• Home
• Investigation Types
• Electronic Data Discovery

Electronic Data Discovery

What is eDiscovery?

eDiscovery or electronic discovery, as it is more commonly known, is a type of investigation that is similar to many computer forensic investigations. In eDiscovery investigations, investigators try to discover information about electronic documents and files. Private investigators, for example, may work with email messages, software programs, web pages, word processing files, spreadsheets, meta data, databases, backup tapes, cache memory, hard drives, CD-ROMs, thumb drives, PDAs, firewall/IDS logs, phone call logs, IM transmissions, and other types of computer and electronic data. Depending on the type of investigation, investigators may be trying to recover lost files or information, may be trying to trace changes to electronic files, or may be trying to determine whether any electronic files were involved in computer crimes.

Why is eDiscovery suddenly in the news so often?

Unfortunately, the rate of cyber crime is rising and many companies are losing billions of dollars annually to cyber criminals and to fraud. In many cases, an electronic discovery investigation is the best way to protect a company or to find evidence of wrong-doing that can lead to arrest or prosecution.

What happens during an eDiscovery investigation?

eDiscovery really begins when a business or person realizes that something may be wrong with electronic data. They contact a private investigator and share their worries. The investigator may tell the client to take some steps right away such as gather all related data files or shut off a specific computer. The investigator then arrives on the scene, talks to clients and others involved and looks at the computer system or the electronic files involved. Depending on the exact situation, an investigator may use surveillance, computer investigations, network investigations, internet use investigations, data recovery techniques, special software, and other types of techniques to gather evidence and to resolve the problem.

How do I know I need an electronic discovery investigation?

There may be many signs that there is something wrong with electronic data. If you lose a specific file or system, of course, you know you need an eDiscovery specialist to help you recover files that have been lost or deleted. The signs may be more subtle, though You may notice unauthorized changes in some electronic files or data. You may notice that some employees seem to be acting suspiciously. You may notice that your computer systems seem slower or seem to be affected by hacking or a virus. If you run a company, you may notice that your company is mysteriously losing money without any paper trail to account for it. In all of these situations, a qualified electronic discovery professional can help you.

Looking for an eDiscovery Investigator?

When selecting a private investigator for your investigation, you want someone who is experienced, qualified, and able to work with the latest eDiscovery techniques. It is also important to find someone in your local area who can help you right away. Looking through your phone book is not likely to give you the answers you need because not all investigators listed in the yellow pages list their qualificaons and expertise carefully. Plus, phone books are usually at least a few months out of date. If you want current, accurate information that can help you find a local eDiscovery expert, turn to PInow.com. The PInow.com directory is a complete resource and a place where you can easily find a local, professional private investigator who can help you get back on track.

Use the search utility on the top of this page or select from a state on the left to find an eDiscovery Investigator. Still can't find what your are looking for? Call us at (888) 997-4669.