The Underworld of Social Media 2027

Social media and open-source evidence are now integral to nearly every type of criminal investigation -- the evidence uncovered from social media platforms and technology providers can be the difference between a difficult-to-prosecute case and a slam dunk with the jury. Whether working homicides, sexual assaults, narcotics trafficking, financial crimes, human trafficking, or gang-related offenses, professionals across the criminal justice system are increasingly encountering digital evidence that originates from social media platforms. Understanding how to effectively locate suspect social media accounts, effectively write legal process for them, and obtain/use the evidence uncovered is essential for 21st-century investigators, analysts, or prosecutors. This three-day symposium, sponsored by the Oregon Narcotics Enforcement Association, brings together three of the nation's leading instructors on open source and social media investigations for an immersive and highly focused training event designed to equip attendees with the knowledge, tools, and strategies required to effectively investigate social media platforms and open sources of information. This event is specifically designed for law enforcement personnel, criminal intelligence analysts, and prosecutors, regardless of agency size or area of specialization.