Computer Forensics

The Computer Forensics Unit investigates high-tech incidents such as the distribution of child pornography (sometimes related to sexting), hacking and some network intrusions (viruses, but not fraud).

Investigators in this unit support many areas of the Ottawa Police by:

• Analyzing forensic data on computers and cell phones;
• Providing expert technical assistance;
• Executing search warrants;
• Assisting in the investigation of cyberbullying, online threats of violence or suicide;
• Tracing emails;
• Identifying IP addresses;
• Recovering stolen property; and
• Providing education to the public and high-tech sectors.

The widespread and sometimes anonymous nature of the Internet creates complex jurisdictional issues. Generally, the police service where the offence occurred (whether in another city or even another country) has the responsibility to investigate.