DME ResourcesDigital Forensics Certification Board - Certification Phase II Begins June 14th
ORLANDO, Florida, June 4, 2010 – The Digital Forensics Certification Board (DFCB), an independent certifications organization for digital evidence examiners, today announced plans to launch a fully automated application process to keep up with the demand for this significant certification.
On March 2nd, 2009, the DFCB officially launched its highly anticipated certification program that offers two levels of professional designations and its limited “Founders Process” for initial certifications. The DFCB offers Digital Forensics Certified Practitioner (DFCP) and Digital Forensics Certified Associate (DFCA) designations from its independent, community-driven organization. With one hundred thirty five (135) certified individuals thus far, the manual application process was not optimal, given the burgeoning demand!
Facing a critical need for certification in this discipline, a congressionally mandated report, released February 18th from the National Academy of Sciences and published by the National Research Council, finds serious deficiencies in the nation's forensic science system and calls for major reforms and new research. Rigorous and mandatory certification programs for forensic scientists are currently lacking, the report says, as are strong standards and protocols for analyzing and reporting on evidence.
In keeping with National Institute of Justice’s mission to advance scientific research, development, and evaluation to enhance the administration of justice and public safety, the DFCB was developed with funding from the National Institute of Justice (NIJ).
Applications are currently being accepted from June 14, 2010. The online process will require the candidate to submit all required information within 60 days from start of the application process. These candidates will assist in the creation of formal examination content and processes. The DFCB’s Phase II Certification Process offers those who have several active years of experience in the digital forensics discipline the opportunity to become certified by demonstrating extensive expertise and experience.
DFCB Certification Process
The DFCP or DFCA designation is only available to Digital Evidence Professionals with a minimum of 5-years experience related to digital evidence or digital forensics. Those seeking the DFCP must demonstrate 2 or more years of practical experience in the last 3 years. Those seeking the DFCA are not required to demonstrate practical experience over the last 3 years.
Phase II candidates must:
• Score a minimum number of points on the DFCB Assessment Scoring Sheet and provide supporting documentation
• Meet the DFCB Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct
• Pass a background review
• Develop 15 usable test questions with multiple-choice answers. Question and answers will follow the instructions posted on the website.
• Take an anonymous non-scored test sampling potential test questions
For complete Phase II Process requirements, additional information and the link to the online application process, visit http://www.dfcb.org.
“The DFCB continues to see immense support and involvement from both private and public digital forensic practitioners,” said Sam Guttman President of the Digital Forensics Certification Board. “We wish to particularly thank the NIJ for their ongoing support as the DFCB expands its program and asserts its unique value within the digital forensic field.”
Once the Phase II Process concludes, those seeking certifications will be required to apply to sit for a comprehensive exam, among other requirements.
