Forensic Fix

Discover how digital forensics has evolved over the past decade as Claire Chennells shares insights into mobile forensics, investigator training, career development, and the future of the profession.

Digital forensics has transformed dramatically over the last decade. With increasingly sophisticated smartphones, stronger encryption, and an explosion in digital evidence, investigators face more challenges than ever before. In this episode, Claire Chennells reflects on her career, sharing valuable lessons from both policing and the private sector while exploring where digital forensics is heading next.

Claire’s route into digital forensics wasn’t planned. Originally interested in IT, she discovered an opportunity to become a mobile phone examiner while working in police recruitment. That unexpected opportunity launched a career that has spanned more than 15 years.

Her advice is simple: enthusiasm and a willingness to learn can open doors that you never expected.

The biggest change Claire has witnessed is the extraordinary growth in data available from modern mobile devices.

Early examinations often involved relatively simple handsets with limited information. Today, investigators must contend with encrypted smartphones, cloud services, messaging applications, and an ever-growing ecosystem of digital evidence.

Success now depends on continuously adapting techniques and embracing new technologies to meet evolving investigative challenges.

Beyond conducting examinations, Claire has dedicated much of her career to developing others.

Training investigators requires more than teaching software or extraction techniques. It involves helping officers understand how to correctly interpret evidence while appreciating the risks of drawing incorrect conclusions.

Providing that balance between confidence and caution is one of the most important responsibilities of any digital forensic trainer.

Claire also discusses the transition from policing into the private sector.

While investigations remain technically demanding, the commercial environment often provides greater opportunity to explore problems in depth and contribute to product development and innovation.

The move highlighted how different environments can offer valuable but very different experiences for forensic professionals.

Technical skills are only part of the profession.

Recognizing the emotional demands placed on investigators, Claire has helped establish corporate digital forensics working group to encourage collaboration, knowledge sharing, and peer support.

Creating an environment where professionals can openly discuss challenges helps strengthen both individuals and the wider forensic community.

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Guest links

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-chennells-7ab923207/

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ICMEC Australia -  https://icmec.org.au

Safer AI for Children Coalition - https://icmec.org.au/safer-ai

UK Online Safety Act - https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/online-safety-bill

Grok AI - https://grok.ai

Rigor AI Age Assessment Tool - https://rigor.ai

Guest links

LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/colm-gannon

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Key Topics:

Matt AKA Billy Humphries' career journey from law enforcement to crypto investigations

The parallels between mobile phone and crypto adoption in investigations

The current maturity level of cryptocurrency artifacts in digital forensics

The importance of mindset and proactive adaptation for agencies

Practical strategies for integrating crypto into investigative workflows

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• LinkedIn: Matt (Billy) Humphries - Matt Humphries | LinkedIn

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• Steve Bunting's journey into digital forensics began with an internal affairs investigation.
• The evolution of digital forensics has been marked by significant changes in technology and security.
• Comprehensive evidence gathering is crucial in forensic investigations.
• Innovative approaches, such as analyzing absence of evidence, can yield valuable insights.
• Expert testimony requires translating technical evidence into understandable language for juries.
• Biometrics are becoming increasingly important in accessing mobile devices.
• The sheer volume of digital evidence presents challenges for forensic examiners.
• Collaboration and cross-jurisdictional efforts are essential in modern forensics.
• Digital forensics training is vital for law enforcement personnel.
• Sharing knowledge and research within the forensic community is crucial for advancement.

• LinkedIn: Stephen Bunting - (1) Stephen Bunting | LinkedIn
• Bunting Digital Forensics, LLC: https://buntingdigitalforensics.us/
• Article: “The Art of Hunting for Nothing” (fsevents / quiet-time approach) - https://buntingdigitalforensics.us/insights/the-art-of-hunting-for-nothing/
• Author pages: EnCase Computer Forensics: The Official EnCE Study Guide and Mastering Windows Network Forensics and Investigation - Publications - Bunting Digital Forensics

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Stephen Ormston has a diverse background in management and communications within the security domain.

The Cyclops project focuses on the mental health and wellbeing of practitioners in cybercrime.

EU funding plays a crucial role in facilitating international collaboration on security initiatives.

Standardization in digital forensics can enhance efficiency but may also stifle innovation.

The For Mobile project produced significant innovations in mobile forensics and training.

Deepfakes present new challenges for law enforcement and require urgent attention.

Community engagement is essential for the success of security initiatives.

Practitioners need to be empowered to prioritize their own wellbeing.

Funding and resources are critical for sustaining long-term projects.

Building on previous foundations is key to driving future innovations.

• LinkedIn: Steven Ormston
• Polish Platform for Homeland Security: Home Page - Polish Platform for Homeland Security
• ENLETS community: https://enlets.eu
• FORMOBILE:  https://formobile-project.eu/
• EU-HYBNET:  https://euhybnet.eu/
• CYCLOPES: https://cyclopes-project.eu

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In this episode, Adam Firman interviews Sonja Ryan, founder of the Carly Ryan Foundation, who shares her personal journey following the tragic loss of her daughter Carly to an online predator. Sonja discusses the foundation's mission to promote online safety for children, the introduction of Carly's Law in Australia, and the importance of education and awareness in preventing online exploitation. The conversation also highlights the challenges posed by big tech companies, the need for preventative measures, and the importance of community support and mental health resources for victims.

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Be sure to connect with Sonya on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonya-ryan-oam-3243045b/

Check out the Carly Ryan Foundation website - https://www.carlyryanfoundation.com/

Sonya is also currently running a national research project that is being conducted by the Australian Institute of Criminology, please see the details below of how you can participate.

We are pleased to offer your school the opportunity to participate in a national research project being conducted by the Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC) in partnership with the Carly Ryan Foundation.

Funded by the National Office for Child Safety through the Australian Attorney General’s Department, this important study aims to evaluate the potential impacts of the Australian Government’s proposed Social Media Minimum Age Restrictions Bill, often referred to as the social media ban.

What’s involved?

We are inviting high schools across Australia to take part in a longitudinal, school-based survey involving students aged 11–15 years. The survey will explore students’ opinions, feelings and experiences, in relation to social media and online safety, including  any negative and harmful experiences they have had online.

What will the survey ask?

For schools/principals who would like to participate, we will send a copy of the survey and participant information sheet which includes more detail on types of questions (social media platforms used, opinions on the social media ban, experiences of being asked to send nude pictures, ‘deepfake’ images, being tricked into doing things online, and being threatened online). The survey will also provide students with contact details of services for support and advice about negative experiences online.

To support your school’s involvement, the Carly Ryan Foundation is offering a free, evidence-based online safety presentation to participating schools. These engaging sessions aim to empower students with practical knowledge and strategies to navigate the online world safely.

Uniquely, these sessions will be personally delivered by Sonya Ryan, Carly’s mum and the founder of the Carly Ryan Foundation.
Sonya stepped back from regular school presentations several years ago due to her international advocacy and advisory commitments, making this a rare and meaningful opportunity for students to hear directly from her. Her sessions are powerful, evidence-informed, and deeply impactful for young audiences.

Why participate?
• Empower students to have their voices heard in a project that could shape future legislation and policy.
• Support a nationwide effort to better understand young people’s online experiences.
• Access a rare and free expert-led online safety session delivered by one of Australia’s most respected voices in online safety.

Participating schools also receive free fact sheets and resources for the school, parents/carers and students, including how to navigate the social media ban, links to counselling/support, and other online safety education, plus an easy-read summary of results from the study.

Availability for these free presentations are limited. We are currently taking bookings in Term 4 - October 13th to December 12th, 2025.
We would love to discuss this opportunity with you further and provide additional information about how your school can get involved. Participation is voluntary and anonymous, and appropriate consent and ethical safeguards will be in place.

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Takeaways

Mental health support is crucial for law enforcement professionals.

Proactive approaches can prevent severe mental health issues.

Stigmas around mental health often prevent individuals from seeking help.

Therapy has evolved and can be more solution-focused today.

You don't need a diagnosis to seek therapy.

Recognizing signs of burnout is essential for mental health.

Digital forensics professionals face unique mental health challenges.

Coping strategies should include activities outside of work.

BWRT offers a new way to address trauma without re-traumatization.

Organizations must prioritize mental health support for their employees.

Connect with Hannah on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-bailey-40a85a1a5/

https://www.bluelightwellbeing.uk

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• Matteo Epifani has a rich background in digital forensics and education.
• The field of digital forensics has evolved significantly over the years.
• Timing is crucial in data preservation and extraction.
• Standards in digital forensics often lag behind technological advancements.
• Cross-validation with multiple tools is essential for accurate forensic analysis.
• Every case is unique and requires careful consideration and validation.
• Creating educational content in forensics is time-consuming and requires thorough validation.
• The challenges of obtaining data from US-based companies complicate investigations in Europe.
• Collaboration between law enforcement and forensic experts is improving but remains challenging.
• Matteo emphasizes the importance of passion and continuous learning in the field of digital forensics. Europe has a more in-depth approach to digital forensics.
• GDPR complicates investigations with private companies.
• Smartphones are increasingly cloud-dependent.
• Cross-border collaboration in forensics is still siloed.
• Cloud data is crucial for accessing historical information.
• The investigative mindset is essential for success in forensics.
• RAM in mobile devices is an unexplored field.
• Preserving data during investigations is vital.
• Teaching in forensics enhances personal knowledge.
• Sharing knowledge is key to advancing the field.

Mattia's blog - https://blog.digital-forensics.it

Connect with Mattia on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattiaepifani/

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• The emotional toll of digital investigations is significant.
• Mental health support for digital forensic investigators is lacking.
• Identifying stressors like PTSD and burnout is crucial.
• Exposure to traumatic content can have lasting effects.
• Transitioning from law enforcement to mental health advocacy is important.
• Technology can play a role in addressing child exploitation.
• Stigma around mental health in policing still exists.
• Open conversations about mental health are necessary.
• Online assessments for mental health are insufficient.
• Support systems in the NHS are more proactive than in law enforcement. The analogy of the driven tap illustrates how stressors accumulate.
• Unsupervised internet access poses significant risks to children.
• Parents should supervise children's online activities to protect them.
• Mental health support is crucial for those in digital forensics careers.
• Trauma in digital forensics is subjective and varies by individual.
• Preventative measures can help protect digital forensic investigators.
• Standardized guidelines are needed for mental health in law enforcement.
• Proactive mental health approaches can enhance resilience in police forces.
• Tailored mental health services are essential for digital forensics professionals.
• Investment in mental health support can reduce turnover in forensic roles.

Be sure to connect with Paul on LinkedIn - Paul Gullon-Scott Bsc MA MSc MSc FMBPSS | LinkedIn

Check out some of the articles mentioned by Paul, they can be found on Forensic Focus - Here is the latest article - Preventative Vs Reactive Approaches To Mental Health In Digital Forensics - Forensic Focus

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Key takeaways

• Sarah Simon has a strong background in law enforcement and digital forensics.
• Volunteering as a special constable allows professionals to stay connected to policing.
• Networking within law enforcement is crucial for sharing knowledge and experiences.
• Validation in digital forensics is essential for ensuring the reliability of evidence.
• AI presents both opportunities and challenges in forensic investigations.
• Sarah's journey to Deloitte highlights the importance of adaptability in career paths.
• Cyber incident response requires a different mindset compared to traditional investigations.
• The rapid advancement of technology complicates forensic examinations.
• Law enforcement faces increasing challenges due to the prevalence of digital evidence.
• Understanding the context of digital evidence is critical for accurate investigations. Budget constraints and resources are major challenges in forensics.
• The work in digital forensics is similar across sectors.
• Private sector investigations require a focus on revenue and scope.
• Investigators must avoid going down rabbit holes during investigations.
• There are many free resources available for those interested in forensics.
• Digital forensics is an exciting and constantly evolving field.
• Parents need to be proactive about online safety for their children.
• Computers provide a point of truth in investigations.
• The forensic community is supportive and encourages questions.
• Continuous learning is essential in the field of digital forensics.

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Connect with Sarah Simon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sesimon52/

Thank you for listening to Forensic Fix - a podcast brought to you from MSAB. 

To contact us about the show please visit Forensic Fix - MSAB

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