Analyzing Electrical Signals from Electronic Devices in Forensic Investigations (Riyam Thaer Ahmed)

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In today’s digital era, crime scenes are no longer limited to traditional evidence but often involve electronic devices such as mobile phones and computers. Among the advanced techniques in forensic science is the analysis of electrical signals generated by these devices, which can provide investigators with valuable insights into criminal activities.<br /><br />What is meant by electrical signal analysis?<br /><br />Electrical signals are the pulses or patterns produced by electronic devices during operation or when connecting to networks. These signals may include:<br /><br />Power consumption patterns.<br /><br />Electromagnetic emissions from the device.<br /><br />Signals related to wireless communications (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GSM).<br /><br />Role in forensic investigations:<br /><br />Locating the device: By tracking wireless signals, investigators can determine the location of a phone or computer during a crime.<br /><br />Establishing timelines: Analyzing power or communication records reveals when a device was switched on or off.<br /><br />Detecting tampering: Abnormal signal patterns may indicate attempts to delete data or apply interference.<br /><br />Linking suspects to crimes: The presence of a device’s signals at a crime scene provides strong circumstantial evidence of its owner’s involvement.<br /><br />Challenges:<br /><br />The need for highly precise and specialized equipment to capture and analyze signals.<br /><br />Signal similarities across different devices, which may cause ambiguity.<br /><br />Requirement for skilled experts to decode and interpret the data accurately.<br /><br />Thus, electrical signal analysis is a sophisticated forensic tool that adds a new dimension to digital evidence, enabling investigators to uncover hidden details that cannot be detected through traditional methods.<br />Al-Mustaqbal University, the first university in Iraq