Curriculum Information

This module provides students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills relating to how technology is used in the Criminal Justice Sector and how technology can be used to facilitate crime.

The module content will focus on the following areas:

Understanding the Prevalence of Technology and Devices in Modern Society and Their Effect on Policing:

·       First point of contact, social media, etc.

·       Digital witnesses (Echo, Google home, etc.), CCTV, digital devices, etc.

·       Investigative opportunities (CPIA 1996, investigative mind-set)

·       Community engagement

Changing World of Devices and Device Capabilities:

·       Wearables (e.g., Fitbits, Apple watches, etc.)

·       GPS, satnav, drones

·       Vehicle data (telematics, infotainment, etc.)

·       Internet of things (connected home)

·       Games consoles (e-readers, other mobile devices)

·       Routers, Wi-Fi, VPN, and communications data

·       Data storage, including Cloud, removable drives, memory sticks, and volatile data

Common IT Terminology Associated with Devices:

·       Internet addresses (e.g., IP addresses, MAC addresses, mobile internet, etc.)

·       Email

·       Social networking (e.g., social media, instant messaging)

·       Mobile apps

·       Source code

·       Cryptocurrency

·       Dark web, deep web

Understanding the Personal and Organisational Risks Associated with Using Personal Devices and Being a Member of Police:

·       Managing Security Risks to Self and Family.

·       Separating private life from work life and work identity

·       Risk of being traced through technology, location service data, etc.

·       Social media association

Understanding 'Digital Hygiene':

·       Impacts of using personal devices for police business

·       Seizure of personal devices for evidence and subsequent disclosure at court

·       Risks of disclosure of personal data in court

·       Risks of leaking information about live police operations

·       Tracking and scanning devices

Key Legislation Applicable to Ensure Compliance and Mitigate Organisational Risk:

·       Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984

·       Computer Misuse Act 1990

·       Criminal Procedure and Investigations Act 1996

·       Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000

·       Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001

·       Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006

·       ACPO Good Practice Guide for Digital Evidence 2012

·       Investigatory Powers Act 2016

·       Data Protection Act 2018

·       General Data Protection Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (GDPR)

Describing the Ways in Which Technology May Be Used in Everyday Policing:

·       Community engagement

·       Data retention in apps on devices

·       Gathering information

·       Managing incidents

·       Enhancing criminal investigations

·       Enhancing communications

·       ANPR

·       CCTV Cameras

·       Body-Worn Video

·       Drones

·       Facial Recognition

Considerations in the Use of Technology Within Policing:

·       Legal restrictions on investigatory use of technology

·       Digital footprint, personal and work devices

·       Professional standards

·       Disclosure considerations

Specialist Support Available for Investigations Involving Digital Devices:

·       In-force experts/Single Points of Contact (SPOCs)

·       Internet, intelligence, and investigations specialists

·       Digital Media Investigators

·       Cyber Crime Units

·       Crime Prevention Units

·       Authorised Professional Practice

Describing Complex Types of Digital-Dependent Crimes and Their Impact:
 

·       Hacking

·       Malware

·       Phishing

·       Denial of service

·       Browser hijacking

·       Ransomware

·       Data manipulation

·       Cryptocurrency offences

·       Fraud

·       Phishing

·       Terrorism and Extremism.

Other elements of content will include:

·       Impact of Complex Digital-Related Crimes on Individuals and Businesses

·       Developing knowledge of understanding of the Digital technology framework.

·       Understanding the prevalence of technology in modern society and how technology is used in everyday Crime and Justice.

·       Examining how digital technology can capture best evidence.