ACFTI Partnership with Defense Strategies Institute Strengthens Mission-Critical Collaboration in Digital Forensics

The Association of Cyber Forensics and Threat Investigators (ACFTI) announces a strategic partnership with the Defense Strategies Institute (DSI), a premier institute dedicated to facilitating open and balanced discussions among key stakeholders of the United States’ Military and Government. This partnership marks a significant step forward in advancing mission-critical objectives—particularly in the field of digital forensics—by uniting resources, expertise, and collaborative platforms for agencies across the defense and intelligence communities.

In alignment with this mission, DSI’s 6th Annual Digital Forensics for National Security Symposium will be held on May 14–15, 2025, at 151 St George, National Harbor, MD. Renowned for its high-level educational training, forums, and town-hall style symposiums, DSI’s annual gathering spotlights cutting-edge strategies, emerging technologies, and forward-thinking approaches to combat rapidly evolving digital threats.

“This partnership exemplifies our commitment to supporting those charged with protecting national security,” said Prof. Walker, Board Chair of ACFTI. “By joining forces with the Defense Strategies Institute, we can foster deeper dialogue and drive innovation in digital forensics—a vital component in defending against cybercrime and safeguarding America’s critical infrastructure.”

Event Overview

The symposium will bring together leading voices from the Department of Defense, federal government, intelligence agencies, industry, and academia. Featured experts include top executives such as Lesley H. Bernys, SES (Director, DoD Cyber Crime Center), Michael R. Centrella, SES (Assistant Director, Office of Field Operations, US Secret Service), and many more. Attendees will explore modern methods of cybercrime investigation, policies governing digital forensics, and potential collaborations across agencies to promote best practices and information sharing.

Among the many topics to be covered, participants will delve into:

• The latest investigative tools supporting DC3’s national security partners

• Cutting-edge forensic science techniques that strengthen the criminal justice system

• Evolving digital forensics challenges and best practices in a fast-changing technological landscape

• The role of eDiscovery technologies in modern investigative work

• The future of digital forensics in protecting U.S. assets, leaders, and infrastructure

Importance of Digital Forensics

Recent estimates suggest that cybercrime cost the United States over $350 billion in 2024. As digital threats expand and become more sophisticated, the need for digital forensics expertise has never been greater. This symposium aims to showcase how thorough digital evidence gathering, analysis, and preservation are essential for successfully prosecuting cybercriminals and mitigating future vulnerabilities.

Opportunities for Engagement

Organizations and experts looking to broaden their impact are encouraged to attend the networking sessions and share best practices with a highly specialized audience. With interactive sessions, keynote addresses, and a robust lineup of speakers, the event promises valuable insights into the current state and future of cyber forensics.

Registration and Further Information

For more details on the 6th Annual Digital Forensics for National Security Symposium—including the full speaker lineup and agenda—please visit: https://digitalforensics.dsigroup.org

Early registration is encouraged as space is limited.

Summit is CLOSED TO PRESS / NO RECORDINGS