What is the Online Investigator's Handbook?

The Online Investigator's Handbook is a training tutorial and reference guide for investigators.  It presents a new methodology for conducting research on the Internet when used as part of a fraud investigation.  It began as a graduate research project.  For more information, see the About page.

What do you mean by "online" investigations?

"Online" investigation tactics can be used for all types of crimes or research - not just computer fraud.  The handbook started as a tool for the investigation of fraudulent disability insurance claims but the procedures apply to all types of investigations.  Basically, "online investigations" means using a computer to find out information on a subject.

Is this the same thing as computer forensics?

No.  Computer forensics generally involves the analysis of data on a specific computers.  For example, computer forensics technicians might examine a hard disk drive on a computer seized during a search of a suspect's home in order to identify evidence of a crime.  Although it is a powerful investigative tool, the Online Investigator's Handbook does not cover this topic.

How do I report a broken link?

The dynamic nature of the Internet is one of its greatest assets but it also causes problems for websites with multiple links to other pages.  If you come across a broken link in the handbook, please report it by visiting the Contact page.

I think I can use online information in my investigation but I need more help.  Who should I call?

First, read the handbook again.  Chances are, the answer to your question is in there.  If you need more assistance, Contact the Online Investigator's Handbook administrator with a specific question.  Please note that due to the volume of requests, the administrator may not be able to respond to all requests but every attempt will be made to provide assistance when possible.

Don't the paid public record services give you the same information, all in one place for a small fee?

Some of the information discussed in the handbook is available from public record aggregators.  In fact, sometimes the author recommends using these types of paid services for particular types of information because of their high level of accuracy.  However, much of the information discussed in the handbook is not available from such paid services.  The handbook focuses heavily on how to use the free resources available to conduct investigations.

I know of a resource that was not mentioned in the handbook.  Do you take recommendations?

Absolutely.  The Internet is in a constant state of change and new resources pop up all the time.  If you have a website or method that you would like to recommend, please visit the Contact page.  Remember to include your name and email address!

Where can I find more information?

Hopefully, the Handbook has increased your interest in this topic.  Check out the References section for additional sources of information.  Also, you may wish to review the Tools & Resources page for more ideas.