EWJ Dec 2023 - Journal - Page 73
Understanding Cell Site Analysis
in Criminal Investigations
At IntaForensics our cell site experts undertake high-profile criminal cases for both prosecution
and defence clients, giving them a broad, complete and unbiased perspective on the movements
of a mobile device.
With the increasing prevalence of mobile phones in
society, but also in criminal cases, understanding cell
site analysis can be crucial in an investigation. In this
article we will explore cell site analysis, and how this
type of evidence can assist in your case:
• It may help demonstrate that a device could have
been present in an area including an incident location
or crime scene.
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 twelve 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.
• However, it could also suggest otherwise – potentially supporting an alibi.
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 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.
All work produced is integrated seamlessly in a
technical report, with combined call schedules and
referencing for all call data records as part of the investigation. These call mapping documents are easy
to comprehend and exhibit visual clarity to demonstrate cell site analysis and cell detections.
Together with Radio Frequency Propagation Surveys
(RFPS), cell site analysis can place or map a mobile
device in a geographical area, at a certain date and
time using mobile call data records.
EXPERT WITNESS JOURNAL
71
DECEMBER 2023