Digital traces are omnipresent in the present criminal investigations. These include messages, photos, videos found in our cell phones or computers. However, can we say that these traces completely replace fingerprints or DNA samples? Are they complementary and in this case, what is their added value? In reality, these traces provide a dispassionate view of the course of a crime, from its conception to its realization, exposing also possible complicities and attempts to conceal.
With examples of some real cases, David shows us the power of these traces in the characterization and resolution of a crime. The fascinating world of scientific investigations gives us a first-rate look at the impact digital traces are having on criminal prosecutions and trials. David Billard received a PhD in computer science from the University of Montpellier, France, in 1995. He worked at the University of Geneva, Switzerland, from 1995 to 2000 as a research fellow, then he headed the University software developments until 2008. Since 2008 he is associate professor at the University of Applied Sciences in Western Switzerland in Geneva.
He is also a lecturer at the University of Lausanne (criminal school) and University of Stockholm (DSV). David Billard is a sworn expert to the courts in France and Switzerland (French speaking cantons)and International Criminal Court in the Hague. He participated in more than 150 criminal investigations and 50 civil litigations. He publishes regularly about cyber forensics and privacy. David is married with three children, he likes to share his free time with his family by sailing on the Mediterranean Sea, off the Camargue.
