Telephone Investigation (Electronic Operations) Flashcards
Telephone investigator.
The position of the telephone investigator is a crucial role in any major enquiry and should be among the first appointments.
Cell phone identifiers.
The phone number is contained in or on the SIM (System Identification Module) card. The other way of real time tracking and/or interception is by using the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identification) otherwise known as the handpiece.
Text message storage.
Telecom, Vodafone and 2Degress store all text content for an extended but varying period of time. While a surveillance device warrant is required to obtain text message content and associated call and SMS data in real-time, stored text messages can be obtained through a section 71 Production Order. Both providers have the capability to trap and store text messages on request until a search warrant can be obtained.
The first 24 hours is most important. The following key activities should be undertaken by the telephone investigator during the first 24 hours:
‘Trapping’ or ‘pre loading’ phone data.
At the telecommunications service provider (TSP). This is a daily continuous process for new numbers. Be alert to cellular telephone numbers as they are identified. It is essential that data is ‘trapped’ at the TSP at the instant a new cellular phone is identified.
TSP Liaison.
Establish an effective working relationship with the TSP. Find one person at your TSP to deal with the inquiry – ownership is critical.
Draft a production order application early.
A production order application outlines the backbone of the enquiry. This will form the basis of all future production order, and potentially search warrant applications. Ensure it is updated as the enquiry progresses, including the results of previous production orders and/or search warrants executed.
No Search warrant required for Emergency situations.
For “hot offences” (e.g. missing or kidnapped people) or other emergency situations, police can obtain information from TSP’s on “public interest” grounds – no search warrant required.
