Computer forensics lecture

The undercover world of computer forensics will be revealed at a lecture at Edge Hill University.

Representatives from one of the UK's leaders in the field will give guests and students an insight into the complex world which uses hidden computer data to solve major crimes.

The discipline, also know as digital forensics or communications forensics, aims to identify, extract and preserve the electronic footprints criminals leave behind which may become vital evidence in a court case. The sources range from a wide assortment of media - from computer hard disks or SatNav devices, to the memory contents of mobile phones.

Afentis Forensics, which has offices in London, Liverpool and Manchester, specialises in criminal cases involving the most complex of hi-tech fraud, hacking offences and obscene imagery. Recent cases the company has been involved with include the murder of schoolboy Rhys Jones in Liverpool and the conviction of Merseyside drugs baron Curtis Warren in Jersey.

Ross Patel, Director of Afentis, will be coming to the University's Business School to present his lecture, entitled 'Digital Evidence - Murder & Drug Conspiracies'. His visit builds on the links his company has already made with the University - Afentis has offered three postgraduate placement projects for students.

Michael Banford, Enterprise Co-ordinator in the Business School, said: "This is a fascinating area of criminal investigations and we are delighted Mr Patel is coming to the campus to talk to staff and students.

"We are keen to build more of these valuable links with external organisations as they give our students a real insight to the potential areas of research and career opportunities which are available."

The lecture takes place in room B106 on Tuesday 23 February from 1pm-2pm. Places are limited so book now by emailing michael.banford@edgehill.ac.uk.