Course Introduction

MODULE 1 – QUESTIONED DOCUMENT EXAMINATION

In this module, you will learn about the basic document examination principles and techniques to analyze and compare questioned documents and fingerprints collected from crime scenes with known standards or exemplars. It also covers the art of presenting examination reports in court, along with methods to communicate your findings clearly. You will gain insights into the steps involved in the scientific examination of evidence to explore the field properly.

MODULE 2 – HANDWRITING & SIGNATURE EXAMINATION

This module covers the handwriting and signature examination details and the neurological aspects that control the hand movements during writing. You will also explore handwriting and signature examination techniques for analyzing and comparing written samples. This module highlights the importance of carrying out the examination process using scientific methodologies. You will gain basic insights about the cognitive and analytical skills required for the examination of handwriting and signatures.

MODULE 3 – ALTERED DOCUMENTS EXAMINATION

In this module you will learn how to examine altered documents and various types of alterations commonly faced during forensic document analysis. You will gain an understanding of techniques to detect and analyze alterations like obliteration, addition, deletion, or erasure, along with the examination of indented and charred documents. You will learn how to identify changes made to the documents and methods used to manipulate or conceal information to uncover fraudulent or tampered-with documents in a legal context.

MODULE 4 – PAPER AND INK EXAMINATION

In this module you will learn to identify and analyze paper and ink characteristics within a document analysis framework, along with methods to determine the age of these materials. You will also gain insights about the courtroom cross-examination process, focusing on the techniques to effectively present the document examination reports. It also covers potential legal challenges related to paper and ink examination that might arise during report presentation.

MODULE 5 – EXAMINATION OF IDENTIFICATION CARDS

This module focuses on examination methods for common identification cards, like PAN cards, voter ID cards, driving licenses, UID Aadhar cards, and passports. You will learn the basic principles and techniques used by experts to inspect the authenticity of these documents. The module also covers methods for detecting forged or tampered features and evaluates the overall genuineness of identification cards, which is crucial to ensuring the security of personal identification systems and preventing identity fraud in various legal and security environments.

MODULE 6 – FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND CURRENCY EXAMINATION

In this module you will learn how to examine financial instruments and currency-related documents, like stamp and e-stamp paper, bankers' cheques, QR codes, barcodes, and identification features of Indian and other currencies. You will also gain insights into the principles and methodologies to detect counterfeit and fraudulent activities related to these financial instruments and currency notes and verify their genuineness. You will learn to examine several security features, seals, and seal impressions to validate the reliability of financial transactions and prevent financial crimes.

MODULE 7 – EXAMINATION TOOLS AND ADVANCEMENTS

This module will provide you with an overview of essential tools used in forensic document examination, like a Stereomicroscope (detailed visual analysis), a Spectral Comparator (VSC to detect alterations and security features), and Detection Apparatus (ESDA to reveal intended or erased writing). Along with these, chromatography and spectrometry methods for ink analysis will also be discussed. You will also gain insights about the latest advancements and trends in the questioned document examination.

MODULE 8 – FINGERPRINT ANALYSIS AND EXAMINATION

In this module you will gain foundational knowledge in fingerprint analysis and learn fingerprint examination basic techniques and analysis principles. This module covers the crucial role fingerprints play in personal identification owing to their uniqueness and permanence. You will also study Galton's Classification system. The module also covers the study of ridge characteristics, which are the patterns and minutiae present in fingerprints, and how to analyze them during forensic fingerprint investigations.

MODULE 9 – DEVELOPING AND PRESERVING LATENT FINGERPRINTS

In this module you will learn about the development and preservation techniques of latent fingerprints and factors that affect their use as evidence. You will learn about using innovative methods like LASER and other radiation to reveal latent prints. The metal deposition method will be discussed as a way to develop prints on skin surfaces. Also, you gain knowledge about various techniques used to lift and preserve fingerprints, which is essential to maintaining latent print evidence reliability in forensic investigations, along with skills for fingerprint recovery and preservation.

MODULE 10 – AUTOMATED FINGERPRINT IDENTIFICATION SYSTEMS

This module introduces Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS) and related technologies. You gain insights about the basic principles of AFIS, which streamline fingerprint matching and identification processes. This module also covers the use of Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (IAFIS) and the Next Generation Identification (NGI) system, which have the capability to enhance the process of fingerprint analysis and database management within legal contexts in criminal investigations and personal identification.

MODULE 11 – LEGAL ASPECTS OF FINGERPRINT EXAMINATION

In this module you will understand the legal aspects and challenges associated with fingerprint examination. You will learn about potential legal challenges that experts might face during the interpretation of fingerprint evidence in court, making its admissibility difficult. Also, learn about the process of cross-examination while presenting fingerprint examination reports in court. It is crucial for fingerprint experts to deeply understand the significance of presenting their findings in a way that they can easily withstand legal scrutiny, making a successful contribution to criminal investigations and court proceedings.

MODULE 12 – PANEL DISCUSSION WITH EXPERTS

This module gives you an opportunity to engage in a panel discussion with forensic document and fingerprint examination experts. During the discussion, experts will share their experiences and provide valuable insights from a real-world perspective, along with the challenges involved and advancements made over the years in these forensic domains. This interactive session will allow you to clarify your doubts, seek career guidance, and learn about the practical applications of forensic document and fingerprint examination in different scenarios that will surely enhance your learning experience.

To enroll, click on the “Register for Course” option available on the right side of the screen, followed by the provided instructions and payment procedure.