Free or low-cost software tools that may be of assistance in understanding forensic evidence disciplines of digital forensics, arson investigation, DNA, death investigation, and more.
Websites
A Simplified Guide to Forensic Science
The National Forensic Science Technology Center created this website to explain in simplified terms the principles of each type of forensic analysis and how the analysis is performed. Topics include DNA, digital evidence, fingerprints, firearms, trace evidence, blood stains, and more.
Short Tandem Repeat DNA Internet DataBase
Forensic DNA analysis resources compiled by John Butler. Includes training materials, technical information, and a collection of data by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
Digital Evidence Insider
Forensic Magazine regularly posts articles on digital forensics. Recent topics include: SIM card forensics, cell phone evidence, and collecting computer evidence.
NACDL’s Fourth Amendment Center
Offers direct assistance to defense lawyers handling cases involving new technologies and tactics that may infringe on privacy rights of Americans.
Electronic Frontier Foundation
Nonprofit that defends digital privacy. Website includes information on cell tracking, locational privacy, pen trap, surveillance technologies, and more. Cell Tracking – Considers whether the government can use cell phone records to track the physical location of a suspect without first obtaining a warrant based on probable cause. Printers – Discusses the practice of color laser printer …
FoneFinder
Provides the name of the service provider associated with a phone number.
Retention Periods of Major Cellular Service Providers
Retention periods for call details, cell tower information, text message content, pictures, and other types of data from a CAST presentation shared in a 2021 Vice article.
Retention Periods of Major Cellular Service ProvidersRead More
Database of internet service and other online content providers
Search this directory of wireless and internet service providers to find contact information for legal departments. This directory was created for law enforcement use through a grant from the DOJ.
Database of internet service and other online content providersRead More
Digital Evidence Subcommittee
The Digital Evidence Subcommittee of OSAC focuses on standards and guidelines related to information of probative value that is stored or transmitted in binary form.
Scientific Working Group on Digital Evidence
Composed of member organizations that are actively engaged in the field of digital and multimedia evidence. Works to foster communication and cooperation and ensure quality and consistency within the forensic community.
Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM)
A group of approximately 50 scientists representing federal, state, and local forensic DNA laboratories in the United States and Canada. SWGDAM periodically issues new Interpretation Guidelines that crime labs then implement. The 2017 guidelines that supersede the 2010 guidelines are available on the SWGDAM website. FAQ page contains helpful information.
Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM)Read More
Canine Detection Evidence
Law and Technology Resources for Legal Professionals comprehensive compilation of online publications, research, resources and standards on canine detection evidence.
Detector Dog Research
K-9 trainer and detection team certification program that is a joint project of the International Forensic Science Research Institute, the National Forensic Science Technology Center, the Florida Highway Patrol Contraband Interdiction Program and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement
United States Police Canine Association
Website contains certification requirements for dogs and handlers.