State Government

In contrast to the other courses in this series, which deal primarily with the acquisition of digital evidence, this course addresses legal issues that appear relatively late in the investigative and judicial process. Topics include the Fifth Amendment as it applies to passwords and login credentials, determining the ownership of files on digital devices, and the admissibility of online evidence. This is the sixth of seven modules in the training series Legal Concerns for Digital Evidence Responders. It can be completed as a stand-alone course or in combination with the other six modules.

This course provides a legal overview of what investigators are and are not permitted to do while conducting online undercover investigations. Topics include terms of service, entrapment and outrageous government misconduct, and wiretapping law as it relates to the recording and documenting of online activities. This course also covers defense strategies commonly used to counter online undercover investigations. This is the fifth of seven modules in the training series Legal Concerns for Digital Evidence Responders.

This course provides information on obtaining and executing search warrants in cases involving digital evidence, with a focus on the similarities and differences between these and other search warrants. The course covers establishing probable cause, particularity, scope, and nexus; the use of outside experts; and out-of-state warrants for remote evidence. This is the second of seven modules in the training series Legal Concerns for Digital Evidence Responders. It can be completed as a stand-alone course or in combination with the other six modules.

This course provides basic information for first responders who may encounter digital evidence in the course of their duties. Topics include the definition of digital evidence, where it can be found, the importance of getting digital devices to a forensics expert, and the ways in which digital evidence can be compromised. This course also addresses the issue of when a warrant is required to seize and/or search digital devices. This is the first of seven modules in the training series Legal Concerns for Digital Evidence Responders.

This course covers basic information and concepts that serve as an introduction to virtual currencies and their relationship to other types of currency. It covers various types of virtual currency, including the difference between decentralized and centralized currencies, with a strong focus on Bitcoin: what it is, how it is stored, and Bitcoin-specific investigative tips and techniques.

This course provides an overview of the two phases of a cell phone investigation: the preservation, extraction, and analysis of data within the phone; and the acquisition and analysis of data external to the phone (call detail records and other information). Students become familiar with several forensic tools currently in use in the field, as well as NW3Cs PerpHound, a specialized tool that assists in plotting historical cell site locations. Other topics include cell phone components, cellular network components, and mobile device identification.

This course introduces learners to the concept of digital footprints and best practices in protecting personally identifiable information (PII). Topics include limiting an individuals digital footprint, protecting privacy on social media, opting out of data aggregator sites, and the consequences of oversharing personal information; as well as steps to take after becoming a target of doxing.

Identifying and Seizing Digital Evidence provides a comprehensive overview of the issues surrounding digital media in relation to criminal investigations. Topics covered in this training included preparing to respond to the digital crime scene, identifying potential sources of digital evidence, and properly collecting items of evidentiary value to be used in court proceedings. The roles of the first responder, investigator, digital forensic examiner, prosecutor, and defense counsel are differentiated and explored. Legal concerns in conducting a search for digital evidence are also addressed.

This course will provide an overview of how the Internet of Things (IoT) and associated devices can help law enforcement with their investigations. It will familiarize learners with what IoT is, how it works, common devices, and how it can be leveraged for gathering evidence.

This webinar will examine the investigative and legal considerations related to tracking technology, and the impact of ultra-wideband location networks such as Apple AirTags and other similar emerging technologies. We will use case analysis to illustrate key questions and considerations for both investigators and prosecutors given the increasing criminal use of this technology and proactive use during investigations. Presented by: Justin Fitzsimmons, Associate Vice President, NW3C Jim Emerson, Vice President, NW3C