WB3C Launches a 1-Year Specialist Training in Digital Forensics  

The Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Centre (WB3C), in cooperation with the University of Technology of Troyes (UTT), is launching a one-year specialist training program for law enforcement professionals seeking to specialize in cybercrime investigations and digital forensics. Based on the existing N’Tech Investigator Training curriculum used by the French Gendarmerie, this unique programme equips participants with the advanced skills needed to tackle cyber-enabled crimes and digital threats.

Faced with rapidly evolving cyber threats, law enforcement must continually enhance their scientific, technological, legal and language expertise to effectively investigate crimes such as child exploitation, payment fraud and network intrusions. Therefore, this programme is a strategic investment in cyber capacity building, strengthening the ability of law enforcement in the Western Balkans to investigate and prosecute cybercrime cases effectively. Digital forensics is an increasingly in-demand field, as law enforcement agencies and the judiciary rely on skilled professionals to identify, analyze and preserve digital evidence in cybercrime cases.

Key Learning Areas:

• Legal frameworks and cybercrime investigations
• Digital forensic analysis and evidence preservation
• OSINT and CyberPatrol techniques
• Programming, networks and data analytics
• Cybercrime psychology and investigative methodologies
• Information security and electronic signals

The course will bring together 15 police force officers from across the region who will engage in 1400 hours of intensive training, combining theory and hands-on exercises in cybercrime investigations, digital forensics and advanced investigative techniques led by experts and instructors from UTT and WB3C. Participants will take the final exam and receive a recognized qualification at the end of the course.

Protecting children from online crimes

As technology continues to advance, the online exploitation of children has become one of the most pressing and deeply concerning challenges confronting law enforcement across the world.  This four-day training for law enforcement professionals and cybersecurity experts from the South East Europe Police Chiefs Association (SEPCA) member countries, focused on cryptocurrency and online child sexual abuse and exploitation. The programme is delivered in partnership with the Council of Europe (COE), OSCE, Austrian Cybercrime Competence Centre (C4) and the Ministry of Interior of Serbia.

 The training is addressing three critical areas:

1.      Cryptocurrency Investigations:  

• The use of cryptocurrencies in criminal activities, particularly in cases involving child exploitation.  
• Blockchain tracing techniques and methodologies for seizing virtual assets through both theory and practical exercises.
• Sessions include best practices for evaluating wallets, understanding derivation paths, and using specialized tools to track illicit transactions.

 2.      Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Online:  

• Comprehensive training on identifying and disrupting child exploitation networks, with a focus on international cooperation.
• Psychological impact on investigators working in this sensitive area, offering support and tools to help them manage the emotional toll of these investigations.
• In-depth discussions on undercover operations, the use of digital platforms used for child sexual exploitation and effective methods for collecting electronic evidence.

3.      Cross-Border Collaboration:

•  Facilitating collaboration among law enforcement agencies from across the region, Europe and key international partners. The goal is to share knowledge and foster greater coordination in tackling these global challenges.
• Presentation of updates on regional and international efforts to combat cybercrime. 

This collaborative training activity marks a significant step forward in our shared mission to protect children from exploitation and hold those who use emerging technologies for illicit purposes accountable. International collaboration is key for strengthening the tools and techniques needed to safeguard vulnerable communities and dismantle criminal networks.

Training for police investigators, prosecutors and judges

In the digital age, cybercrime has emerged as a significant global challenge, particularly pronounced in regions like the Western Balkans, where rapid technological advances outpace the development of corresponding legal and security frameworks. As cyber threats evolve in complexity and scale, law enforcement agencies must adapt swiftly to safeguard national security, economic interests, and public trust. The "Cybercrime for Law Enforcement" course, designed by the Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Centre (WB3C), aims to fortify the region's defenses by enhancing the capabilities of police investigators, prosecutors, and judges in handling cybercrime.

Context and Need for Specialized Training The digital environment presents a fertile ground for various cybercriminal activities, ranging from financial fraud and data breaches to cyberterrorism and espionage. These crimes not only disrupt individual lives but also threaten the stability and security of states. In the Western Balkans, where digital transformation is accelerating, there is a pressing need for comprehensive cybercrime legislation and skilled law enforcement personnel adept at navigating the complexities of the cyber space.

Course Overview This intensive two-week course is split into two phases:

1. Week 1: Theoretical Foundations

• Internet and Digital Environment Basics: (Protocols-Domains Names-IP) Understanding the foundational elements of the internet and digital communications.
• OSINT and Cyber Infiltration: Delving into the technical protocols that govern data transmission and how to utilize open-source intelligence for investigations.
• Surface Web/Deep Web/Dark Web: Exploring the hidden layers of the internet that serve as hubs for illegal activities. CEO frauds, Falses documents, cyberstalking, cyberbullying, hate online and all online trafficking(weapons, drugs, people trafficking).
• Cryptocurrency: Studying the use of digital currencies in cybercrime, focusing on tracking and tracing transactions (blockchain, money laundering)

2. Week 2: Practical Skills and Real-World Application

• Table Top Exercises: Engaging in scenario-based training to simulate cybercrime investigations, emphasizing real-time decision-making and interagency cooperation.
• Collaborative Training: Facilitating joint training sessions for investigators and prosecutors to foster seamless cooperation and understanding of each role in dealing with the offences they face.

Importance of the Training This training is critical in building a resilient cybersecurity posture within the Western Balkans. By equipping law enforcement professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge, the course aims to enhance the effectiveness of the region's response to cyber incidents. The collaborative aspect of the training reflects the real-world necessity for cross-disciplinary coordination among various law enforcement branches, ensuring that cybercrime is addressed swiftly and efficiently.

Ultimately, the "Cybercrime for Law Enforcement" not only raises the standard of professional expertise in handling cyber incidents but also plays a pivotal role in the broader context of national and regional security strategies. It is a key component in the Western Balkans' ongoing efforts to build a robust framework capable of combating the evolving landscape of cyber threats.