This course introduces the techniques and challenges encountered in the forensic examination of mobile devices. You will learn about various technologies associated with mobile devices, procedures for preserving, collecting and analysing data, as well as related legal and procedural concerns. The course concentrates on the Android and iOS operating systems but includes an overview of other mobile and embedded devices, including non-smart phones and IoT technologies.

At a glance

  • Dates
    • 23 - 27 Mar 2026
  • Duration5 days
  • LocationCranfield campus
  • CostShort course £2,250, accredited short course £2,500

Course structure

This course is delivered by tutorials, framed discussion periods and group presentations.

What you will learn

On successful completion of the course you will be able to:

  • Construct a clear explanation of the technologies involved the result in the creation of mobile device evidence,
  • Select and perform appropriate techniques for the preservation and acquisition of mobile device evidence,
  • Select and perform appropriate techniques for the examination and interpretation of mobile device evidence.

Core content

  • Legislation and Procedures,
  • Evidence Seizure and Preservation,
  • Network History and Technologies,
  • SIM Cards - Theory and Analysis,
  • Mobile Technologies and Artefacts,
  • iOS and Android - Smart Devices,
  • 'Dumb' Phones,
  • Call Data Records and Cell Site Analysis,
  • Backups and Cloud-based Evidence,
  • Advanced Extraction Techniques,
  • Other Mobile Devices & Trends.

Credits towards further study

Important notice

Please note we will not be taking registrations for the below courses (MSc, PgDip and PgCert) from the 2026-2027 academic year onwards:

Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology
Forensic Investigation
Digital Forensics
Counterterrorism, Security and Resilience

This means that we are no longer in a position to transfer credit associated with modules from these courses to Cranfield degree awards. We continue, however, to be able to support credit transfer to other university awards, subject to acceptance by the receiving institution.

This short course forms part of Digital Forensics and when successfully completed as an accredited short course you will gain 10 Cranfield learning credits.

Find out more about accredited short courses.

Speakers

Richard Walker

How to apply

To apply for this course please use the online application form.

Read our Professional development (CPD) booking conditions.