In this episode of Truth in Data, we explore the critical but often overlooked role of board-level repair in digital forensics. Hosts Jessica, Kim, and Debbie are joined by iPad Rehab’s Jessa Jones for a candid conversation about hardware extractions, training challenges, and the impact of maintaining hands-on skills. From blown-up devices to steady soldering hands, this episode is packed with insights for forensic practitioners navigating the intersection of hardware and investigative workflows.

Resources mentioned:

• Forensic Analysis of Water Damaged Mobile Devices: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1742287619301586?via%3Dihub
• SWDGE Best Practices for Handling Damaged Digital Storage Devices: https://www.swgde.org/14-f-002-2/
• Jessa Jones Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPjp41qeXe1o_lp1US9TpWA
• Water Damaged Devices - Evidence Locker Corrosion by Steve Watson: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/ceic2015-watson-wdd001final/49745786#32

In this episode of Truth in Data, hosts Kim and Debbie explore the effects of the CSI effect: the misconception that forensic evidence is instantly courtroom-ready. They share firsthand insights into how this false narrative influences jurors, victims, and even criminal behavior. The conversation tackles everything from mobile device extraction challenges to communicating with victims’ families during long investigations: all while emphasizing transparency and the critical role of empathy in law enforcement.

🧬 What You'll Learn:

Why the CSI effect misleads the public about how crime is actually investigated

The burden of digital forensics: data overload, backlogs, and tool limitations

How law enforcement can communicate more effectively with victims’ families

The importance of transparency, trust-building, and realistic public education

The growing sophistication of criminals, sometimes influenced by crime shows

From locked mobile devices that can take years to access, to rigorous peer review and validation protocols, this episode is a reality check on the true pace and complexity of criminal investigations. Be sure to stay connected with Hexordia by subscribing to our newsletter!

In this episode, we examine the evolving tactics used by digital fraudsters to exploit trust, urgency, and emotion. From sextortion and phishing to disaster relief scams and impersonation ploys, these schemes are growing more convincing and more damaging.

We’ll break down:

• “Pig butchering” scams and high-yield investment traps

• Fake product sales and non-existent services

• Phishing through invoices and spoofed payment links

• Sextortion resurgence and emotional blackmail

• Off-platform buyer scams and impersonated payment requests

• Fraudulent fundraising tied to disasters

• Urgent pleas involving loved ones in trouble

• Requests to confirm personal or financial information

• Look-alike websites and form jacking threats

This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in cybersecurity, digital forensics, online safety, or fraud prevention. Learn how to protect yourself and others from the latest social engineering tactics and financial scams.

Welcome back to the Truth in Data podcast! In this episode, Jessica, Kim, and Debbie dive deep into the number one question they receive: "How do I break into Digital Forensics and Incident Response (DFIR)?"

If you're an aspiring digital forensics professional, a student planning your studies, someone considering a career change, or even an experienced investigator looking to expand your skills, this video is for you! We share our candid insights, practical advice, and a structured framework to help you navigate your entry into this dynamic field.

Key Resources & Tools Mentioned:

• Hexordia Blog Post: "Pathway to Digital Forensics" by Jessica Hyde - https://www.hexordia.com/blog/pathway-to-digital-forensics
• DFIR Diva: https://dfirdiva.com/
• Hexordia Free Courses: https://jessicalhyde.graphy.com/
• Cyber 5W Free Courses: https://cyber5w.com/
• Forensics Tools Examples: Autopsy, X-Ways, Cellebrite, Axiom, GrayKey, MSAB.
• Certifications Discussed: CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+
• "This Week in Forensics" by Phil Moore: https://thisweekin4n6.com/author/randomaccess3/
• Digital Forensics Discord Server
• Organizations: HTCIA, IASIS, WiCS (Women in Cybersecurity).
• Certifications Discussed: CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+.
• Forensics Tools Examples: Autopsy, X-Ways, Cellebrite, Axiom, GrayKey, MSAB
• Programming Languages: Python, C-sharp, PowerShell.

🎙 Episode 7 – Bytes and Banter: The Value of Networking in DFIRHosted by Jessica Hyde and Debbie GarnerIn this episode of Truth in Data, Jessica and Debbie unpack the power of community and connection in the world of Digital Forensics and Incident Response (DFIR). Whether you're new to the field or a longtime pro, the right relationships can open doors, deepen your knowledge, and shape your career.They explore where DFIR conversations are happening—across platforms like LinkedIn, Bluesky, X, Threads, Mastodon, and the Digital Forensics Discord Server. You’ll hear actionable tips on how to add value: start a blog, post your research, ask smart questions, and be intentional in your outreach.The hosts also dive into conference networking strategy—from Techno Security and NW ICAC to DFRWS, Black Hat, DEFCON, and beyond. Learn why taking cards (not just handing them out), writing notes, and following up on someone’s preferred communication platform makes all the difference.Plus, they highlight the importance of partnering for research or speaking opportunities and doing your homework before reaching out. Shout-outs include the Digital Forensics Now podcast and several must-attend upcoming events in 2025.✨ Events Mentioned:Techno Security East – June 3–5DFRWS US – July 22–25SANS DFIR Summit – July 24–31Black Hat USA – Aug 2–7DCAC – Aug 3–7DEFCON – Aug 7–10NW ICAC – Oct 6–10…and more!Whether you’re looking to grow your network, find collaborators, or just stay current, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate the DFIR community with confidence and purpose.🎧 Tune in now to turn those bytes into meaningful banter.

Host: Jessica Hyde | Guest: Sarah Hayes

In this eye-opening episode, Jessica Hyde welcomes digital forensics pro Sarah Hayes to explore the strange, fascinating, and ever-growing world of Internet of Things (IoT) forensics. From smartwatches to smart fridges, we ask:
What happens when your everyday devices become key witnesses?

This week’s discussion dives into:

• The Hexordia IoT Course and DOJ OSU On-Demand Course for U.S. law enforcement
• The SANS Facebook Portal talk and its forensic implications
• Nicole Odom’s research: Forensic Inspection of Sensitive User Data and Artifacts from Smartwatch Wearable Devices
• The State of IoT in 2024, with 18.8 billion connected devices and counting
• The Oura Ring analysis form from BSides ROC
• Revisiting “Alexa, Are You Skynet?” with Brian Moran and Jessica Hyde
• How Fitbit data helped solve the Nicole VanDerHyden murder case
  

Whether you're new to IoT or deep into device data, this episode delivers practical insights, cautionary tales, and expert guidance for navigating the wild world of connected tech.

🎧 Subscribe and listen now to Truth in Data — where devices tell stories, and we decode the truth.

Episode 5 – Digital Forensics Overload: How to Escape the Backlog
Hosted by Jessica Hyde, Debbie Garner, and Kim Bradley

In Episode 5 of the Truth in Data Podcast, hosts Jessica, Debbie, and Kim take on one of the most pressing challenges in digital forensics today: the growing backlog of digital evidence. Drawing from Cellebrite’s 2025 Industry Trends Survey, the discussion explores what’s fueling the overload and how agencies are (or aren’t) responding.

The conversation also touches on a broader trend—how the systemic delays once seen in rape kit processing are now emerging in digital evidence across multiple states, including Tennessee and Kentucky. It's a clear signal that forensic science is shifting, and the stakes are rising. With references to Mark Scanlon’s white paper on data deduplication, Deloitte’s role in police exam support, and the Nashville MNPD case study on backlog reduction through automation, this episode offers both insight and actionable ideas.

Whether you're in the lab or managing a digital forensics team, this episode brings sharp perspective and practical strategies for tackling the backlog.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Cellebrite 2025 Industry Trends Report

• Magnet Forensics: Nashville MNPD Backlog Case Study

• Mark Scanlon’s Paper: Battling the Digital Forensic Backlog through Data Deduplication

• Magnet Forensics: State of Enterprise DFIR – 2025 Report

• Deloitte's role in addressing law enforcement exam backlogs

🎙️ Truth in Data – Episode Featuring Alexis BrignoniJoin Hexordia’s Jessica Hyde, Kim Bradley, and Debbie Garner as they sit down with the legendary Alexis Brignoni—sworn agent, examiner, open-source developer, and host of This Week in 4n6—for a powerful conversation on the Truth in Data Podcast. This episode dives into the essential role open-source tools play in digital forensics and why Alexis is a passionate advocate for their use and development.From the origins of LEAPPs to his popular Python YouTube workshops, Alexis shares his journey, the “why” behind building community tools, and offers insights into how examiners can embrace open-source resources—even if they’re hesitant. The hosts explore his favorite OS tool (that he didn’t create), the work-life balance of wearing multiple hats, and the delicate boundary between investigator and examiner in forensic workflows.💡 Key Topics:What are open-source tools and why do they matter in DFIR?Encouragement for hesitant usersBalancing professional roles while staying active in the communityWhy Python? Why YouTube? Why now?Truth in data: a story of discovery that only Alexis can tell🔗 Resources Mentioned:-GitHub: https://github.com/-DFIR Python Study Group: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLz61osc7c3OqQ_xBZJbzZdIkVd8HnxLmC&si=ZuQrPDLMBt9vD0jO-LEAPPs GitHub: https://github.com/abrignoni-LEAPPs.org: http://leapps.org/-IACIS Advanced Mobile Course: https://www.iacis.com/training/amdf-advanced-mobile-device-forensics/This episode is packed with practical advice, technical knowledge, and a reminder of why community-driven tools are a cornerstone of modern digital forensics.