Our IT forensics services for public authorities
Since 2015, LanCologne has been providing a comprehensive and diverse range of forensic services to law enforcement agencies and civil courts throughout Germany. Technological progress and the increasing use of digital devices and services have led to forensic analyses of digital data becoming an essential part of modern investigative work. The spectrum ranges from the examination of PCs and mobile phones to the analysis of networks, servers and storage media. In all these activities, compliance with legal requirements takes centre stage, particularly with regard to data protection and the usability of the results in court. LanCologne's work is characterised by the utmost care, technical expertise and accurate compliance with legal regulations.
Scope of forensic services
LanCologne offers a comprehensive range of services in the field of forensic analysis of digital devices and systems. Our work includes the following activities, among others:
- Forensic analysis of PCs, mobile phones, smartphones and tablets
Digital evidence found on these devices plays a crucial role in criminal investigations. The seizure and analysis of this data is always carried out in strict compliance with the relevant provisions of German criminal procedure law (StPO). Sections 94, 98 and 102 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, for example, regulate the seizure and search of evidence, always ensuring that the rights of the persons concerned are protected.
- Investigation of servers and network systems
Server and network infrastructures play a central role in today's digital world. Forensic investigations of such systems are of crucial importance, especially in cases of white-collar crime, hacker attacks or data leaks. The regulations on telecommunications surveillance (Section 100a StPO) and online searches (Section 100b StPO) also come into play here. These interventions are subject to strict legal requirements, which we strictly adhere to in every investigation.
- Backing up and analysing data from cloud services
With the growing relocation of data to cloud services, the forensic analysis of cloud data is becoming increasingly relevant. Precise compliance with data protection regulations is essential. The EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the German Federal Data Protection Act (BDSG) regulate the handling of personal data, and LanCologne ensures that these requirements are complied with every time cloud data is backed up and analysed, especially in cross-border cases.
- Analysing databases and log files
Databases and log files often contain important information that sheds light on systematic offences or misuse. This data is analysed in accordance with the strict requirements of the GDPR in order to protect the integrity and confidentiality of personal data.
- Examination of all data carriers and storage media
From hard drives to USB sticks and memory cards - LanCologne offers a comprehensive analysis of all types of storage media. Strict attention is paid to compliance with the IT Security Act and the relevant data protection guidelines to ensure that the data is lawfully backed up and analysed.
- Court-proof documentation and preparation of the results
A central component of our work is the complete documentation of evidence in order to ensure its usability in court. In order to stand up in court, evidence must be collected and documented in accordance with the provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure (StPO) and the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO). LanCologne ensures that the results are carefully prepared in a way that is comprehensible to both lawyers and technical laypersons. This court-proof preparation forms the basis for well-founded court decisions.
A particular quality factor of LanCologne is the detailed explanation of the forensic analysis results in the expert reports. This ensures that even complex digital data is prepared in a comprehensible manner and provides investigators and lawyers with a precise basis for case processing. Our experts are in constant dialogue with our clients to ensure optimal coordination and to fulfil the requirements of each case in the best possible way.
Data protection and legal requirements
The protection of personal data is a top priority in forensic analysis. LanCologne guarantees that all services are provided in accordance with the GDPR. We pay particular attention to compliance with the principles of data minimisation, purpose limitation and data security. Any processing of personal data is carried out lawfully in the context of the investigation, as provided for in Article 6 GDPR.
In addition to the GDPR, the provisions of the BDSG are also important, especially when it comes to the processing of personal data within Germany. LanCologne ensures that all forensic work is carried out by trained employees who have been audited by the relevant authorities in order to fulfil the high legal requirements.
Expertise and technologies used
Modern IT forensics requires in-depth technical knowledge and the use of advanced software tools. LanCologne has extensive expertise in the operating systems of Microsoft (Windows), Apple (macOS), Linux and the mobile platforms of Android and iOS. To carry out our forensic work, we rely on state-of-the-art software solutions provided by leading manufacturers such as X-Ways Forensics, MobilEdit, Belkasoft and others. These tools enable us to precisely secure and analyse digital data that can be used in court.
Security and confidentiality
LanCologne attaches great importance to the security of its offices and the protection of evidence. Our offices are protected against break-ins by state-of-the-art security systems and are monitored around the clock to ensure the safety of evidence. Furthermore, all staff involved in analysing evidence are fully trained and vetted by law enforcement agencies. These measures guarantee that all our work meets the highest security standards and complies with legal requirements.
With a wide range of forensic services, in-depth expertise and state-of-the-art technology, LanCologne is your reliable partner for the forensic examination of digital evidence.