As technology continues to shape the way we communicate, Voice over IP (VoIP) has become a crucial tool. VoIP enables phone calls and messages to be transmitted over the internet, presenting both advantages and unique challenges in legal cases. This week, we’re spotlighting our lead investigator, Bobby Young, and his journey to becoming a VoIP expert. His expertise in understanding the intricacies of VoIP technology has been instrumental in solving complex cases involving anonymous communications.

The Role of VoIP in Investigations

In modern investigations, VoIP addresses are increasingly encountered in cases where individuals attempt to mask the origins of calls or messages. Since VoIP numbers can be created quickly and often remain anonymous, tracing them demands specialized knowledge and unique investigative tactics. Bobby Young has developed a deep understanding of these complexities, allowing him to navigate the legal and technical hurdles associated with VoIP investigations.

Case Review: Bobby Young’s Expertise in Action

In a recent high-stakes case, Nashville Attorney John Webb sought out Bobby Young’s expertise on VoIP numbers. The case involved a defendant charged with offenses tied to alleged messages sent to an accuser. While some messages were confirmed to be from the defendant’s primary phone number, others were traced to different VoIP numbers, raising questions about their origin. The objective was to determine whether the defendant had actually sent these messages or if someone else was trying to frame them.

Investigative Process and Findings

Thanks to Bobby’s extensive knowledge in handling VoIP-related cases, the team was able to carry out a comprehensive investigation. Here’s how Bobby approached the case:

  1. Subpoenaing VoIP Service Providers: Bobby knew that tracing VoIP numbers required collaboration with telecommunications companies. He issued subpoenas to various providers to uncover the ownership and usage history of the numbers in question. Because these numbers often belong to larger companies acting as intermediaries, finding the actual end user is challenging. Bobby’s understanding of the legal processes helped in gathering this information efficiently.
  2. Digital Analysis with Advanced Tools: Bobby used tools like Cellebrite to perform a full digital analysis of the defendant’s phone. By creating a detailed timeline of texts and the associated phone numbers, he traced VoIP numbers back to wholesale providers. His expertise allowed him to identify patterns and recognize which apps or services were potentially used, giving him clues on the numbers’ origins.
  3. Tracking Apps and Messaging Services: Bobby discovered that many of the VoIP messages were linked to popular internet-based messaging apps like Skout, MeetMe, and Signal. He also found that Textfree, an app supporting VoIP calls and texts, was used on the defendant’s phone. His familiarity with these platforms provided valuable insights, helping to establish whether the defendant was responsible for the messages or if someone else was attempting to manipulate the situation.

Challenges with VoIP in Investigations

Although VoIP offers flexibility, it brings unique challenges in legal cases. Here’s how Bobby’s expertise has helped overcome these obstacles:

  • Anonymity: VoIP numbers are often untraceable to specific individuals unless legal protocols, like subpoenas, are followed. Bobby’s knowledge of these procedures enables him to tackle anonymous communications effectively, building reliable cases for his clients.
  • Understanding Service Providers: Many VoIP services operate through wholesale providers, meaning they don’t keep end-user records. Bobby’s experience in navigating multiple layers of communication providers ensures that his team gathers essential information from the right sources.
  • Strict Data Collection Protocols: Legal demands for VoIP records require strict compliance, and the process can be lengthy. Bobby’s familiarity with data collection protocols has been invaluable, enabling his team to retrieve crucial information within tight timelines.

As VoIP technology continues to evolve, so does its role in investigations. Our lead investigator, Bobby Young, has become a go-to expert in this field, mastering the intricacies of VoIP to solve complex cases. Through secure subpoenas, digital analysis, and thorough understanding of VoIP platforms, Bobby has demonstrated how critical specialized knowledge is for modern investigations.

Stay tuned for more in our blog series as we explore the latest technology’s impact on investigative work. This week, we celebrate Bobby Young’s expertise in VoIP and the difference it makes for our clients!

Covert Results is the premier private investigations, armed security, cyber security, and training company you’ve been searching for. Our team of highly skilled experts has amassed over 100 years of experience in all fields, from investigations to security concerns. Being a member and working within a global network called The Entrepreneurs Organization allows us to provide excellent service anywhere on Earth – truly bringing peace of mind through our world class services! Be sure to follow @CovertResults across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for the latest information regarding investigator expertise as well as lighthearted moments shared by our community! If you need us to guide you to that peace of mind you are looking for, call or text 615-861-1680 or email contact@covertresults.com.