In January 2023, MSc Cyber Security and Forensic Information Technology students at the University of Portsmouth took to the docks. In a packed courtroom, they defended their findings on a complex criminal case involving child pornography and drug distribution.
The mock trial was a key element of their course assessments. In groups, students drew on all their skills and knowledge to collate evidence for the defence or prosecution.
They investigated the accused using a range of forensic methods. This included extracting data from computer, cloud, mobile, and tower devices and storage.
The courtroom was populated by staff and students from the University’s Technology and Criminology departments. In front of this insightful audience, defence and prosecution teams presented and defended their findings to the ‘judge’ and opposing team.
‘At Portsmouth, we are fortunate to use resources such as our replica courtroom and state-of-the-art equipment to teach a wide spectrum of digital forensics concepts. Using a variety of tools and techniques for computer, cloud, mobile and tower forensic investigations, students learn how to extract evidence from those environments and defend their findings in a court of law,’ said principal lecturer, Dr Mo Adda.
The forensic field is evolving every day. We incorporate those advances in the course and prepare students for the future.