Virtual Cell Phone Kiosk

Law enforcement personnel in the Heart of America RCFL's (HARCFL) service area are now eligible to receive the laboratory's newest service offering—the "Virtual Cell Phone Kiosk." The HARCFL staff created this tool to enable registered users to perform cell phone forensics on hundreds of models of devices at their work stations – no travel required.

Click here to view our Virtual CPIK flyer.

Click here to apply for an account.

FAQs

Q: What exactly is the Virtual Cell Phone Kiosk?
A: The tool comprises a software package and a basic cable kit which is purchased separately. Once the forensic software is properly installed on a computer, the user can conduct cell phone forensic examinations via an Internet connection; however, they must also have the proper cables on hand.

Q: Who is eligible to obtain the Virtual Cell Phone Kiosk through the HARCFL?
A: Currently, the tool is only available to sworn law enforcement personnel in the HARCFL's service area of Kansas and Western Missouri.

Q: How do I obtain the tool?
A: Click this link and follow the instructions to create an account and download the software. This only occurs after the HARCFL validates the officer's identification.

Q: What costs are involved for users?
A: There are nominal costs associated with this tool because the HARCFL purchased the license required to use the software. However, the HARCFL strongly recommends that agencies purchase a basic kit which has enough cables to connect to a variety of cell phones. The kit also contains a SIM card reader, Blue Tooth antenna, and Infrared (IRDA) antenna, and costs approximately $250 - $500. Without the proper equipment, the user cannot examine a cell phone even if they have the software.

Upon enrollment, the tool's vendor, Susteen, contacts the agency to assist with purchasing the kit. With so many cell phones on the market, purchasing the kit is a wise investment.

Q: What types of investigations does the software work on?
A: The tool may be used to examine cell phones lawfully seized during legitimate criminal investigations, e.g., homicides, assaults, rape and drugs. Law enforcement officers are advised to use the tool in accordance with their agency's own policies, practices, and legal limitations which vary by jurisdiction.

Q: Can officers use the tool for crimes involving child pornography?
A: No. In these situations, the investigator must submit a service request to the HARCFL or use the cell phone kiosk located at the laboratory. Using the tool to extract any images or video involving child pornography is expressly prohibited.

Q: How secure is this tool since it relies on the Internet?
A: The tool is extremely safe and secure because it does not transmit any case data. The only data transmitted over the Internet is the license. The actual images extracted from the cell phone are saved to the user's hard drive, or flash media such as a Universal Serial Bus device.

Q: Must you be a forensic expert to use the system?
A: No. The system is user-friendly and was specifically designed for investigators. As with any system, the HARCFL cannot be held responsible for any damage to evidence or misuse of the system. Proper training to use the tool is also strongly recommended .

Q: My agency is eligible to receive the tool – can you summarize the process for obtaining it?

Step 1: Click here and follow the directions to apply for an account with Susteen, for the work station you plan to use the software on. The application is forwarded to the HARCFL who verifies the applicant's law enforcement affiliation. Upon the HARCFL's approval, Susteen establishes an account for the user and forwards them the log-on information.

Step 2: Download the software and install it on your computer.

Step 3: Once the software is successfully downloaded, Susteen activates the user's account, which enables them to conduct cell phone reviews using the tool and proper cables.

Step 4: To use the software, log-on to http://secureview.us/SV3_HARCFL/


Q: Is training available to use the tool?
A: Yes — users have the choice of two training options:

On-line Training — Upon acceptance in the program, Susteen provides free, on-line WebEx training to familiarize users with operating the software and system, which is automatically sent to registered users.

On-line Training Dates:

• June 17, 2011
• July 1, 2011
• July 15, 2011
• July 29, 2011