Cell site analysis is the process of using a mobile phone’s call data records, supplied by the mobile phone company, to trace the historic geographical movement of the phone as it moved from place to place. When the phone is attributed to an individual, it can be a powerful tool in criminal investigations.

Call data records are similar to billing records, except that they show much more information about a particular call or text message. For example, they include details of the mast used at the start and end of the call.

Using this information, CCL-Forensics cell site team can analyse and map the historical movement of the phone in question, focusing in on places and times of interest.

Where necessary, a survey can be undertaken to determine if a particular mobile phone mast could have provided service on a particular occasion. This involves driving a specially-equipped vehicle around the area, while it surveys coverage from numerous masts on a range of mobile networks.

The data is then represented on a map, and can be a significant part of an investigation if a phone was attributed to an individual who claimed to have been – or not been – in a particular location at a particular time.

In addition to “drive surveys”, CCL-Forensics also uses the latest in handheld technology for areas inaccessible to vehicles.

Cell site analysis is used mainly in criminal investigations – and can be used by prosecution and defence. Please choose your sector:

• Cell site in prosecution
• Cell site in defence