Behind the Screens: A Day in the Life of a Digital Forensics Investigator

Digital forensics plays a critical yet often unseen role in modern policing. From uncovering vital evidence hidden in mobile phones and computers to piecing together timelines that can make or break a case, those working in Digital Forensics Units (DFUs) are at the heart of many criminal investigations. In this blog, we speak to James, one of our Digital Forensics Investigators, about his journey, his day-to-day role, and what makes the job both rewarding and challenging.

What does your current role in the Digital Forensics Unit involve, and what does a typical day look like for you?

I joined Thames Valley Police in March as a Digital Forensics Investigator. Before that, I worked for the Metropolitan Police as a Digital Forensics Technician. My career in policing began with Hertfordshire Constabulary, where I worked as a Forensic Imaging Analyst.

My role now primarily involves the forensic examination of digital devices, particularly computers and mobile phones. I acquire data from these devices, process and analyse it according to the needs of investigating officers, and then produce reports and statements summarising my findings, which often form part of the evidence presented in court.

No two days are quite the same. Some days involve urgent examinations, such as downloading and processing data from a high-priority phone. Other days may include more complex tasks like mobile phone repairs or in-depth analysis of acquired data. This means turning forensic files into something meaningful, such as retrieving call logs or message content, that officers and the courts can easily understand. My day often ends with report writing, assisting colleagues, or peer reviewing work before it leaves the unit.

What inspired you to pursue a career in digital forensics, and how did you get started?

I’ve always been drawn to meaningful work and have been technically minded, but I also wanted a role that offered some creativity, which led me to digital forensics. I started in audio-video work, enhancing images, compiling court-ready video compilations, and handling CCTV footage. That evolved into a role as a Digital Forensics Technician, and from the moment I examined my first phone, it has captivated my interest ever since.

What is the most rewarding part of your job, and what’s the most challenging?

The most rewarding part of the job is when you are examining a job and you find that one or more pieces of data which then suddenly stings together a picture of what’s happened on/with a device, relaying the findings to officers and just knowing that it will in some way make a difference, both for the officers job and to someone’s life.

The most challenging aspect is, of course, thinking up solutions to technical problems that are encountered during an examination. Sometimes there isn’t a solution, and it’s knowing when to persevere and when to call it quits.

How does your work contribute to criminal investigations and the wider goals of policing?

My work directly impacts criminal investigations. Everyone carries a phone these days, and we examine victims’ and suspects’ devices from a variety of crime types. The evidence that I or the DF Unit produces can sometimes be the key evidence for conviction and will be carried through an entire investigation. This helps deliver a better-quality service to the public, which is a key objective of TVP.

What advice would you give to someone considering a role in digital forensics?

The role is incredibly self-rewarding in my personal opinion; it is filled with continuous learning every day. I started my career in 2018, and just as technology is always evolving, so will your role in digital forensics, so always be prepared to adapt. The perk, however, is that this adaptation is what keeps things fresh and exciting, and so no two days will ever be the same!

Can you share something interesting or unexpected about your role that most people might not know?

Through this role, you will do a surprising amount of networking with people from other forces / private companies. In my opinion, this has only made me more confident and skilful as a forensic examiner.

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Learn More About Digital Forensics

Digital forensics is a crucial part of modern policing, combining technology and investigation to uncover the truth. To learn more about the work we do and career opportunities in this field, visit our Forensics page.