Smartphones are often critical in modern workplace investigations. Whether it’s a question of intellectual property theft, harassment, misuse of company systems, or breach of policy, a smartphone can hold critical evidence.
From call logs and texts to app activity and location history, these devices often provide the missing pieces that connect timelines and confirm actions.
But how and how well this evidence can be recovered depends heavily on ownership and control of the device.
What Can Be Recovered
A well‑executed smartphone forensic examination can potentially recover:
- Messages – SMS, MMS, encrypted app chats, and deleted messages (where recoverable).
- Call Logs – Incoming, outgoing, and missed calls with timestamps.
- Photos & Videos – Including deleted media in some cases.
- App Data – Social media posts, ride‑share histories, cloud file sync logs, etc.
- Location History – GPS and cell tower data that can help verify timelines.
- Browser History – Including cached searches and visited sites.
Preserving Mobile Evidence
Preservation is key.
If a device is powered on and in use, data can change or be overwritten in moments. The best practice is to:
- Secure the Device Quickly – Limit further use.
- Isolate from Networks – Airplane mode or a Faraday bag to prevent remote wiping.
- Document the Chain of Custody – Record every transfer and handling step.
- Use Proper Tools & Experts – Avoid ad‑hoc “phone copy” solutions that risk altering evidence.
The BYOD Factor
This is where workplace policy becomes critical.
- Company‑Issued Devices – The organization can take possession immediately, preserve data promptly, and perform a thorough forensic acquisition.
- Personal Devices (BYOD) – Access depends on cooperation, privacy laws, and company policy. You may need consent, a legal order, or to rely on indirect evidence from cloud backups, company email servers, or messaging platforms.
BYOD doesn’t mean evidence can’t be recovered but it often slows the process, increases the risk of missing data, and complicates admissibility.
How Mobile Forensics Supports Timelines
In many workplace disputes, the “when” matters as much as the “what.” Mobile forensics can confirm:
- If an employee accessed sensitive files before resigning.
- Whether communications occurred during work hours or off the clock.
- Where a device was located during key events.
- If a policy violation was ongoing or a one‑time occurrence.
Example
If a company suspects an employee leaked client data:
- With a Company‑Issued Device – Forensics can confirm whether the data was accessed, emailed, or sent via messaging apps and when.
- With a BYOD Device – The investigation may be limited to activity involving company systems or cloud accounts, and some app data may remain inaccessible.
Smartphone forensics can be a decisive factor in workplace investigations but the outcome is shaped by ownership, access, and preservation.
By having clear mobile device policies and acting quickly when issues arise, businesses improve their ability to recover and use digital evidence effectively.
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.