Brett Shavers joins the Forensic Focus Podcast to discuss the critical "investigative mindset" needed for effective digital forensics. Drawing from his unique background in undercover law enforcement operations and his transition to digital forensics, Brett shares invaluable insights on why technical skills alone aren't enough in DFIR.

Digging into practical challenges with hosts Si and Desi, Brett tackles head-on why DFIR isn't an entry-level field, the importance of understanding human behavior behind digital evidence, and how to approach cases with both technical precision and investigative strategy. He discusses his journey authoring several influential books including "DFIR Investigative Mindset," "Placing the Suspect Behind the Keyboard," and the definitive guide to X-Ways Forensics.

Whether you're a seasoned investigator or considering a career in digital forensics, Brett offers practical wisdom on balancing technical proficiency with investigative thinking, effective communication of complex findings, and why we should remember we're not investigating computers—we're investigating people who use computers.

#digitalforensics #dfir

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

02:01 Brett Shavers' Background in Law Enforcement

03:33 Transition to Forensics

05:03 Challenges in DFIR

07:17 Educational Pathways and Industry Insights

12:51 X-Ways Forensics and Tool Proficiency

16:58 Investigative Mindset and New Book

27:46 The Importance of Education in Cybersecurity

28:04 Challenges in Teaching Investigative Skills

28:59 Real-World Training Scenarios

30:38 Understanding the Human Element in Cybersecurity

35:35 The Role of Communication in Cybersecurity

42:59 Technical Proficiency and Case Management

47:32 Continuous Improvement and Collaboration

53:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Show Notes

Brett's Ramblings - https://www.brettshavers.com/

DFIR Training - https://www.dfir.training/

Brett's Books - https://brettshavers.com/my-books

Brandon Epstein joins the Forensic Focus Podcast to discuss the evolving landscape of digital forensics and the growing role of artificial intelligence in evidence analysis. Brandon shares his journey from being a major crimes detective in New Jersey to co-founding Medex Forensics (later acquired by Magnet), and discusses his current roles both at Magnet Forensics and as chair of the Scientific Working Group on Digital Evidence (SWGDE).

In this wide-ranging conversation, he explains how AI is being responsibly implemented in forensic tools like Magnet Axiom's Copilot feature and Magnet Verify, highlighting the critical distinction between using AI for investigative leads versus evidentiary conclusions. Brandon also dives into the challenges of media authentication in an era of deepfakes, the shift toward cloud-based forensic platforms, and provides a preview of his upcoming "AI Unpacked" webinar series.

#digitalforensics #dfir #ai

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:32 Life in Nashville and User Summit Highlights

02:07 The Importance of Networking at Conferences

04:32 Brandon's Journey to Magnet Forensics

10:17 AI and Digital Forensics

16:02 AI Unpacked Webinar Series

21:40 Scientific Working Group on Digital Evidence (SWGDE)

33:16 The Collaborative Spirit in Forensics

34:45 Magnet's Expanding Product Line

36:14 The Future of Cloud in Digital Forensics

39:08 Challenges and Benefits of Cloud Adoption

45:26 The Role of AI and Cloud in Conferences

46:09 Magnet's Acquisition of DVR Examiner

48:47 The Importance of Video Authenticity

52:29 Emerging Technologies in Forensics

58:04 Personal Insights and Closing Remarks

Show Notes

Magnet Forensics - https://www.magnetforensics.com

AI Unpacked - https://www.magnetforensics.com/ai-unpacked/?utm_source=ForensicFocus&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=UTMC-0000077

SWGDE - https://www.swgde.org

Hosts Si and Desi welcome back Robert Fried, winner of the Top Professional Investigator award. Rob discusses his new book, ‘Forensic Data Collection 2.0,’ and shares insights on the evolving landscape of digital forensics.

The conversation explores the importance of documentation in forensic investigations, balancing technical skills with human interaction, and meeting the challenges of AI and emerging technologies. Rob emphasizes building rapport with clients and stakeholders while mentoring the next generation of digital forensic examiners.

Rob shares his fascinating journey from law enforcement training to private sector work, highlighting how the human element remains essential even as technology evolves. He also discusses his collaborative work with legendary NYPD detective Ralph Friedman and his connections with tech pioneers including Frank Canova (inventor of the first smartphone) and Neil Papworth (sender of the first text message) who endorsed his book.

Whether you're a seasoned digital forensics professional or just starting in the field, this episode offers valuable insights into the documentation, methodology, and people skills that make for successful investigations in today's rapidly changing digital landscape.

#digitalforensics #dfir #investigator

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:08 Achievements and Industry Involvement

03:37 Challenges and Changes in Forensics

07:57 Writing and Teaching Forensics

16:09 Human Element in Investigations

30:30 Building Trust and Professional Relationships

34:13 The Importance of Hands-On Learning

34:58 Teaching and Learning from the Younger Generation

36:28 Scientific Methodology in Problem Solving

38:21 The Role of Documentation in Digital Forensics

43:23 Building a Collaborative Community

46:27 Challenges and Innovations in Digital Forensics

49:20 The Human Element in Forensic Investigations

55:25 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

Show Notes

Forensics By Fried - https://forensicsbyfried.com

Forensic Data Collections 2.0 - https://forensicsbyfried.com/books

Robert Fried LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertbfried

Forensic Data Collections 2.0 LinkedIn Group - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13178163

Top Professional Investigator - https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7259530724997742592