Course Introduction

FCC 2 : Document and Fingerprint Examination

  • Course Outline
  • Curriculum
  • FAQ
  • Case Studies
  • Reviews

Course Start Date        : 3rd Feb 2025

Last Date to Register : 25th Jan 2025

Documents and fingerprints are two of the most common pieces of evidence found at a crime scene and are considered to be the most reliable sources of information to catch suspects and detect forgeries. The online Document & Fingerprint Examination Foundation Certificate Course by Sherlock Institute of Forensic Science will equip you with integrated skills and knowledge of working both at the crime scene and in the laboratory to investigate the authenticity of the evidence.

All the sessions are delivered by instructors who have several years of expertise in solving cases and conducting workshops. You will learn skills to identify, collect, preserve, analyze, and identify the authenticity of documents and fingerprints found at the crime scene, fraud detection tools, principles of fingerprint examination, factors affecting evidence analysis, different types of documents, legal challenges involved in examination, report presentation in the court, Automated Fingerprint Identification System, cross-examination techniques, along with the legal and ethical considerations.

Forensic document analysis and fingerprint identification is an evergreen field, and with rising fraud cases, the demand for skilled document and fingerprint examiners is never going to fade. So, join us today to discover the secrets hidden within documents and fingerprints and how crucial they are in solving crime mysteries.


Become Proficient to Answer:

- What are the fundamental principles of the questioned document examination?

- How are the control and coordination of the brain related to handwriting?

- What are the various types of alterations that can occur in documents, and how are they examined in forensic document analysis?

- How is the dating of paper and the type of ink determined, and what are the legal challenges that can arise in this context?

- How are different identification documents like PAN cards, voter ID cards, and passports examined?

- What are the key aspects to consider while analyzing items such as stamps, bank checks, QR codes and barcodes, seals, and currency?

- How do various forensic tools and techniques, like the stereomicroscope and VSC, electrostatic detection apparatus (ESDA), chromatography and spectrometry, etc., assist during analysis?

- What are the fundamental fingerprint examination principles for personal identification?

- What factors can affect the development of latent fingerprints, and how can we overcome these challenges?

- What is the significance of Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS) in modern forensic fingerprint analysis, and what are the legal requirements associated with them?

- What are the common legal challenges that may arise in the context of fingerprint analysis, and how can we address them in court?

- What are the key insights and discussions typically covered during panel discussions with experts in the field of forensic document and fingerprint analysis?


Learning Outcomes:

Expertise in Document Examination: You will gain knowledge about how to analyze and examine different types of documents, including handwriting, signatures, and printed materials.

Fingerprint Analysis Skills: You will become proficient in fingerprint analysis techniques, including classification and identification. You will also gain insights about fingerprint evidence development techniques found at the crime scene.

Document Forgery Detection: You will be able to identify and detect document forgeries, alterations, and counterfeit materials, as well as learn how to prevent fraudulent activities.

Ethical and Legal Considerations: You will gain an understanding of the legal aspects associated with document and fingerprint examination, ensuring your work complies with established standards and is admissible in court.

Effective Expert Testimony: Your understanding of how to communicate effectively and present your findings during legal proceedings as expert witnesses will improve.


Course Details:

Fee

National: 1770 INR (1500 INR + 18% GST)

International: 50 USD 

Duration

1 Month

Eligibility

12th Passed

Session Timing

From 6 to 7 PM IST  | Monday, Wednesday, Friday

Payment Details:

International Student : PayPal: forensicdocument@gmail.com

Account Details for National Student

Bank Name  - ICICI BANK
Acc. Name    - SIFS INDIA PVT. LTD.
Account No. - 663505500086
Type         - Current
IFSC Code    -   ICIC0000160
Address         - ICICI Bank, H-4, Model Town -III, New Delhi - 110009


  • Curriculum


    MODULE 1 – QUESTIONED DOCUMENT EXAMINATION

    In this module, you will learn about the basic document examination principles and techniques to analyze and compare questioned documents and fingerprints collected from crime scenes with known standards or exemplars. It also covers the art of presenting examination reports in court, along with methods to communicate your findings clearly. You will gain insights into the steps involved in the scientific examination of evidence to explore the field properly.

    MODULE 2 – HANDWRITING & SIGNATURE EXAMINATION

    This module covers the handwriting and signature examination details and the neurological aspects that control the hand movements during writing. You will also explore handwriting and signature examination techniques for analyzing and comparing written samples. This module highlights the importance of carrying out the examination process using scientific methodologies. You will gain basic insights about the cognitive and analytical skills required for the examination of handwriting and signatures.

    MODULE 3 – ALTERED DOCUMENTS EXAMINATION

    In this module you will learn how to examine altered documents and various types of alterations commonly faced during forensic document analysis. You will gain an understanding of techniques to detect and analyze alterations like obliteration, addition, deletion, or erasure, along with the examination of indented and charred documents. You will learn how to identify changes made to the documents and methods used to manipulate or conceal information to uncover fraudulent or tampered-with documents in a legal context.

    MODULE 4 – PAPER AND INK EXAMINATION

    In this module you will learn to identify and analyze paper and ink characteristics within a document analysis framework, along with methods to determine the age of these materials. You will also gain insights about the courtroom cross-examination process, focusing on the techniques to effectively present the document examination reports. It also covers potential legal challenges related to paper and ink examination that might arise during report presentation.

    MODULE 5 – EXAMINATION OF IDENTIFICATION CARDS

    This module focuses on examination methods for common identification cards, like PAN cards, voter ID cards, driving licenses, UID Aadhar cards, and passports. You will learn the basic principles and techniques used by experts to inspect the authenticity of these documents. The module also covers methods for detecting forged or tampered features and evaluates the overall genuineness of identification cards, which is crucial to ensuring the security of personal identification systems and preventing identity fraud in various legal and security environments.

    MODULE 6 – FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND CURRENCY EXAMINATION

    In this module you will learn how to examine financial instruments and currency-related documents, like stamp and e-stamp paper, bankers' cheques, QR codes, barcodes, and identification features of Indian and other currencies. You will also gain insights into the principles and methodologies to detect counterfeit and fraudulent activities related to these financial instruments and currency notes and verify their genuineness. You will learn to examine several security features, seals, and seal impressions to validate the reliability of financial transactions and prevent financial crimes.

    MODULE 7 – EXAMINATION TOOLS AND ADVANCEMENTS

    This module will provide you with an overview of essential tools used in forensic document examination, like a Stereomicroscope (detailed visual analysis), a Spectral Comparator (VSC to detect alterations and security features), and Detection Apparatus (ESDA to reveal intended or erased writing). Along with these, chromatography and spectrometry methods for ink analysis will also be discussed. You will also gain insights about the latest advancements and trends in the questioned document examination.

    MODULE 8 – FINGERPRINT ANALYSIS AND EXAMINATION

    In this module you will gain foundational knowledge in fingerprint analysis and learn fingerprint examination basic techniques and analysis principles. This module covers the crucial role fingerprints play in personal identification owing to their uniqueness and permanence. You will also study Galton's Classification system. The module also covers the study of ridge characteristics, which are the patterns and minutiae present in fingerprints, and how to analyze them during forensic fingerprint investigations.

    MODULE 9 – DEVELOPING AND PRESERVING LATENT FINGERPRINTS

    In this module you will learn about the development and preservation techniques of latent fingerprints and factors that affect their use as evidence. You will learn about using innovative methods like LASER and other radiation to reveal latent prints. The metal deposition method will be discussed as a way to develop prints on skin surfaces. Also, you gain knowledge about various techniques used to lift and preserve fingerprints, which is essential to maintaining latent print evidence reliability in forensic investigations, along with skills for fingerprint recovery and preservation.

    MODULE 10 – AUTOMATED FINGERPRINT IDENTIFICATION SYSTEMS

    This module introduces Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS) and related technologies. You gain insights about the basic principles of AFIS, which streamline fingerprint matching and identification processes. This module also covers the use of Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (IAFIS) and the Next Generation Identification (NGI) system, which have the capability to enhance the process of fingerprint analysis and database management within legal contexts in criminal investigations and personal identification.

    MODULE 11 – LEGAL ASPECTS OF FINGERPRINT EXAMINATION

    In this module you will understand the legal aspects and challenges associated with fingerprint examination. You will learn about potential legal challenges that experts might face during the interpretation of fingerprint evidence in court, making its admissibility difficult. Also, learn about the process of cross-examination while presenting fingerprint examination reports in court. It is crucial for fingerprint experts to deeply understand the significance of presenting their findings in a way that they can easily withstand legal scrutiny, making a successful contribution to criminal investigations and court proceedings.

    MODULE 12 – PANEL DISCUSSION WITH EXPERTS

    This module gives you an opportunity to engage in a panel discussion with forensic document and fingerprint examination experts. During the discussion, experts will share their experiences and provide valuable insights from a real-world perspective, along with the challenges involved and advancements made over the years in these forensic domains. This interactive session will allow you to clarify your doubts, seek career guidance, and learn about the practical applications of forensic document and fingerprint examination in different scenarios that will surely enhance your learning experience.

  • What steps should I follow to enroll for this foundation certificate course?

    To enroll, click on the “Register for Course” option available on the right side of the screen, followed by the provided instructions and payment procedure.

  • Who is eligible to enroll in this foundation certificate course?

    12th (of any stream) pass or any graduate student can enroll in the foundation certificate course.

  • How will I receive confirmation once I have completed the payment procedure?

    Admission Confirmation email will be sent to your registered email ID once the payment is verified.

  • Are there any prerequisites for this foundation certificate course?

    In case of any prerequisites provided by the resource person, we will provide the students with prior information on their WhatsApp group.

  • Are there any live lectures provided in this foundation certificate course?

    Yes, live lectures will be conducted through Zoom.

  • How will I receive the session joining link?

    Enrolled students will receive the session joining link via WhatsApp group.

  • What will be the duration of the lecture?

    The duration of each lecture will be 1 hour and 15 minutes of discussion.

  • Will I get the recorded lectures?

    Yes, recorded lectures will be provided through your portal.

  • Can the study materials be accessed at any time?

    All the course material will be available on the portal. Hence, you can access it 24/7 and study at your own pace.

  • What are the benefits of completing this foundation certificate course?

    Completing the Online Foundation Certificate Course will equip you with the essential knowledge and skills required for entry-level positions. It can also serve as a strong foundation for further education or career advancement in forensic science.

  • Is there a certificate awarded upon completion of the foundation certificate course?

    Yes, upon successful completion of the foundation certificate course, you will receive an eCertificate, which can be a valuable addition to your resume and may enhance your career prospects in the field.

  • Where to contact in case of any queries?

    Write to us at education@sifs.in, call: +91-1147074263, or WhatsApp: +91-7303913002.  

  • Is a refund available after payment and registration?

    Kindly go through the syllabus and curriculum of the course carefully. No refund is possible once the payment is made.

Robert Alan Durst Case Study

He was an American real estate heir. In 1982, he was suspected of the disappearance of his first wife; in 2003, he was acquitted of killing his neighbor; and in 2021, he was convicted of killing his friend. A documentary series titled ‘The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst’, was made in 2015 on his life incidents that gained him popularity.

He moved to Galveston during the time the case of his first wife missing was to be reopened. A month later, after he moved to this place, a lady named Susan Berman was found shot dead at the back of the head. She was to be interviewed in his wife’s case.

She was also his longtime friend. But the letters exchanged between the two pointed towards unfriendly relations between them.

On the day when her body was discovered, a letter was received by police in which her address was misspelled as “Beverley Hills.”

As evidence, the writing on the anonymous letter that police received matched the one Durst sent to Berman. The letter was written using all capital letters. Not only did the writing match, but the spelling of Beverly Hills was also misspelled as “Beverley Hills."

On September 17, 2021, he was convicted of the first-degree murder of Susan Berman. The jury also found him guilty of several other charges. He got life imprisonment on October 14, 2021. Also, his request for a new trial was declined due to the abundance of evidence. Though his lawyers filed appeals in the California legal system, all went in vain because of his death.


Note: This is only a glimpse of one of a few case studies that we might cover. All case studies are subject to change as per current trends and developments, except a few famous ones from the past.

Arya Praful Shahare

5

All the lessons were in-depth with real-life case studies. It was worth enrolling in this course—a game-changer for forensic enthusiasts!

Clavis Gordon Duke

5

I learned several new concepts about document and fingerprint analysis during this course. Outstanding guidance was offered by SIFS. Thanks a lot.

Rithuvarna. C

5

The course was a perfect blend of in-depth modules and interactive learning and served as a pathway to a fascinating career.

Arundhati Kumari

5

Kudos to SIFS India! The document and fingerprint examination program is outstanding. I learned a lot of new stuff and got ready to move ahead with confidence.

Vaishnavi Vivek Sawant

5

Real-world insights, experienced mentors, interactive sessions, and in-depth study material. A must for those looking for a future in forensic examination.

 

Instructors

Mr.  Abhishek Vashisth

Mr. Abhishek Vashisth

Forensic Document Examiner
Dr. Kapil Kumar

Dr. Kapil Kumar

Associate Professor and Coordinator
Dr. Rajesh Kumar

Dr. Rajesh Kumar

Head, Department of Forensic Science
Dr. Ranjeet Singh

Dr. Ranjeet Singh

Managing Director
Mr. Mohinder Singh

Mr. Mohinder Singh

Forensic Document Consultant
Mr. Phaneendar B N

Mr. Phaneendar B N

CEO, Clue4 Evidence

Preview this course

₹ 1770
Call for Assistance
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Ask Your Query

Enquiries from Forensic Learners


During this course, you will develop foundational skills like analyzing and interpreting various documents and fingerprints, handwriting comparison, fingerprint pattern examination, paper and ink analysis, currency and ID cards examination, legal standards, and ethical considerations involved through theoretical lectures, case studies, and practical demonstration of tools involved. By the end of this course, you will have enough understanding necessary for a career in forensic document and fingerprint analysis.

The course provides a solid foundation in essential skills, such as analyzing and interpreting documents and fingerprints. This course will equip you with essential theoretical knowledge and basic practical skills to handle real-world cases. It is an advancement to your existing knowledge, and to handle everything independently, you need to pursue higher-level courses or specialized training in the field.

Yes, this course is beginner-friendly. So, even if you have no previous knowledge of questioned documents and fingerprint examination, you can enroll to build a strong foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of document and fingerprint analysis. You will gain a basic understanding of both, and if you feel to make a career in this field and are ready for a long-term commitment, then this course covers everything to effectively prepare you for more advanced topics in the future.

Yes, the course does include hands-on activities, but since it is an online format, you will have access to demonstrations rather than physical exercises. Real-life case studies will be covered, illustrating the techniques in document and fingerprint examination. These case studies are designed to enhance your understanding and apply what you have learned to practical scenarios. The demos will give you valuable insights into real-world applications in the field.

Your learnings during the course will be assessed through an online MCQ-based exam, which will be at the end of the course and in which 40% passing marks are required to receive the e-certificate.If you require a hard copy of the certificate you can contact the course coordinators and it can be made available at an additional postal cost.

Yes, upon completing the course, you will receive a recognized e-certificate that holds immense value in the forensic field. This certificate serves as proof of your skills and knowledge in document and fingerprint examination. It will increase your credibility and highlight your commitment to the profession and an understanding of the relevant methodologies and techniques.

The sessions in the course are delivered online and will provide a balanced combination of both theoretical knowledge and practical demos with a focus on real-world case studies. If you are looking for hands-on activities, we recommend you explore various offline internships, trainings, and courses we offer.

You will get an opportunity for direct interaction with instructors through Q&A sessions at the end of each lecture, allowing you to ask questions and seek clarification on any topics you find challenging. This will help you to fully understand the concepts being taught. If you have any specific concerns or need more information, you can contact the course coordinators for more assistance.

All sessions in this course are conducted live and span over a month. To get the maximum benefit from the real-time interactions with instructors and peers, we recommend you attend all sessions and enhance your learning experience. If you might miss a class, study materials and recordings will be uploaded to the online study portal, to which you will have lifetime access. This means you can easily access the resources and recorded sessions whenever needed. However, the content is available in viewable mode only.

While this course does not provide specialized software or tools directly, you will receive valuable insights into various tools that are commonly used for examining documents and fingerprints. Some of these tools are available as open-source software, which means you can access and use them for free online. Others may require a purchase or subscription. You will become familiar with the usage of these tools and how to effectively use them in your examinations.

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