UniSC tracking tech could solve sensitive cases in law enforcement

Research at the University of the Sunshine Coast has resulted in technology capable of assisting intelligence agencies to solve hostage, child exploitation or human trafficking cases.

Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering Kenneth Ang is championing a method that reveals where videos and images were taken, even when senders try to obscure their location. The patented technology overcomes difficulties for intelligence and law enforcement agencies when GPS or other metadata has been lost or purposely erased.

“On video and audio files, you will find an almost undetectable electric network frequency (ENF) signature that can be present in the background,” Ang said. “Smartphones and other devices can capture ENF through light-flicker effects in the image sensor, which we then cross-reference with fluctuations in the power grid. Through this we can give a fairly precise idea of where that file was captured, and at what time.

“As the importance of multimedia files in criminal investigations grows, digital forensics can be key to achieving the best outcome.”

Aside from hostage, child exploitation and human trafficking cases, the geolocation technology could help in matters involving missing persons, domestic violence, property damage and a variety of other offences.

Ang is focusing on markets in North America, Europe, Asia and Oceania, and is seeking commercialisation partners for the technology’s development and deployment.

“We’re at a very exciting stage where I can see the huge impact this could make in so many situations,” he said. “It could be the difference between a loved one coming home or not, a tense situation being resolved, or preventing somebody from prolonged suffering.

“Sometimes electrical and computer engineering sounds quite impersonal, but this is a prime example of helping individuals and families in a very deep and meaningful way. It’s immensely fulfilling for us as scientists when all the years of study and research lead to advancements that have the ability to be life-changing.”

Image: Professor Ang in his lab. Credit: UniSC