Digital Forensics Investigations
When the Truth Lives Inside a Device
Digital forensics is the disciplined recovery, preservation, and analysis of electronic evidence from computers, phones, email, and cloud accounts so findings can withstand scrutiny in court. Redbeard Intelligence & Investigations, a Florida-licensed agency serving clients nationwide and internationally, conducts forensically sound examinations that document every action through a defensible chain of custody.
Why a Defensible Digital Forensics Process Matters
People contact us when the truth lives inside a device and the stakes are high — these are the situations we see most often.
- Trade Secret Theft
A former employee may have taken trade secrets or client lists on the way out.
- Deleted Messages
Texts, photos, or emails relevant to a legal matter may still be recoverable.
- Document Tampering
Allegations of backdating or falsified records call for a documented forensic timeline.
- Unauthorized Access
Business email compromise or insider misuse needs to be traced and documented quickly.
- Custody & Family Law
Custody matters where communications or location history are disputed often turn on device evidence.
- Wiped Devices
We can often verify whether a device was wiped, and when it happened.
Who Digital Forensics Investigations Help
Our examinations serve three broad groups, each with distinct needs:
- Attorneys and litigation teams who need admissible evidence for civil disputes, family law, employment claims, or criminal defense, along with an examiner who can explain findings clearly.
- Businesses and in-house counsel responding to data theft, departing-employee investigations, intellectual-property loss, fraud, or suspected policy violations.
- Individuals and families confronting harassment, stalking, infidelity concerns, or disputes where a single device or account holds the answer.
Situations That Call for a Digital Forensics Investigator
People contact us when the truth lives inside a device and the stakes are high. Common situations include:
- Suspected theft of trade secrets or client lists by a former employee.
- Deleted text messages, photos, or emails that may be relevant to a legal matter.
- Allegations of document tampering, backdating, or falsified records.
- Unauthorized account access, business email compromise, or insider misuse.
- Family-law and custody matters where communications or location history matter.
- Verifying whether a device was wiped, and when.
What We Can Examine
We work across the platforms where modern evidence actually lives, always within the bounds of lawful, authorized access.
Computers and Storage — Windows, macOS, and Linux systems, external drives, USB media, and solid-state drives, covering deleted files, file histories, USB connection artifacts, internet activity, and traces left by installed programs.
Mobile Phones and Tablets — iOS and Android devices, including messages, call logs, photos, application data, and, where recoverable, deleted content.
Email and Cloud — mailboxes, cloud storage, and collaboration accounts, examined with proper authorization to trace access, sharing, and deletion events.
What to Provide
The faster we receive the right materials, the sooner we can begin. Helpful items include:
- The physical device, or a written description if it must remain in place.
- Passcodes, passwords, or account credentials you are legally entitled to share.
- Proof of ownership or authorization to examine the device or account.
- A short timeline of events and the specific questions you need answered.
- Any relevant dates, usernames, file names, or keywords.
If you are unsure whether you may lawfully grant access, tell us — we will help you and your attorney confirm the proper footing before anything is touched.
How the Digital Forensics Process Works
1. Preservation. We first secure the evidence in its current state, halting changes and documenting the device’s condition, identifiers, and how it came into our custody.
2. Imaging. We create a verified forensic image — a bit-for-bit copy — and confirm it with hash values, so all analysis happens on the copy and never on the original.
3. Analysis. Using industry-standard tools alongside careful manual review, we recover available data, reconstruct timelines, and test each finding against the questions at hand.
4. Reporting. We deliver clear, sourced findings and can explain our methodology to non-technical readers, opposing counsel, or a court.
Deliverables
- A written forensic report describing scope, methods, and factual findings.
- Supporting exhibits such as recovered files, message threads, and activity timelines.
- Hash verification and chain-of-custody documentation.
- Optional declarations, affidavits, or expert testimony where we are engaged to provide them.
We report what the evidence shows — we do not shape conclusions to fit a preferred outcome.
Confidentiality, Legal Compliance & Chain of Custody
Redbeard handles every matter discreetly. We examine only devices and accounts you are legally authorized to access, and we decline requests that would require unlawful interception or unauthorized entry. From intake to final report, we log who handled each item, when, and why, preserving a chain of custody that keeps evidence defensible. This measured, lawful approach protects both your matter and its admissibility.
Why Choose Redbeard
- Licensed and accountable: a Florida agency operating under, serving clients nationwide and internationally.
- Evidence-first discipline: imaging, hashing, and documentation on every engagement.
- Clear communication: findings written for decision-makers, not just technicians.
- Discretion: sensitive matters handled quietly and professionally.
- Coordination: we work smoothly alongside your attorney or corporate counsel.
Cost Factors
Every examination is scoped to the matter, so cost depends on several variables:
- The number and type of devices or accounts involved.
- Data volume and how much recovery or deep analysis is required.
- Urgency and whether expedited handling is requested.
- Whether written declarations or testimony are needed.
We provide a clear estimate after a brief consultation so you can make an informed decision before work begins.
Related Services
Digital forensics often pairs with our other capabilities, including Cyber Investigations, Mobile Phone Forensics, Cryptocurrency Investigations, and Digital Evidence Preservation. We can combine these into a single coordinated effort when a matter spans multiple platforms.
Coverage Nationwide and Internationally
Redbeard maintains corporate offices Orlando and Naples and, as a Florida-licensed agency, serves clients nationwide and internationally. For many matters we can arrange secure evidence handling regardless of where the device is located.
Ready to move forward? Speak with a licensed digital forensics investigator today. Call Redbeard Intelligence & Investigations at (888) 564-8300 or email contact@redbeardpi.com for a confidential consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can deleted files and text messages really be recovered?
Often, yes — deleted data can linger until it is overwritten. Recovery depends on the device, storage type, and how much time has passed, so we assess each case honestly rather than promising results.
Is digital forensic evidence admissible in court?
Evidence handled with proper imaging, hashing, and chain of custody is far more likely to be admissible. Admissibility is ultimately decided by the court, so we focus on defensible, well-documented methods.
What is chain of custody in digital forensics?
It is the documented record of who handled each item of evidence, when, and how — from collection through analysis — so its integrity can be demonstrated later.
How long does a digital forensic examination take?
Timelines vary with device count, data volume, and complexity. Some matters resolve in days; larger ones take longer. We give a realistic estimate after reviewing your case.
Do I need to hand over the physical device?
Usually the original device gives the best results, but options exist. We will discuss the safest way to preserve evidence for your specific situation.
Why Hire a Licensed Investigator for Digital Forensics?
Evidence that will not hold up starts with a broken chain of custody. Redbeard’s Florida-licensed examiners image, hash, and document every device and account they touch, delivering findings your attorney can rely on — for clients nationwide and internationally.
What is the cost? | how does it work?
At Redbeard Intelligence & Investigations, we offer upfront, transparent pricing that reflects the specific details and complexity of each case. Instead of vague estimates or hidden charges, we provide clear, upfront pricing tailored to your investigation’s unique requirements—without unexpected fees, hidden costs, or additional unexpected expenses. Our goal is to offer efficient, high-quality investigative and intelligence solutions with transparency and peace of mind.
To begin an investigation, intelligence operation, or technical security assessment, the first step is a confidential consultation via phone or email with one of our experienced professionals. During this initial discussion, we will gather key details about your situation to determine the most effective strategy tailored to your needs. Whether you require private investigative services, intelligence gathering, or technical security solutions, our team will develop a customized plan designed to achieve your objectives. Based on the specific requirements of your case, we will then provide a transparent price quote and/or invoice for the cost of the services needed. Throughout the process, we ensure clear and consistent communication, keeping you informed of any significant developments. Upon completion, you will receive a comprehensive written report detailing our findings, along with any supporting evidence such as photos, video documentation, or technical security assessments.
Helpful Guides
Contact us through phone or email for an initial discussion and provide key details about your needs.
Based on the specific requirements of your case, you'll will receive a flat-rate price quote and invoice for the cost of the services needed.
With pricing and mutual terms accepted, payment will be collected for the predetermined costs, and you'll officially become our client.
Throughout the process, we keep you informed of any significant developments. Upon completion, you will receive a written report detailing our findings, along with any supporting evidence or documentation.
