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Frequently Asked Questions
We have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions and answers about the basics of digital forensics.
To get started choose from immediate options.
Call our 24/7 toll-free hotline to speak directly with a forensics expert. Alternatively use our simple online form to set up a new case and we will contact you shortly.
Frequently Asked QuestionsWe have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions and answers about the basics of digital forensics.
▸ What is digital forensics?
Digital Forensics or Computer Forensics involves the science of identifying, preserving and recovering digitally stored evidence. As such it is a science and is not disprovable. This is often used in a legal dispute and can involve any device that contains digital information; including mobile devices, hard drives, flash drives, SD cards and other flash memory, and cloud storage.
▸ What types of cases do your private investigators take on?
Our licensed private investigators can take on any civil case. Most common types of cases are infidelity, fraud, insurance fraud, vetting a person, and more. As we are licensed we only use legal methods to conduct our analysis.
▸ What is a forensic image?
A forensic image is an exact sector by sector copy of any digital media. This is usually done by using specialized software and a write blocker to make an identical copy that is preserved and thereby admissible in a court of law. This also copies the unallocated and un-used space which means deleted files can be analyzed and recovered.
▸ What if the media in question is damaged?
Fortunately Secure Forensics has an in house award winning data recovery lab. We have the highest success rate in the industry at over 96%, so if your media is damaged we can still perform digital forensics after the data recovery process.
▸ What is Metadata?
This data explains information about a specific file or document. Metadata is used to understand what activities occurred using any digital device. Even if the metadata was tampered with our forensics investigators can spot inconsistencies to reveal evidence of tampering or destruction of evidence.
▸ What is unallocated space?
Unallocated space is the free or unused space of a hard drive or other digital storage media. With few exceptions, deleted data resides in unallocated space until that space is reused for new files. This allows our investigators to identify and recover deleted data.
▸ How does your process work?
After the retainer is received, we offer both delivery and onsite collection options. After we receive your evidence, we’ll preserve it in its received state by creating an exact copy of its contents for analysis and securing the original in our secure storage facility. We’ll then analyze that copy for evidence based upon your analysis goals or needs. You’ll receive a full report of the process and findings for use in your legal or investigative process.
▸ How is the forensic report and data delivered?
The report is delivered electronically; any potential findings or electronic evidence can be delivered by hardware encrypted hard drive.
▸ Where can you collect?
We have over 50 offices that can accept deliveries nationwide, some evidence items can’t be transported and must be acquired on site. Secure Forensics is equipped to handle onsite acquisitions with advanced notice.
▸ How much does it cost?
Our services are typically performed at $250 per hour starting with a 6-hour $1500 retainer.
▸ How many hours does a forensic case take?
Most analyses require anywhere from 10-40 hours, depending on the quantity of evidence to be analyzed. We typically are able to provide a preliminary analysis and an estimate of any additional time required after the first 10-15 hours.
▸ How long does it take?
Most standard analyses typically require 2-6 weeks to complete. Large storage environments or analyses with more than 2 devices may take longer. We also have emergency service options available if your case is time sensitive.
How can you guarantee our data is secure?
We are a fully certified lab with over 60 points of processes and controls audited by a third party under the SSAE 16(soon to be 18) standard. Our forensic examiners have more than 15 years average experience and we can provide the credentials of your case’s forensic examiner upon request. We also return the data on a Pending FIPS Level 3 Hardware Encrypted Hard Drive.
To get started choose from immediate options.Call our 24/7 toll-free hotline to speak directly with a forensics expert. Alternatively use our simple online form to set up a new case and we will contact you shortly.
Call our 24/7 toll-free hotline.
1-800-288-1407
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