Computer Crimes Unit

The Computer Crime Unit is an investigative support service organized under Field Command - Bureau of Criminal Investigation. The Unit was founded in 1992 and is currently located at the NYSP Forensic Investigation center.

The Computer Crime Unit is responsible for three operational areas:

Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC)

The Computer Crime Unit is committed to operating the federally funded ICAC Task Force, which helps state and local law enforcement agencies conduct investigations that involve predators who victimize children using the Internet.

Established in September 1998, the program encourages communities to adopt a multi-disciplinary, multi-jurisdictional response to the emerging threat of online child sexual exploitation through a variety of activities:

• Undercover online investigations
• Nationwide investigation coordination
• Search warrant preparation and execution
• Investigative analytical support
• Training for police officers and prosecutors
• Public awareness campaigns
• Outreach activities to schools, parents, and community groups

Computer Forensic Laboratory

Seizing and analyzing Digital Evidence is the primary function of the members assigned to the Computer Forensic Laboratory, and they are established leaders in the development of forensic practices and operating procedures.

The members of the Unit are currently involved in improving the tools for the evaluation and collection of Digital Evidence in the field, and are continually streamlining and improving the examination of Digital Evidence in the Laboratory.

In 2003, the Computer Forensic Laboratory completed analysis on 58 cases and a staggering 1.5 million megabytes of data - the equivalent of analyzing the data on 75 tractor-trailers full of printed documents or 1 million floppy disks.

• Examination of computers and related media
• Analysis of digital evidence for case relevancy
• Preparation of case materials for court presentation
• Grand Jury and Trial Court testimony
• Research on best practices for seizing computer evidence
• Development of Laboratory procedures
• Search warrant and Incident response
• Training and presentation

Cyber Terrorism Unit

The CTU members provide daily support for NYSP personnel and members of other agencies that are conducting investigations that involve the use of computers and technology. In addition to this casework, the CTU members are developing a liaison role with technology companies, government agencies, academic institutions, and owners of critical infrastructure across the state and the nation to provide a coordinated response to information systems emergencies.

• Liaison to NYS Office of Cyber Security and Critical Infrastructure Coordination
• Investigations involving computers and technology
  • Cyber stalking
  • Computer Intrusions
  • Online Fraud
  • Online Terrorist Threats
• Responders to information systems emergencies
• Arrests and search warrant execution
• Online investigations and evidence gathering
• Local and federal law enforcement liaison
• Outreach to community and industry
• Training and development