Forensic Methodology
Boston-based, serving clients nationwide by appointment.
This page explains the methodology used for digital evidence handling, forensic data acquisition where appropriate, integrity verification, and engagement-specific documentation.
Methodology Overview
Data365 Evidence follows a preservation-first methodology designed to reduce unnecessary change, record handling decisions, and support later review by counsel, insurers, or internal teams.
- Forensic data acquisition, including imaging suited to the source and selected handling approach
- Integrity verification records, including hashing when used
- Read-only or minimal-touch handling of original media where feasible
Standards and best-practice alignment
Methods are selected to be understandable, explainable, and repeatable within the engagement scope. Where relevant, publicly available digital-evidence guidance is used as a reference point for controlled handling, acquisition, integrity verification, and documentation, with execution adjusted to the media condition, access constraints, and engagement requirements.
Referenced industry guidance
- Scientific Working Group on Digital Evidence (SWGDE) guidance
- NIST Computer Forensic Tool Testing (CFTT) principles
- Defensible documentation: recorded handling notes and scope-based records suitable for legal and insurance-related matters.
- Integrity verification: verification records showing what was checked and when, when used.
- Handling continuity: receipt, storage, transfer, and delivery records supporting evidentiary continuity.
- Scope-based outputs: a clear record of what was done, how it was done, and known limitations.
Note: This page describes methodology and documentation practices. It does not claim accreditation, certification, legal conclusions, or expert opinions unless separately stated in writing for a specific engagement.
Methodology Principles
Data365 Evidence approaches digital evidence handling through a preservation-first framework. These principles guide how evidence is identified, handled, recorded, and delivered within the scope of an engagement.
- Preservation before analysis. Evidence is stabilized and protected before any later evaluative activity.
- Minimal handling of original sources. Direct interaction with original media is limited to what is technically necessary.
- Contemporaneous documentation. Handling actions and conditions are recorded as they occur.
- Repeatability and reviewability. Methods are selected to support later review and explainability.
- Authority and boundaries. Services proceed only after authority, sources, and limits are confirmed in writing.
- No legal conclusions. Technical services are provided without legal advice, legal conclusions, or outcome guarantees.