SEARCH Trainer Demonstrates Social Networking Site Investigation Techniques to Financial Crimes Investigators

Lauren Wagner

SEARCH High-Tech Crime Training Specialist Ms. Lauren Wagner shared the latest tools and techniques for social network investigations during a recent gathering of financial fraud investigators. Her presentation on September 4, 2009, was part of the International Association of Financial Crimes Investigators (IAFCI) Annual Conference 2009 in Phoenix, Arizona.

Ms. Wagner's presentation included an introduction and overview of social networking sites; how to search sites as part of an investigation; and how to capture data from social networking sites.

She was invited to speak at the conference by Ms. Gina King, Manager of Fraud Operations at Identity Theft 911.

"Lauren's presentation was very beneficial to our investigators. Evidence of criminal activity is often stored on these sites and it is important that investigators learn how to properly investigate them. SEARCH is a pioneer in this field and we were very fortunate to receive this training," said Ms. King.

The IAFCI is an international organization that provides services and an environment within which information about financial fraud, fraud investigation and fraud prevention methods can be collected, exchanged and taught. IAFCI gives professional investigators national and international investigative capabilities to establish effective financial crimes programs.

Ms. Wagner is an expert in the area of social network investigation and has authored three papers on the subject:

She also teaches a one-day, hands-on training class titled Social Networking Sites: Investigative Tools and Techniques.