Forensic Focus

Forensic Focus: Digital Forensics, Incident Response, DFIR
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Forensic Focus

Digital forensics discussion for computer forensics, DFIR and eDiscovery professionals. Visit Forensic Focus at forensicfocus.com for more.

  1. JUN 26

    Well-Being Interventions For Forensic Practitioners – Have Your Say

    Dr Jo Morrissey joins Paul to discuss her research into wellbeing challenges faced by forensic practitioners worldwide. As Workforce Strategy Lead at the Forensic Capability Network, Dr Morrissey is conducting a comprehensive study examining mental health impacts across all forensic disciplines - from digital forensics to crime scene investigation, DNA analysis, and fingerprint examination. They explore the unique psychological pressures forensic practitioners face, including exposure to traumatic material, working in isolation, and the barriers that prevent many from seeking help. Dr Morrissey discusses how stigma around help-seeking behavior and fears about career prospects continue to affect practitioners, and why evidence-based national guidelines are urgently needed. Take part in the research: Dr Morrissey is seeking responses from current and former forensic practitioners worldwide across all disciplines and sectors. The survey examines well-being challenges, available interventions, and their effectiveness. Your participation could help shape future well-being support for the forensic community. Survey closes Friday 4th July 2025. Survey link: https://forms.office.com/e/GXPMwnpyMi #ForensicScience #MentalHealth #Wellbeing #DigitalForensics 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jo Morrissey 01:31 Overview of the Wellbeing Study 03:34 Challenges Faced by Forensic Practitioners 08:25 Survey Specifics and Goals 14:57 Barriers and Stigma in Wellbeing 18:49 Ethical Considerations and Future Research 20:09 Open Access to Research Report 20:38 National Guidelines for Wellbeing 22:00 Challenges in Implementing Guidelines 25:07 Importance of Survey Participation 27:02 Potential for Funding and Further Research 28:06 Exploring Differences in Wellbeing 30:51 Impact of Experience and Culture on Wellbeing 33:39 Resilience and Adverse Childhood Experiences 37:05 Closing Remarks and Future Research

    39 min

  2. JUN 24

    Tom Oldroyd From Semantics 21 On Protecting Investigators And Reducing CSAM Exposure

    Host Paul Gullon-Scott sits down with Tom Oldroyd, Director of Strategy and Sales at Semantics 21, to discuss S21’s digital forensics platform that prioritizes investigator mental health alongside cutting-edge technology. Drawing on his 17 years in policing and experience running a digital forensic unit, Tom highlights the psychological toll on investigators exposed to disturbing content daily, arguing it's one of the most challenging yet underrecognized jobs in policing. Tom highlights Semantics 21's innovative solutions, including their Global Alliance Database with 3.1 billion hashes that can pre-label up to 70% of evidence automatically, AI-powered victim rescue tools, and their groundbreaking features to track investigator exposure levels in real-time. Tom demonstrates protective features like mandatory break reminders, privacy overlays, and decompression videos designed to help investigators manage psychological impact. #DigitalForensics #CyberInvestigation #DFIR #AI #Wellbeing 00:00 Introduction 00:30 Showcasing Semantics 21: Innovation in Digital Forensics 00:40 Protecting Investigator Wellbeing 01:53 Meet Tom Oldroyd 02:56 Challenges in Digital Forensics 06:02 The Growing Threat of Digital Crime 07:38 Global Collaboration and Technology 08:48 Introducing S21 LASERi-X 09:33 The Power of AI and Databases 12:23 Global Alliance Database: A Game Changer 16:52 Efficiency and Investigator Wellbeing 21:11 Advanced Features and Workflow 27:51 Tracking Exposure Levels with Semantics 21 28:20 Monitoring Well-Being 29:13 Handling Large Volumes of Data 30:24 Threshold System and Victim Rescue 32:27 Efficient Data Import and Grading 33:27 Global Alliance Database and Photo DNA 36:32 Wellbeing Features and Stress Management 44:00 Cross-Company Collaboration and Data Sharing 45:38 Pricing and Accessibility of Semantics 21 47:54 User Feedback and Customization 51:12 AI Location Prediction Technology 53:42 Conclusion and Contact Information Show Notes Semantics 21 - https://www.semantics21.com Semantics 21 Articles on Forensic Focus - https://www.forensicfocus.com/author/semantics21

    55 min

  3. MAY 13

    Hexordia's Jessica Hyde: Navigating The Future Of Digital Forensics

    Jessica Hyde from Hexordia joins the Forensic Focus Podcast to discuss her unique journey from Marine Corps avionics technician to digital forensics expert. Jessica shares how her military background provided transferable skills for forensic investigations, emphasizing the importance of documentation, troubleshooting, and diverse perspectives in finding truth in digital evidence. The conversation explores critical topics including IoT forensics challenges, the urgent need for timely data acquisition before evidence degrades, and the role of AI in forensic analysis. Jessica also discusses her experience teaching at George Mason University since 2016, how students' questions enhance her own knowledge, and why interdisciplinary teams create better forensic outcomes. With candid reflections on maintaining perspective while handling difficult cases and thoughts on the future challenges of policy and law keeping pace with technology, this episode offers valuable insights for both seasoned professionals and those new to digital forensics. #DigitalForensics #MobileForensics #CyberInvestigation #DFIR #AI 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:02 Jessica Hyde's Unique Career Path 03:06 Transition to Digital Forensics 13:17 Teaching and Learning in Digital Forensics 20:12 Hands-On Forensics and IoT Devices 24:19 The Importance of Interdisciplinary Teams 27:12 Humor and Levity in Forensics 29:38 The Role of Cyber Investigators 31:07 Bias in Cyber Investigations 32:01 Generational Perspectives in Technology 33:51 Privacy Concerns in Digital Forensics 36:53 The Importance of Timely Data Acquisition 44:28 Challenges with AI in Digital Forensics 54:42 Policy and Legal Challenges in Digital Forensics 56:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Show Notes Hexordia - https://www.hexordia.com George Mason University - https://dfor.gmu.edu/person/jessica-l-hyde SWGDE - https://www.swgde.org

    58 min

  4. MAY 6

    Cellebrite's 2025 DFIR Industry Trends Survey - Key Insights

    Heather Barnhart and Paul Lorenz join the Forensic Focus Podcast to discuss key insights from Cellebrite's 2025 DFIR Industry Trends Survey. They dive into the challenges facing digital forensics today - from locked devices and encrypted applications to overwhelming case backlogs. The survey, which gathered responses from over 2,100 professionals across 95 countries, reveals notable trends: 98% of prosecutors consider digital evidence critical to their cases, and 80% of respondents believe AI can enhance investigation effectiveness. The discussion delves into the growing acceptance of cloud storage in forensics, the cautious adoption of AI in investigations, and the preference for in-person training despite the convenience of online options. The guests also discuss cognitive bias in investigations and the importance of maintaining forensic integrity when presenting digital evidence. #digitalforensics #dfir 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 00:56 Paul Lorenz's Journey into Forensics 03:19 Challenges in Digital Forensics 04:36 Industry Trends and Survey Insights 06:37 Mental Health and Community Support 17:19 AI in Digital Investigations 22:57 Case Studies and Real-World Examples 27:37 Diverse Paths in Investigations 28:07 Challenges of Bias in Forensic Cases 30:33 The Complexity of Cloud Storage 37:45 Generational Shifts in Technology Adoption 41:30 The Importance of Training in Forensics 43:19 In-Person vs. Online Training Preferences 50:12 Concluding Thoughts and Future Trends Show Notes 2025 Industry Trends Survey - https://cellebrite.com/en/industry-trends-survey-2025 Cellebrite - https://cellebrite.com/en/home

    53 min

  5. APR 23

    The DFIR Investigative Mindset: Brett Shavers On Thinking Like A Detective

    Brett Shavers joins the Forensic Focus Podcast to discuss the critical "investigative mindset" needed for effective digital forensics. Drawing from his unique background in undercover law enforcement operations and his transition to digital forensics, Brett shares invaluable insights on why technical skills alone aren't enough in DFIR. Digging into practical challenges with hosts Si and Desi, Brett tackles head-on why DFIR isn't an entry-level field, the importance of understanding human behavior behind digital evidence, and how to approach cases with both technical precision and investigative strategy. He discusses his journey authoring several influential books including "DFIR Investigative Mindset," "Placing the Suspect Behind the Keyboard," and the definitive guide to X-Ways Forensics. Whether you're a seasoned investigator or considering a career in digital forensics, Brett offers practical wisdom on balancing technical proficiency with investigative thinking, effective communication of complex findings, and why we should remember we're not investigating computers—we're investigating people who use computers. #digitalforensics #dfir 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 02:01 Brett Shavers' Background in Law Enforcement 03:33 Transition to Forensics 05:03 Challenges in DFIR 07:17 Educational Pathways and Industry Insights 12:51 X-Ways Forensics and Tool Proficiency 16:58 Investigative Mindset and New Book 27:46 The Importance of Education in Cybersecurity 28:04 Challenges in Teaching Investigative Skills 28:59 Real-World Training Scenarios 30:38 Understanding the Human Element in Cybersecurity 35:35 The Role of Communication in Cybersecurity 42:59 Technical Proficiency and Case Management 47:32 Continuous Improvement and Collaboration 53:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Show Notes Brett's Ramblings - https://www.brettshavers.com/ DFIR Training - https://www.dfir.training/ Brett's Books - https://brettshavers.com/my-books

    56 min

  6. APR 14

    AI Unpacked: Magnet Forensics' New Series On AI In DFIR

    Brandon Epstein joins the Forensic Focus Podcast to discuss the evolving landscape of digital forensics and the growing role of artificial intelligence in evidence analysis. Brandon shares his journey from being a major crimes detective in New Jersey to co-founding Medex Forensics (later acquired by Magnet), and discusses his current roles both at Magnet Forensics and as chair of the Scientific Working Group on Digital Evidence (SWGDE). In this wide-ranging conversation, he explains how AI is being responsibly implemented in forensic tools like Magnet Axiom's Copilot feature and Magnet Verify, highlighting the critical distinction between using AI for investigative leads versus evidentiary conclusions. Brandon also dives into the challenges of media authentication in an era of deepfakes, the shift toward cloud-based forensic platforms, and provides a preview of his upcoming "AI Unpacked" webinar series. #digitalforensics #dfir #ai 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:32 Life in Nashville and User Summit Highlights 02:07 The Importance of Networking at Conferences 04:32 Brandon's Journey to Magnet Forensics 10:17 AI and Digital Forensics 16:02 AI Unpacked Webinar Series 21:40 Scientific Working Group on Digital Evidence (SWGDE) 33:16 The Collaborative Spirit in Forensics 34:45 Magnet's Expanding Product Line 36:14 The Future of Cloud in Digital Forensics 39:08 Challenges and Benefits of Cloud Adoption 45:26 The Role of AI and Cloud in Conferences 46:09 Magnet's Acquisition of DVR Examiner  48:47 The Importance of Video Authenticity 52:29 Emerging Technologies in Forensics 58:04 Personal Insights and Closing Remarks Show Notes Magnet Forensics - https://www.magnetforensics.com AI Unpacked - https://www.magnetforensics.com/ai-unpacked/?utm_source=ForensicFocus&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=UTMC-0000077 SWGDE - https://www.swgde.org

    1h 3m

  7. MAR 13

    Rob Fried's Award-Winning Approach To Digital Forensics

    Hosts Si and Desi welcome back Robert Fried, winner of the Top Professional Investigator award. Rob discusses his new book, ‘Forensic Data Collection 2.0,’ and shares insights on the evolving landscape of digital forensics. The conversation explores the importance of documentation in forensic investigations, balancing technical skills with human interaction, and meeting the challenges of AI and emerging technologies. Rob emphasizes building rapport with clients and stakeholders while mentoring the next generation of digital forensic examiners. Rob shares his fascinating journey from law enforcement training to private sector work, highlighting how the human element remains essential even as technology evolves. He also discusses his collaborative work with legendary NYPD detective Ralph Friedman and his connections with tech pioneers including Frank Canova (inventor of the first smartphone) and Neil Papworth (sender of the first text message) who endorsed his book. Whether you're a seasoned digital forensics professional or just starting in the field, this episode offers valuable insights into the documentation, methodology, and people skills that make for successful investigations in today's rapidly changing digital landscape. #digitalforensics #dfir #investigator  00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:08 Achievements and Industry Involvement 03:37 Challenges and Changes in Forensics 07:57 Writing and Teaching Forensics 16:09 Human Element in Investigations 30:30 Building Trust and Professional Relationships 34:13 The Importance of Hands-On Learning 34:58 Teaching and Learning from the Younger Generation 36:28 Scientific Methodology in Problem Solving 38:21 The Role of Documentation in Digital Forensics 43:23 Building a Collaborative Community 46:27 Challenges and Innovations in Digital Forensics 49:20 The Human Element in Forensic Investigations 55:25 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans Show Notes Forensics By Fried - https://forensicsbyfried.com Forensic Data Collections 2.0 - https://forensicsbyfried.com/books Robert Fried LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertbfried Forensic Data Collections 2.0 LinkedIn Group - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13178163 Top Professional Investigator - https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7259530724997742592

    1h 2m

  8. FEB 24

    Protecting Investigators: Dr. Michael Bourke On Building A Healthier DFIR Community

    Dr Michael Bourke joins the Forensic Focus Podcast to discuss the psychological impact of investigating internet crimes against children and how organizations can better support digital forensic investigators' mental health. As a distinguished clinical psychologist and researcher, Dr Bourke shares powerful insights from his extensive work in this field, explaining how repeated exposure to disturbing material can affect even the most resilient professionals. Dr Bourke introduces his innovative "sunburn analogy" to explain how secondary traumatic stress accumulates over time, discusses practical strategies for protecting investigators' wellbeing, and reveals details about the groundbreaking FORWARD Center, a new non-profit wellness facility dedicated to supporting first responders. He also shares insights from the National Wellness Survey, which received responses from 8,000 law enforcement professionals, demonstrating the urgent need for better mental health support in this field. #digitalforensics #DFIR #mentalhealth #wellbeing 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 02:00 Inspiration Behind the Research 03:01 Challenges Faced by Digital Forensic Investigators 06:00 The Importance of Proactive Mental Health Support 13:32 Cultural Competence in Therapy 23:42 Practical Steps for Organizations 34:23 The National Wellbeing Survey 38:03 The Forward Center Initiative 48:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    49 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Digital forensics discussion for computer forensics, DFIR and eDiscovery professionals. Visit Forensic Focus at forensicfocus.com for more.

Information

  • Creator
    Forensic Focus: Digital Forensics, Incident Response, DFIR
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    104
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Forensic Focus 2024
  • Show Website
    Forensic Focus

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