Data Discourse

Digital Evidence Update: What's New In Computer Forensics

Data Discourse returns with hosts Pete Mansmann and Jeff Stiegler delivering a timely update on digital forensics and e-discovery trends shaping today’s legal and investigative landscape. In this episode, they unpack how evolving security features, encryption standards, and AI-generated content are redefining digital evidence collection, analysis, and authentication strategies. This in-depth discussion explores how modern devices (especially smartphones) have become privacy-first ecosystems, complicating traditional forensic data extraction methods. From biometric locks and secure folders to device states like BFU (Before First Unlock) and AFU (After First Unlock), Pete and Jeff explain why digital forensics now requires negotiation with technology rather than simple access. They also examine the growing challenges surrounding deleted data recovery, encrypted storage, and cloud-based evidence within platforms such as Microsoft OneDrive, Microsoft Teams, and Google Workspace. As email “attachments” increasingly become cloud-hosted links rather than embedded files, legal teams must expand discovery strategies to include communications, cloud repositories, and app-based data sources. Pete and Jeff also covers the impact of artificial intelligence on digital evidence authenticity, emphasizing the growing difficulty of verifying AI-generated images, videos, and documents. They underscore the importance of early expert consultation, realistic expectations about recoverability, and human-led verification processes in an era where digital evidence is more complex AND more critical than ever. Six Key Takeaways from This Episode * Digital forensics and e-discovery methods must continuously adapt to evolving device security and encryption technologies. * Mobile devices now prioritize privacy, making full data extraction more difficult - even with legal authorization. * Deleted data recovery on modern SSDs and smartphones is increasingly unreliable due to encryption and TRIM technology. * Cloud storage and collaboration platforms require expanded discovery strategies beyond traditional email collection. * AI-generated content raises significant authenticity and verification challenges in legal proceedings. * Early collaboration with digital forensics experts is essential for managing risk, cost, and evidentiary expectations. Precise is your trusted resource for all things mobile forensics and e-discovery. Precise is your trusted resource for all things mobile forensics and e-discovery. We look forward to partnering with your firm and helping you win your next case! Visit our website to learn more and set up a free consultation: Click here to get started [https://precise-ediscovery.com/] Or call us at 866-721-5378

AI & The Law: A Ground-Level Look At What's Changing and What Isn't with Joe Schwerha

It’s time for another episode of Data Discourse! Today’s conversation brings host Pete Mansmann and Jeff Stiegler of Precise, Inc. together with guest Joe Schwerha for an eye-opening conversation about artificial intelligence’s growing footprint in the legal world. They break down how AI is reshaping legal education, digital forensics, and the evidentiary process, while also creating new challenges for legal professionals to utilize AI tools in their everyday practices. Throughout this episode, you’ll receive a candid, ground-level view of AI in action, from what’s already changed, what’s still the same, and where the risks lay. The discussion offers practical strategies and cautionary insights for attorneys, investigators, and anyone working at the intersection of technology and law. The episode provides an in-depth review of AI’s role in legal research, how law schools are rethinking assignments, and why treating AI like a “junior associate” is a smart mindset. Real-world scenarios illustrate how AI can enhance productivity, but also introduce inaccuracies, bias, and potential for misuse if left unchecked. From deepfake dangers to AI-powered cybercrime, what you’re about to consume underscores the urgency of questioning the authenticity of digital evidence and maintaining strong data security. Pete, Jeff, and Joe emphasize the importance of staying informed, testing tools, and creating clear policies for responsible AI use in legal practice. Key Takeaways: * AI is actively influencing legal education, practice, and digital forensics. * Treat AI outputs as starting points and always verify accuracy and relevance. * Deepfakes and AI-generated content raise serious evidentiary concerns. * Cybercriminals are leveraging AI to enhance phishing, identity theft, and fraud. * Ongoing education and experimentation are essential to using AI effectively. * Clear internal guidelines help ensure AI is used responsibly in legal contexts. Precise is your trusted resource for all things mobile forensics and e-discovery. Precise is your trusted resource for all things mobile forensics and e-discovery. We look forward to partnering with your firm and helping you win your next case! Visit our website to learn more and set up a free consultation: Click here to get started [https://precise-ediscovery.com/] Or call us at 866-721-5378

Unmasking Human Trafficking: Traditional and Digital Investigations

This episode contains discussions about human trafficking and child exploitation that may be distressing to some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. In this powerful episode of Data Discourse, host Pete Mansmann is joined by Jeff Stiegler of Precise Discovery, LLC., and Ashley Miller of CSI Investigators for a deep conversation into the hidden world of human trafficking and the tools used to fight it. Throughout this episode, the trio unpacks how this complex crime thrives in both physical and digital environments and why increased vigilance from parents and communities is critical. The conversation highlights the vital role guardians play in early prevention by educating themselves and maintaining open communication with children. Social media and gaming platforms are often used by traffickers as entry points for grooming unsuspecting minors. You’ll hear a thorough breakdown of common grooming behaviors and how they evolve from subtle online interactions to real-world danger. Understanding these signs, including but not limited to sudden secrecy or withdrawal, can lead to earlier intervention and possibly save lives. Pete, Jeff, and Ashley also explore how digital forensics is revolutionizing the fight against trafficking. Technology is becoming a crucial ally in bringing traffickers to justice thanks to savvy experts analyzing data trails and identifying patterns of exploitation. Key Takeaways: * Human trafficking often goes undetected, making education and awareness vital. * Parents and caregivers must stay engaged with their children’s digital lives. * Online platforms like social media and games are common grooming grounds for traffickers * Behavioral red flags, such as secrecy and isolation, can signal grooming activity. * Digital forensics plays a critical role in tracking and prosecuting traffickers. * Open, honest communication between guardians and children is a powerful preventive tool. Learn more at csiinvestigators.com [https://csiinvestigators.com] Email Ashley Miller: amiller@csiinvestigators.com [amiller@csiinvestigators.com] Precise is your trusted resource for all things mobile forensics and e-discovery. Precise is your trusted resource for all things mobile forensics and e-discovery. We look forward to partnering with your firm and helping you win your next case! Visit our website to learn more and set up a free consultation: Click here to get started [https://precise-ediscovery.com/] Or call us at 866-721-5378

Bridging the Gap Between IT & eDiscovery Providers w/ Matt Campbell & Bill Saccani

It’s Episode 2 of Season 2 of Data Discourse and today,  we explore the evolving relationship between IT departments and eDiscovery providers - focusing strongly on how collaboration can lead to more efficient and cost-effective outcomes. Click play to join host Pete Mansmann, Matt Campbell of Steel River Techs, and Bill Saccani, President of Precise Discovery LLC, to unpack this crucial intersection in the digital era. Our discussion focuses on the growing trend of outsourced IT support, particularly among small and medium-sized businesses. Matt and Bill shed light on how this shift brings scalability and specialized knowledge without the burden of maintaining a full-time internal team. We also emphasize the vital need for clear communication between IT and legal teams during the eDiscovery process. Bill explains how casting a wide net during data collection helps avoid costly, redundant efforts, while Matt highlights the legal risks of mishandled metadata. In addition, we dive into common pain points - such as time-sensitive requests and the complexities of historical data. The episode underscores the value of IT teams providing contextual insights to expedite and simplify eDiscovery efforts. Key Takeaways: * Outsourcing IT support offers flexibility and expertise that can greatly benefit eDiscovery initiatives. * Early and open communication between IT and eDiscovery providers helps prevent missteps and rework. * Broad initial data collection can minimize delays and legal complications later in the process. * Preserving metadata integrity is essential for compliance and defensibility in legal contexts. * IT professionals play a critical role in providing historical system context that aids eDiscovery efficiency. * Stronger collaboration between IT and eDiscovery teams leads to smarter, faster, and more cost-effective outcomes. Connect with Matt Campbell PHONE: 412-832-0613 EMAIL: sales@steelrivertechs.com [sales@steelrivertechs.com] WEBSITE: steelrivertechs.com [https://steelrivertechs.com] Precise is your trusted resource for all things mobile forensics and e-discovery. Precise is your trusted resource for all things mobile forensics and e-discovery. We look forward to partnering with your firm and helping you win your next case! Visit our website to learn more and set up a free consultation: Click here to get started [https://precise-ediscovery.com/] Or call us at 866-721-5378

Unlocking Open Source Intelligence, Social Media Discovery, & Digital Forensics w/ Josh Janow

It’s the Season 2 Premiere of Data Discourse and we are kicking off this season with an in-depth conversation about open source intelligence and how it’s reshaping the landscape of legal investigations. With digital footprints now a staple of daily life, attorneys are tapping into public data sources to bolster cases across personal injury, class action lawsuits, and more. To break down this hot topic, we welcome Josh Janow, CEO of SMI Aware, to the show to join our host, Peter Mansmann. Throughout this conversation, we unpack the dual role open source intelligence plays—streamlining early case assessments and serving as pivotal evidence during litigation. From unfiltered social media activity to fitness app data, this kind of information often proves more revealing than traditional sources and could make or break the outcome of your case. Technological advancements have revolutionized how legal teams gather and analyze this information. Cutting-edge tools and AI-driven platforms now allow professionals to mine relevant data faster and more accurately than ever before. We also discuss the ethical dimensions of digital investigations, highlighting how legal teams can stay compliant while leveraging third-party experts to ensure responsible, policy-abiding open source intelligence practices. Key Takeaways: * Open source intelligence enables legal professionals to uncover valuable data from publicly available sources like social media and online forums. * Digital evidence is often less filtered than traditional forms, making it highly valuable in assessing credibility or corroborating claims. * Advanced AI tools streamline the collection of digital data, significantly reducing time and increasing precision. * Fitness trackers, social posts, money apps, even comment histories can offer insights critical to legal outcomes. * Legal teams must remain compliant with ethical standards, particularly regarding personal privacy and social media contact. * Partnering with trained open source intelligence professionals ensures investigations are both thorough and ethically sound. Connect with Josh Janow: Website [https://smiaware.com] | LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuajanow/] Precise is your trusted resource for all things mobile forensics and e-discovery. Precise is your trusted resource for all things mobile forensics and e-discovery. We look forward to partnering with your firm and helping you win your next case! Visit our website to learn more and set up a free consultation: Click here to get started [https://precise-ediscovery.com/] Or call us at 866-721-5378