Community on consensual forensics for the defense of human rights

This repository aims to promote consensual forensic analysis within civil society for the defense of human rights through proven, flexible, and accessible knowledge generated by an entire community of practice. For over a decade, organizations such as Citizen Lab and the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) have applied forensic science in consensual environments to uncover the use of surveillance technologies against at-risk individuals in civil society.

In recent years, new initiatives have emerged seeking greater accountability for digital attacks. Organizations from the Global North—such as Amnesty International, Access Now, Reporters Without Borders, among others—have launched their own forensic labs. At the same time, labs in the global majority have also exposed abuses against civil society. Many of these labs come together in networks like CiviCERT or regional communities.

We believe it is essential to encourage and support more organizations in integrating forensic science into their investigation and incident response efforts. At the same time, we understand that completing a forensic analysis that results in accountability actions requires a minimum level of operational maturity and technical capability. This repository seeks to collect, share, and promote this knowledge, especially among labs in the Global Majority, in order to build a solid and common foundation that fosters practical collaborations.

It is important to note that theoretical and practical knowledge is just one of the many elements required to produce a solid technical analysis. In addition, it is necessary to establish a relationship of trust with affected individuals, implement strong procedures (such as those related to informed consent), understand risks, foster collaboration, and follow good operational security practices, among others.

Developing these skills and capacities takes time and resources, which are often limited within civil society, specially in the global majority. This is why collaboration and working together are the best tactics to exchange knowledge and experiences. If you are a civil society organization and are interested in integrating forensic processes into your work—or in investigating the possible use of surveillance technologies in your region—you can contact us at seguridad@socialtic.org to discuss important considerations and identify the best way to strengthen your capacities.