Nepal: ICITAP Conducts Training and Operational Support in Conjunction with Nepal Digital Forensics Lab Leading to Several Operational Improvements

From March 1 to March 20, ICITAP provided training to the Nepal Digital Forensics Lab (DFL). Sixteen attendees successfully completed this training on analyzing iOS devices from a basic to advanced level along with advanced SQLite training. During this training, ICITAP created an evidence intake workflow in alignment with industry best practices. During the visit the new workflow was mapped out, presented, and approved by DFL management. ICITAP also redesigned the evidence room and the changes were approved by DFL management. Procurement of evidence room materials underway. ICITAP implemented security controls to track unauthorized personnel entering the building. A serious gap identified during a previous initial assessment. Subsequent evidence room personnel tracking in progress. ICITAP created and provided mechanisms for both. ICITAP supplied an electronic case/evidence tracking system, which provides a mechanism for case assignment, device tracking in the evidence room, and tracking of turn-around-time per device and examiner. This will help demonstrate the improved ability of the Lab thanks to ICITAPs influence, further our completion of our IAA obligations. ICITAP finalized a vase prioritization and case acceptance memo created and under review by DFL management for distribution to Nepal Police utilizing the DFL. Finally, ICITAP created an evidence consent memo created for acceptance by any unit submitting evidence to the DFL. This is necessary as the legal authority to perform analysis does not cover damage or destruction of digital device in the analysis process. This is an issue for the DFL; this consent memo must be accepted by unit submitting evidence to the DFL. The memo is currently under review by the DFL management for distribution to all Nepal Police Headquarters. ICITAP-Nepal is grateful for the support of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).