When suspicions of employee data theft arise, companies often think first about “catching someone in the act.” But the real value of a forensic investigation is bigger: it’s about uncovering patterns, understanding intent, and gathering clear evidence to guide next steps, whether that means legal action, internal discipline, or shoring up weak security controls.
Digital forensics does this by digging into computers, phones, and accounts to assemble a detailed intelligence picture. Logs, system artifacts, and user behavior all come together to help answer critical questions.
Why the Last Few Weeks Matter
In most investigations, all dates matter, but forensic investigators pay close attention to activity from roughly the last few weeks. This window tends to capture:
- Recent downloads or unusual file movements
- Access to confidential folders not typically touched
- Communications that may show planning or coordination
- New apps or tools installed to exfiltrate data
- Deleted files or attempts to cover tracks
While “the last 48 hours” is sometimes cited in urgent incident response, it’s often too narrow. Employee data theft can involve days or even weeks of preparation, and looking back at least 10-14 days usually provides better context, especially when comparing to normal workflows.
What Forensic Investigators Looks At
When investigating suspected employee data theft, experienced digital forensics teams typically examine:
Computer Artifacts
- File system metadata: Dates files were created, modified, or accessed
- Recent documents lists: Files opened or edited by the user
- USB history: Evidence of external drives being connected
- Browser history and downloads: Sites visited, files retrieved, webmail usage
- Application logs: Such as zip archives created to compress data
Mobile Device Clues
- Messaging apps: Chats and attachments on platforms like WhatsApp or iMessage
- Cloud storage usage: Uploads to Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive
- Email activity: Especially from native mail apps vs. browser use
- Deleted app traces: Many mobile systems still keep small artifacts even after uninstall
System & Network Logs
- VPN or remote access sessions: Was someone pulling data offsite?
- File server logs: Shared folders accessed out of normal hours or by unexpected users
- Security software alerts: Data loss prevention (DLP) or endpoint detection flags
Building More Than a Case: Building Insight
It’s tempting to see digital forensics only as a way to catch wrongdoing and support legal claims. But the same evidence also delivers operational intelligence that can improve security, like:
- Identifying gaps in data access controls
- Spotting risky workflows (such as emailing sensitive files to personal accounts)
- Highlighting employees who may be targets of external social engineering
Often, investigations reveal poor practices that can be corrected with policy updates or better training, reducing the chances of repeat problems.
A Few Practical Tips
If you suspect data theft:
- Preserve systems quickly: Don’t let devices be wiped or reissued before imaging.
- Avoid jumping to conclusions: Let the evidence shape the narrative: intent vs. mistake, matters.
- Coordinate with counsel and HR early: Even potential cases need clear documentation.
- Engage specialists: Professional forensic examiners have tools to recover deleted data and analyze logs thoroughly.
- Plan beyond the individual: Use findings to strengthen overall processes and monitoring.
Computer and phone forensics shine a light on more than just “who did it.” By pulling together logs, artifacts, and behavioral patterns over the past couple of weeks, businesses gain the intelligence they need to act wisely, whether that means defending intellectual property, improving internal security, or simply clearing up misunderstandings.
About Swailes Computer Forensics
Swailes Computer Forensics provides expert digital forensic services to law firms, corporations, and organizations nationwide. Our work includes investigations into intellectual property theft, employee misconduct, data breaches, and more. With decades of experience and a commitment to integrity and clarity, we help clients uncover critical evidence and take informed action.
If you’re facing a potential case of employee data theft or have concerns about unauthorized activity, contact us for a confidential consultation.