What is Cell Site Analysis?
Cell Site analysis is a forensically recognised method to help identify an area in which a mobile phone could have been at a particular time.
The evidence gained through the analysis of cell sites can be hugely beneficial to a case and, with thorough analysis of the Call Data Records or Call Detail Records (CDR), IntaForensics specialists can produce reports revealing the likely position and movements of the mobile device.
Given the prevalence of mobile phones this can be crucial for many types of criminal investigation:
- It may help demonstrate that a device could have been present in an area including an incident location or crime scene;
- However, it could also suggest otherwise – potentially supporting an alibi.
How does Cell Site Analysis Work?
The Call Data Records (CDR’s) of a mobile phone need to be secured from the network provider – these are usually retained for 12 months, and requested by the Police under the Investigatory Powers Act.
These records can be analysed, using specialist software, to determine when the device was used and what cells it connected to during a period of interest.
A Radio Frequency (RF) survey can then be undertaken, to see if the cells used at a particular time by the device provide coverage at a location relevant to an investigation.
What can I expect from RF Surveys?
- Meticulous survey preparation, identifying the relevant cells and their associated frequency bands.
- Survey undertaken with both SIM based equipment in addition to a software defined radio, combining the advantages of both equipment variants.
- Robust data quality and security measures, to safeguard the survey data and ensure its integrity.
- Easy to comprehend cell detection maps.
Granted Accreditation for Forensic Cell Site Analysis
IntaForensics is the UK's first organisation to be granted accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and the Forensic Science Regulator’s Codes of Practice and Conduct for cell site analysis.
Conducting Cell Site Analysis
What can I expect from Call Data Records Analysis?
- A thorough review of the relevant call data records for each device using CSAS – specialist software provided by Forensic Analytics.
- Early identification of any potential ambiguities or contentious issues within the data.
- An excellent understanding of how mobile data sessions (GPRS) should be correctly interpreted.
- The provision of opinion evidence regarding the potential coverage of a cell, in the event that it has not been detected during an RF survey.
What can I expect from Attribution Analysis?
- Attribution analysis is essential to help support the custody and control of a mobile phone, if this is disputed.
- Detailed frequently used cell analysis can help identify an area in which a home address could be located.
- Thorough first and last cell analysis, which may help corroborate home location analysis or identify other addresses and/or intelligence opportunities.
- Concurrent calling, call pattern analysis and other innovative options can also be explored.
What can I expect from Colocation Analysis?
- A careful examination of potential colocations between two or more devices during the relevant period.
- Examination of non-colocations during the same period, thereby providing a complete overview.
- An awareness of the caveats and limitations associated with this form of analysis.
- Detailed tables highlighting instances of colocations and non-colocations.
What Bespoke Solutions can our Cell Site Analysts Offer?
Why should I choose IntaForensics?
- IntaForensics were the first organisation to be granted ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation for cell site analysis in the UK.
- Our cell site experts undertake high profile cases for both prosecution and defence clients, giving them a broad, complete and unbiased perspective.
- The technical reports we produce are presented in a straightforward and accessible manner for the lay reader.
- Our work is always peer reviewed and subjected to rigorous quality checks at key stages.
- Our expert witnesses have extensive Court experience with regards to cell site analysis; they are permitted to give opinion evidence as well.
- Despite the complexities of this subject our staff have excellent verbal communication skills, ensuring that a Jury are able to understand and follow key aspects of the evidence.
Talk to our Cell Site Experts
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