Digital evidence has become a critical part of virtually all modern criminal investigations. As technology continues to evolve, smartphones, computers, cloud services, wearable devices, vehicles, IoT devices (Internet of Things), and social media platforms routinely generate information that can assist investigators. The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) recognizes that digital evidence is now a critical component of virtually every criminal investigation, while the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) explains that the widespread use of digital devices has made digital evidence increasingly important to the investigation and prosecution of criminals.
The rapid growth of digital data increases this need, NIJ-sponsored research reported that Americans used more than 15.7 trillion megabytes of mobile data in a single year, which if printed, would require roughly 7.85 quadrillion pages. Stacked up, this paper would reach about 785,000 miles into space (more than three times the distance to the moon), weigh roughly 39.2 million tons, and consume over 940 million trees. Not to mention, North American mobile data usage is projected to increase nearly sixfold over a six-year period. As the volume and complexity of digital evidence continue to expand, so does the need for skilled digital forensic professionals capable of identifying, preserving, and analyzing digital evidence using scientifically sound methodology.
The Digital Forensics Crime Lab combines professional investigative experience with advanced technological expertise to support law enforcement agencies through the forensic examination of digital evidence. Our examiners perform forensically sound identification, preservation, analysis, and interpretation of data from computers, mobile devices, storage media, cloud-based services, and other digital systems while maintaining the integrity of the evidence throughout the investigative process. Additionally, the DFCL provides reliable, court-ready forensic analysis, while serving as an educational and research environment where students and interns gain hands-on experience with current forensic methodologies and emerging technologies, preparing the next generation of digital forensic professionals to meet the evolving demands of the ever-evolving criminal justice system.