Understanding Timing Advance

Timing Advance (TA) is a data set within cellular network records that can provide valuable insight into device location. The class introduces the fundamentals of Timing Advance—what it is, how it is generated, and how it can be used as an investigative lead. Participants will learn how TA differs from call detail records (CDRs), why it is essential to network operations, and how to interpret, visualize, and validate TA data. Best practices for mapping TA will be explored, along with the reliability and limitations of TA for location analysis. The use of Area Searches as an investigative tool will also be discussed. By the end of the session, attendees will have greater confidence using TA as a supplementary location data source in criminal investigations. This is not a step-by-step mapping or software “how-to” class.

Who should attend?

This class is geared toward DETECTIVES new to writing search warrants for TA, ANALYSTS required to analyze TA and make investigative/ analytical recommendations, and PROSECUTORS who present TA as evidence in court.

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