Short answer: Triage Forensics preserves, extracts and analyses data from mobile phones, then reports the findings in plain language that can be relied on in a workplace matter, tribunal or court. Every engagement follows the same five stages, and at each one you know what we need from you and what you’ll get back.

The kinds of data we examine are covered in our complete guide to mobile phone forensics. Here is how an engagement runs in practice.

Stage	What we need from you	What you get
1. Scope	The questions you need answered, the device details and your deadline.	A written scope, a timeframe and a quote.
2. Preservation	The device, its passcode if known, and who has handled it.	Chain-of-custody documentation from the moment we receive it.
3. Extraction	Nothing further in most cases.	A verified forensic copy; the original is not altered.
4. Analysis	Availability to answer questions as they arise.	Early notice of significant findings or recovery limits.
5. Reporting	Confirmation of the report’s format and audience.	A plain-language report, and expert evidence if needed.

Stage 1: Scope

We agree exactly what needs answering before we touch the device. A clear scope keeps the work focused, keeps costs down and protects the privacy of everyone whose data is on the phone.

Stage 2: Preservation

Until it reaches us, keep the device switched on if it’s on, disconnected from networks (flight mode, or let us advise), and unused. Don’t try to look through it yourself, because simply scrolling can change data.

Stage 3: Extraction

Using validated forensic tools, we create a verified copy and carry out all analysis on that copy. The level of access depends on the phone model, operating system and security settings, and we tell you plainly if that limits what can be retrieved.

Stage 4: Analysis

We reconstruct conversations, timelines and sequences of activity against your questions. If something significant emerges, or something you hoped for can’t be recovered, we tell you straight away rather than at the end.

Stage 5: Reporting

The report covers what was examined and with which tools, what was found, and what couldn’t be recovered and why. If the matter goes further, we can give expert evidence in person.

Frequently asked questions

What is the process for a phone investigation?

Scope and triage, secure preservation with a chain of custody, extraction using validated tools on verified copies, analysis against your questions, then plain-language reporting.

Why use a specialist rather than informal access?

Simply scrolling through a phone changes metadata and risks destroying recoverable data. A documented forensic process keeps conclusions defensible before panels, tribunals or courts.

Getting started

Contact Triage Forensics to start with Stage 1. Tell us what you need to know and by when.