FBI Investigative Techniques Flashcards

What is 'forensic accounting' in the context of FBI financial crime investigations?

Answer: Examination of financial records to detect fraud, embezzlement, or money laundering

Forensic accounting applies accounting methods to investigate financial crimes and produce evidence usable in court.

Which federal law governs the FBI's use of electronic surveillance for foreign intelligence purposes?

Answer: Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA)

FISA establishes the legal framework for electronic surveillance targeting foreign intelligence and terrorism within the U.S.

What does 'consensual monitoring' mean in FBI investigations?

Answer: Recording a conversation with the consent of at least one party

Consensual monitoring involves recording communications where at least one party (often a cooperating witness) has consented.

What is the significance of the 'Exclusionary Rule' to FBI agents gathering evidence?

Answer: Evidence obtained in violation of the Constitution cannot be used in court

The Exclusionary Rule prohibits the use of illegally obtained evidence in court, incentivizing agents to follow proper procedures.

In digital forensics, what is 'write blocker' technology used for?

Answer: Preventing data modification on digital evidence during examination

Write blockers prevent any data from being written to a digital device during forensic examination, preserving evidence integrity.

What is the primary purpose of a 'sting operation' conducted by the FBI?

Answer: To catch suspects actively committing crimes using undercover methods

Sting operations use undercover agents or informants to provide opportunities for suspects to commit crimes, then catch them in the act.