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Send your questions to CSFA@cybersecurityinstitute.biz

Q: There are other computer forensics certifications available. What makes the CSFA unique?

  • The forensic analysis and subsequent report have to be completed within a reasonable time frame (3 days). In the real world, forensic analysts typically have a specific time frame to complete an analysis. Any competent forensic examiner will be able to complete the test well within the allotted time.
  • All portions of the test are proctored - candidates have to show that they possess the required skills and can complete the technical analysis and analysis report on their own.
  • The tests are related to actual forensic cases, with the candidate having to process the case from start to finish. The hands-on portion includes initial documentation from a law enforcement agency or law firm outlining what is being requested.
  • Additional information can be requested during the test that is related to the test scenario, such as proxy logs, firewall logs, IDS logs, time sheets, etc. This reflects real-word scenarios where additional information is requested and motions are submitted for production of evidence. Depending on the particular scenario, candidates may have to assist with verbiage for an affidavit, motion, and/or subpoena.
  • Candidates can use whatever software and hardware tools they normally use to conduct forensic analysis.

Q: What types of ID do I need to bring the day of the test?
You will need to provide two pieces of ID, one being a picture ID. This information is also in the CSFA Certification Test Application and Agreement.

Acceptable forms of ID: U.S. Passport; Driver's license or ID card issued by a state, provided It contains a photograph; ID card issued by federal, state, or local Government agencies or entities provided it contains a photograph; School ID card with photograph; Voters registration card; U.S. Military card or draft record; Military dependent's ID card; U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Card; Native American tribal document; U.S. social security card; Original or certified copy of a birth certificate issued by a state, county, municipal authority or outlying possession of the United States bearing an official seal; School record or report card; Certification of Birth Abroad issued by the Department of State.

Q: Will I be able to talk to other test candidates during the test?
While in the testing room no, unless with a test proctor. Test candidates are encouraged to talk to one another during breaks, lunch, and before/after the daily testing sessions. In the real world, a forensic analyst draws upon the expertise and knowledge of other professionals. Another test candidate is not allowed to sit at or access your forensic workstation.

Q: Doesn't allowing Internet access encourage cheating?
We do not believe so. A forensic examiner uses the Internet as a resource when conducting forensic analysis. Internet access will be available from specified computers only and will be monitored. Uploading or otherwise sending information relevant to the test scenario will be grounds for termination of the candidate's test and expulsion from the testing center.

Q: Why just three days to complete the analysis?
In the real world, a forensic examiner does not have an unlimited amount of time to complete an analysis. Any competent forensic examiner will be able to complete the test well within the allotted time.

Q: Do I have to stay for the entire three days?
No. Turning in your analysis report will be the end of your test.

Q: Will all testing candidates be working on the same scenario?
No. There are multiple scenarios, some with a FAT based file system and some with NTFS.

Q: What if my background check comes back with derogatory information that is not mine?
Since the background check is based on your fingerprints, this is not likely. If there is a dispute however, it is up to you to have the matter cleared up. CSI will not get involved in such a dispute.

Q: How widely accepted is the CSFA certification??
The CSFA certification is new. The CSFA will take some time to become recognized as the most thorough, comprehensive and accurate test of a forensic analyst's capabilities and knowledge. There is not a more thorough test currently available.

Q: What if my FBI background request comes back indicating that my prints are unreadable or indiscernible?
If a criminal background report comes back from the FBI indicating that the prints are not readable, you should have a second set of prints done at the nearest State Police Post and resubmitted to the FBI for processing.

Q: I have a copy of an FBI background check that was done at the request of my employer. Can I use this?
We cannot accept a copy of a report that has been done for any other entity or organization. CSFA test candidates must make the request and then voluntarily submit the information to us.

Q: Can I submit a photocopy of my FBI report?
The original report(s) and fingerprint cards must be attached to your CSFA test candidate form. Photocopies of the fingerprint card and/or the written report from the FBI are not acceptable.

Q: When I went to get my fingerprints done, I was told that the requesting organization needs to provide the fingerprint cards. How do I obtain these from CyberSecurity Institute?
CyberSecurity Institute is not the requesting organization. You are requesting the background check be completed for personal review, and will then voluntarily turn it over to us. CyberSecurity Institute has no authorization to request that the check be performed on you. Please review the FBI Background Check page for specific instructions and additional information.

Q: How do I fill out the fingerprint card?
Please see the following URL: FD-258 FBI Fingerprint Card and FBI Identification Record Information

Q: Do I have to stay each day until 7:00 PM? This is too long of a day for me.
You do not have to stay each day until 7:00 PM. Understand however that once you leave for the day you cannot return to the testing center again that same day.

Q: Are cell phones and pagers allowed during the test?
No.

Q: Can I bring removable media, thumb drives, etc., into the testing center?
Only for the purpose of providing your own forensic tools. Installation of additional tools will be monitored.

Q: What if I have an emergency and I need to leave the testing center?
As long as you can provide documentation of the emergency, you will be allowed to reschedule your test. Understand that these situations will be taken into consideration on a case-by-case basis, and that the final decision is up to CyberSecurity Institute.

Q: What if a situation arises that is not covered in the testing rules?
Personnel will be present to deal with these situations. CyberSecurity Institute will make the final decision as to how the situations will be dealt with.

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