed in 2004, it has grown to become one of the largest independent digital forensics suppliers in the country.

As computer technology continues to develop, so unfortunately does the regularity and, perhaps more worryingly, the sophistication of misuse and fraudulent acts – both in the domestic and working environment. Fortunately, there are computer forensics experts out there, such as those at CCL Forensics, whose analysts and investigations team are highly trained in investigating and detecting evidence of this particularly harmful activity, in conjunction with the Police and employers in the public and private sector.

The team at CCL can undertake a wide variety of computer crime investigation functions, to help combat computer and mobile phone misuse. From accessing inappropriate websites to fraudulent computer activity and the theft of Intellectual Property, computer misuse takes many forms. As a result a computer investigation is the most effective method of securing concrete evidence.

The computer forensics techniques deployed by CCL are consistent across the board, whether internally within a business or in a criminal investigation. They always follow strict principles outlined by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) to ensure their investigations are conducted in a forensically sound manner.

For instance, simply switching on the computer and investigating its contents will instantly compromise the integrity of any data – which may result in legal action. CCL Forensics begins with forensic imaging, which is the process of ensuring that no changes are made to any suspect digital equipment utilising a ‘write blocker’. The analyst will then investigate the resultant “digital image” to find out how the computer has been used, and what the alleged perpetrator has done and how. A comprehensive report document is produced, advising on the nature and severity of misuse.

The broad range of computer forensics disciplines can cover whole range of digital equipment and electrical media – from desktop computers and laptops to mobile phones and USB memory sticks – so no stone is left unturned. If you have any concerns about digital media misuse then a thorough investigation from the team at CCL is the most effective way of identifying any such abuse.

New intelligent searching means e-discovery can find concepts rather than just words

Lawyers searching through thousands of documents as part of a complex case can now benefit from a new level of e-discovery solution, including conceptual searching technology.   Warwickshire-based CCL-Forensics – a supplier of IT analysis services to the legal sector – is now able to offer “intelligent” searching technology to law firms across the UK.

The theory that e-discovery is simply a way of searching for user-entered keywords is no longer true.  When dealing with large amounts of electronically stored information, it is now possible for lawyers to use “conceptual searching” techniques to find documents related to a word or concept even if that word is not necessarily included in the document.  For example, if searching for a document about football which doesn’t contain the word “football”, the technology can search for related words and concepts to produce relevant documents.

CCL-Forensics’ Marketing Manager Andy Holmes says “Gone are the days when e-discovery was used to simply locate keywords.  This “dumb” searching has been surpassed by a new level of search technology which means reviewers can spend less time trawling through thousands of irrelevant files while searching for the data they require.  CCL-Forensics is delighted to have partnered with a leading organisation in this field to make this technology available to our client base in the legal sector”.

Large numbers of documents will always form part of major cases in a wide variety of litigation matters.  While there are many lawyers who will always prefer to review on paper, this is not always practical where large amounts of documentation is involved.  Indeed, by using an e-discovery tool, it ensures that electronic data remains electronic – crucially retaining its rich metadata.  This metadata (which literally means “data about data”) can contain details about when documents were created, forwarded and their provenance etc.  This is all valuable information which is lost when documents are printed out.

CCL-Forensics can guide lawyers through this often difficult and complex process, and provide advice on how to use the keyword and conceptual searching to the maximum effect.  It could take human reviewers weeks and months to trawl through thousands of pages of information, where as a computer can do it, sometimes, in a fraction of a second.  For more information on e-discovery and conceptual searching, and how it can save law firms money and time please call 01789 261200.

CCL-Forensics is a Warwickshire-based computer forensics mobile phone forensics and e-discovery supplier which has been working with some of the UK’s largest police forces, law enforcement agencies and legal firms since 2002.  More information is available at www.ccl-forensics.com via their ‘Contact Us‘ page.

As the number of individuals using computers, mobile phones, satellite navigation systems and other digital devices increases, it comes as no surprise that the quantity of criminal cases involving computers and the internet is rising on an almost daily basis. This can primarily be blamed on the increased use of the internet, with people of all ages, from across the globe browsing websites on a daily basis. CCL Forensics is a company that specialises in the field of computer forensics; they work to uncover vital evidence from digital devices that could link individuals to criminal activities.

Computer forensics can be implemented by a range of sectors, from law enforcement and legal services to the corporate and public sectors. Most often, this company works closely with the Police on criminal investigations helping them to discover evidence that is necessary to charge an individual or to be used as part of criminal proceedings.

For companies who suspect computer misuse it is incredibly important to employ a computer forensics and computer expert witness specialist to work on this type of case while many IT experts may feel they are well equipped to uncover files and other such data in-house, the reality is that experienced criminals can ensure that data is hidden deep within digital devices. If not handled correctly the integrity of the evidence can be damaged – meaning failure in court – or the data could even be permanently lost.

CCL Forensics provide a number of services related to digital forensics, these include deleted data recovery, e-discovery, mobile phone forensics, cell site analysis, SatNav forensics and a range of other covert services.

Their website offers fully comprehensive details relating to all of their services, they also have a number of case studies that explain how these have previously been put into practice. To request further information relating to computer forensics, their team are on hand to take calls. Alternatively, potential clients can fill out the enquiry form on the website.

Over the last decade computer usage for both work and leisure purposes has increased two-fold. Unfortunately, this increase in seemingly disposable data has resulted in a higher number of crimes involving digital material. However, when a file is deleted from a computer, it is not necessarily destroyed completely. There are computer forensic companies that specialise in deleted data recovery that can work with a number of sectors to link individuals to any number of crimes.

It is not just computers that can be used as part of a criminal investigation, mobile phones, internet phones and satellite navigation systems can all be used as vital evidence by the police. CCL Forensics have experience of working with legal and law enforcement agencies, private businesses and the public sector to recover data from misused computers and other digital devices.

Investigations into computer misuse can also be vital in civil cases and internal investigations.  It is recommended that businesses commission the assistance of a specialist forensic team for deleted data recovery projects and subsequent investigations. Whilst many companies have an IT support team, it is very easy to damage data if not handled in the correct way. As digital forensics is a scientific discipline, CCL Forensics employ experts in the field and follow strict ACPO guidelines when managing data.

Digital data can be used to link a range of individuals to many varying types of misuse such as, fraud, identity theft, blackmail, paedophilia, drug related offences, assault, murder or even terrorism. In some instances, a covert operation is necessary to uncover evidence without raising suspicion. Many computer forensic teams can offer search and seize, and computer litigation services for such cases.

Any business that is concerned about computer misuse can take a look at the vast resources relating to computer crime investigations and deleted data recovery on this specialist’s website. Alternatively, for further information about any of the aforementioned services, individuals can contact their team in confidence on their telephone number or by filling out their contact form.

Often computer fraud and misuse can be difficult to detect. Helping companies to identify computer and mobile phone abuse in the workplace is essential in combating the accessing of inappropriate websites, computer fraud and the loss of Intellectual Property. The industry of computer crime investigation as a result has continued to grow, and many clients are turning to CCL-Forensics to provide expert guidance in identifying whether any misuse has occurred.

CCL-Forensics follow all Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) guidelines on handling and preserving digital evidence and are ISO9001 and ISO27001 certified. ISO 17025 will also soon be a requirement.  Alongside undertaking their own investigations CCL also work with organisations’ in-house computer teams to assist with complex tasks that these companies may not have the resources or knowledge to undertake internally.

All computer misuse investigations should be handled properly and comprehensively to eliminate the threat of legal challenges.  This may, for example follow allegations of intellectual property theft or inappropriate use of company computers that could lead to contract terminations.

If the situation arises CCL-Forensics can also give expert witness evidence in court or at a tribunal, outlining the processes and procedures involved in the investigation and any conclusions that were reached. The company has a proven track record in delivering computer expert witness services in court – ensuring that any highly technical issues that form part of the examination are presented in an easily understood way.

In computer forensic investigations communication is key. CCL’s clients are kept informed of the progress of their case, and following its completion will be presented with a jargon-free document detailing the extent of computer misuse that has been found.

CCL-Forensics use their wealth of experience to assist companies in computer crime investigation with both consultation and practical solutions. They are also able to undertake covert search and seize forensic investigations, in order to provide the full package of services.

New intelligent searching means e-discovery can find concepts rather than just words

Lawyers searching through thousands of documents as part of a complex case can now benefit from a new level of e-discovery solution, including conceptual searching technology. Warwickshire-based CCL-Forensics – a supplier of IT analysis services to the legal sector – is now able to offer “intelligent” searching technology to law firms across the UK.

The theory that e-discovery is simply a way of searching for user-entered keywords is no longer true. When dealing with large amounts of electronically stored information, it is now possible for lawyers to use “conceptual searching” techniques to find documents related to a word or concept even if that word is not necessarily included in the document. For example, if searching for a document about football which doesn’t contain the word “football”, the technology can search for related words and concepts to produce relevant documents.

CCL-Forensics’ Marketing Manager Andy Holmes says “Gone are the days when e-discovery was used to simply locate keywords. This “dumb” searching has been surpassed by a new level of search technology which means reviewers can spend less time trawling through thousands of irrelevant files while searching for the data they require. CCL-Forensics is delighted to have partnered with a leading organisation in this field to make this technology available to our client base in the legal sector”.

Large numbers of documents will always form part of major cases in a wide variety of litigation matters. While there are many lawyers who will always prefer to review on paper, this is not always practical where large amounts of documentation is involved. Indeed, by using an e-discovery tool, it ensures that electronic data remains electronic – crucially retaining its rich metadata. This metadata (which literally means “data about data”) can contain details about when documents were created, forwarded and their provenance etc. This is all valuable information which is lost when documents are printed out.

CCL-Forensics can guide lawyers through this often difficult and complex process, and provide advice on how to use the keyword and conceptual searching to the maximum effect. It could take human reviewers weeks and months to trawl through thousands of pages of information, where as a computer can do it, sometimes, in a fraction of a second. For more information on e-discovery and conceptual searching, and how it can save law firms money and time please call 01789 261200.

CCL-Forensics is a Warwickshire-based computer forensics mobile phone forensics and e-discovery supplier which has been working with some of the UK’s largest police forces, law enforcement agencies and legal firms since 2002. More information is available at www.ccl-forensics.com via their ‘Contact Us’ page.

It may surprise you to know that when you delete a file on your computer it is still recoverable. Not by the average person of course, but by those specialists that have in depth knowledge of deleted data recovery and where to find files that a typical used thought had been permanently removed. Whether you are in search of evidence to strengthen a court case, or on trial for computer misuse, it’s worth noting that if your computer became seized and searched, those files will potentially be found.

CCL Forensics provides various services involved with data recovery in different aspects of digital forensics. Working mainly with those looking for evidence for legal cases, they are professional at what they do and know exactly where to look for potentially relevant files.

Data recovery is not only possible from computers but more items than most people realise.  Mobile phones and satellite navigation are just two of the other elements that are covered within data recovery. Text messages phone calls and of course tracking people’s whereabouts can all be recovered even if people feel they have covered their tracks by deleting files.

CCL are true professionals within their industry and know how to extract data carefully to stand as genuine evidence within a court case. This is a delicate process, and if the data will be used evidentially, ithe data recovery must be conducted by a qualified digital forensic expert. Not doing so could jeopardise the validity of your case in court and compromise the outcome of an investigation.

Whether you are confident a person is involved in something that deserves investigating, or have proof they are trying to hide tracks and ongoing within their digital device, by choosing a deleted data recovery specialist such as CCL Forensics, you can be assured that anything that is worth being found will be, no matter how many times it’s been ‘deleted’.