Forensic Data Acquisition
Boston-based, serving clients nationwide by appointment.
For matters that require controlled collection rather than informal copying or ad hoc export, acquisition is performed under written scope and authorization using methods matched to the source, available access, and delivery requirements.
Preservation-first handling, acquisition where appropriate, and Defensible Documentation for legal, insurance, and internal review matters.
Written intake begins with an intake record so authority, source condition, access dependencies, logistics, and delivery format can be settled before acquisition is scheduled.
Authorized acquisition methods
Method selection depends on the source, the access position, and the form of material authorized for delivery. Not every matter calls for the same acquisition path.
- Bit-for-bit imaging: used where the source and authorization support full-image capture and the matter calls for a preserved duplicate rather than partial collection.
- Targeted exports: authorized collection from cloud systems, applications, or repositories when provider-native export paths or other scoped collection methods are the appropriate fit.
- Log capture: collection of audit, access, authentication, or related system records when the matter depends on activity history as well as user-visible content.
- Public content capture: recorded capture of publicly accessible content and associated metadata where available, aligned to the defined handling objective.
Integrity Controls
- Written scope and source identification before technical steps begin
- Hashing and verification when used
- Recorded handling, storage, and transfer steps
- Controlled release aligned to the confirmed delivery path
Typical acquisition records
Where acquisition is performed, the accompanying records are structured to show what source was authorized, how the material was handled, what was verified when used, and what was delivered without moving into interpretation.
- Intake and authorization record identifying the approved source and handling path.
- Handling and transfer record reflecting receipt, controlled movement, and release.
- Verification references when appropriate for the acquisition method used.
- Delivery record aligned to the agreed output and recipient path.
These materials support legal review, claims handling, and internal file administration while keeping acquisition distinct from later analysis.
Preservation or later analysis
If you are deciding between preservation-stage handling and a later expert engagement, see: Evidence Preservation vs. Forensic Analysis.