New Technology Archives | Foster+Freeman https://fosterfreeman.com/category/news/new-technology/ Improving the Quality of Forensic Evidence Wed, 29 Apr 2026 12:21:50 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://fosterfreeman.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/cropped-Site-Icon-32x32.png New Technology Archives | Foster+Freeman https://fosterfreeman.com/category/news/new-technology/ 32 32 foster+freeman Launches VSC ForeFront®: Triple-Layer Identity Authentication for Frontline Operations  https://fosterfreeman.com/fosterfreeman-launches-vsc-forefront-triple-layer-identity-authentication-for-frontline-operations/ https://fosterfreeman.com/fosterfreeman-launches-vsc-forefront-triple-layer-identity-authentication-for-frontline-operations/#respond Wed, 29 Apr 2026 12:21:49 +0000 https://fosterfreeman.com/?p=25172 foster+freeman Launches VSC ForeFront®: Triple-Layer Identity Authentication for Frontline Operations  foster+freeman, a global leader in forensic technology, is proud to announce the ufoster+freeman, a global leader...

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foster+freeman Launches VSC ForeFront®: Triple-Layer Identity Authentication for Frontline Operations 

foster+freeman, a global leader in forensic technology, is proud to announce the ufoster+freeman, a global leader in forensic science innovation and document examination technology, is proud to announce the launch of VSC ForeFront®, a rugged, field-ready document examination and identity authentication system designed to bring forensic-level capability directly to frontline and second-line operations.

Developed to meet the growing challenge of sophisticated document and identity fraud, VSC ForeFront® combines three critical layers of authentication into a single operational platform:

  • Physical document inspection
  • Digital e-Chip interrogation
  • Biometric facial matching

Designed for use in border control, immigration, law enforcement, mobile enforcement, and high-security identity verification environments, VSC ForeFront® bridges the gap between rapid frontline screening and specialist forensic laboratory analysis.

Using multispectral imaging under visible, ultraviolet, infrared, and coaxial illumination, the system performs advanced physical document inspection capable of identifying tampering, alterations, and counterfeit security features. Integrated VSC-STAC (Secure Trust Authentication Chain) technology delivers forensic-level interrogation of e-passport and e-ID chip data, enabling operators to detect cloned chips, manipulated data, and compromised digital identities through a simple traffic-light style interface.

In addition, VSC ForeFront® incorporates live biometric facial comparison, allowing operators to compare the live subject against both the printed document image and the secure facial image stored within the e-Chip helping expose “look-alike” fraud attempts that may otherwise evade detection.

Packaged within a ruggedised mobile configuration and capable of operating via mains or vehicle power, VSC ForeFront® enables high-confidence identity verification in remote and operational environments without sacrificing throughput or usability.

Document fraud continues to evolve rapidly, and frontline teams need tools capable of going beyond basic screening. VSC ForeFront® delivers a new standard in portable identity authentication by combining forensic multispectral examination, advanced e-Chip interrogation, and biometric verification into a single deployable solution.

Positioned within the wider VSC ecosystem, VSC ForeFront® extends forensic-level capability closer to the point of interception while maintaining seamless integration with laboratory workflows and advanced examination platforms such as the VSC 9000.

VSC ForeFront® is now available for deployment worldwide.

VSC ForeFront Desktop

VSC®ForeFront

The VSC ForeFront is a standalone, field-ready document screening system designed for high-stakes identity authentication environments including border control and mobile enforcement operations. While portable, its high-specification hardware remains fully suitable for laboratory use.

Learn More

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]]> https://fosterfreeman.com/fosterfreeman-launches-vsc-forefront-triple-layer-identity-authentication-for-frontline-operations/feed/ 0 foster+freeman to Tackle Prison Drug Crisis with Launch of ContraSCAN™ Detection Technology https://fosterfreeman.com/fosterfreeman-to-tackle-prison-drug-crisis-with-launch-of-contrascan-detection-technology/ https://fosterfreeman.com/fosterfreeman-to-tackle-prison-drug-crisis-with-launch-of-contrascan-detection-technology/#respond Wed, 11 Mar 2026 08:54:02 +0000 https://fosterfreeman.com/?p=25031 foster+freeman, a global leader in forensic technology, is proud to announce the upcoming launch of ContraSCAN™, a revolutionary handheld device designed to detect dangerous synthetic drugs, including “Spice” in real-time.

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foster+freeman to Tackle Prison Drug Crisis with Launch of ContraSCAN™ Detection Technology

foster+freeman, a global leader in forensic technology, is proud to announce the upcoming launch of ContraSCAN™, a revolutionary handheld device designed to detect dangerous synthetic drugs, including “Spice” in real-time.

Developed through an exclusive licensing agreement with the University of Bath, ContraSCAN provides a critical breakthrough for prison services, law enforcement, and secure facilities struggling to combat the endemic trade of illicit substances.

Turning the Tide on Synthetic Drugs

The smuggling of synthetic cannabinoids, often soaked into paper, clothing, and legal mail, has reached a crisis point. These substances are frequently linked to increased violence, medical emergencies, and fatalities within prisons and correctional facilities. Until now, detecting these “invisible” threats required time-consuming screening tools and costly laboratory analysis, creating a dangerous delay in operational response.

ContraSCAN changes the game by offering:

  • Instant Optical Detection: Rapidly identifies the presence of synthetic cannabinoids, including Spice, upon contact, significantly enhancing throughput for the critical task of screening mail and property.
  • Forensic Accuracy, Simply Operated: Delivers high-confidence, presumptive results that allow staff to take immediate operational action on-site.
  • Non-Destructive Screening: Preserves the integrity of the evidence for further laboratory identification.
  • Frontline Safety: Protects staff from accidental exposure to potent synthetics.

A Critical Solution

“The trade and use of synthetic cannabinoids in prisons is a critical security challenge,” said Phil Wild, CEO of foster+freeman. “With drug use in our prisons at endemic levels, ContraSCAN represents a vital breakthrough. By enabling the instant detection of synthetics like Spice, we are empowering HMPPS and other agencies to reclaim control, disrupt supply chains, and restore the safety essential for meaningful prisoner rehabilitation.”

The technology is built upon unique IP developed by Professor Chris Pudney and his team at the University of Bath’s Department of Life Sciences. By translating this award-winning research into a rugged, portable tool, foster+freeman is providing a cost-effective alternative to existing high-end scanners.

Availability

ContraSCAN is set to reach frontline services later this year.  Organisations interested in the deployment of ContraSCAN or in participating in upcoming technology demonstrations can register their interest at fosterfreeman.com/forensic-drug-solutions/ or contact the specialist forensic team at info@fosterfreeman.com.

Forensic Drug Solutions

Our drug detection technologies deliver high-confidence results where speed and accuracy matter. Designed for real-world deployment, they support forensic science, policing and secure settings without reliance on delayed laboratory analysis.

Learn More

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]]> https://fosterfreeman.com/fosterfreeman-to-tackle-prison-drug-crisis-with-launch-of-contrascan-detection-technology/feed/ 0 Card and Collectible Graders turn to Forensic Technology https://fosterfreeman.com/card-grading-technology/ https://fosterfreeman.com/card-grading-technology/#respond Tue, 02 May 2023 12:22:08 +0000 https://fosterfreeman.com/chemical-reagents-the-missing-link-in-fingermark-validation-copy/ As Collectible Card Game (CCG) and Trading Card Game (TCG) items have increased in value, so too has the need for these items to be accurately verified, authenticated and graded.

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Card Graders turn to forensic technology as they seek to put a price on high-value collectables

In recent years, online trading, valuation and authentication of collectable trading cards has been transformed from a niche pastime into a multi-million dollar industry. As the market for trading cards continues to grow, collectors are increasingly turning to third-party grading companies to verify the authenticity and condition of their cards.

As Collectible Card Game (CCG) and Trading Card Game (TCG) items have increased in value, so too has the need for these items to be accurately verified, authenticated and graded (for quality). In addition to rarity, factors including authenticity, quality, and condition can significantly affect a card’s valuation. Due to this, card grading companies are increasingly turning to forster+freeman VSC technology as they seek to identify a forensic-level solution to card grading.

How are Card Graders using VSC Technology?

Card grading companies use VSC forensic technology to authenticate and grade high-value trading cards by employing various techniques to analyze the card’s physical properties and characteristics.

See the full video from ACE Grading on youtube

high value pokemon are graded for quality
Trading cards are graded by quality or condition

Surface analysis under high magnification:

Using a VSC card graders are able to examine the surface of a card for evidence of alterations, alterations or irregularities. For example, they may look for signs of erasing, re-inking, or other modifications indicating forgery or tampering.

Multi-spectral UV-Vis-IR examination:

Full spectral imaging can reveal details on a card that may not be visible under normal lighting conditions. Card grading companies use UV light to detect hidden elements, such as watermarks or fibres, that can help confirm the card’s authenticity.

UV examination of a trading card
The appearance of trading cards will change under UV-Vis-IR light
Microscopic analysis of paper, card and ink
Surface or material analysis may reveal imperfections or forgery

Spectrometry and Ink Analysis:

Using a high-level VSC8000/HS system, card grading companies can analyze the ink used on a card to estimate its age and determine its authenticity. Using micro-spectrometry it is possible to analyze the chemical composition of the ink and compare it to known samples.

Digital Imaging:

Card grading companies may use digital imaging techniques to capture high-resolution images of the card’s surface and features. These images can be used to compare the card to known authentic examples and identify any differences or irregularities. These images are often supplied to the card’s owner as part of the grading service.

High value trading cards are examined
Card graders may capture high-res images as part of their service
using a VSC to examine trading cards

Related Webinar: Document Examination: Authentication and Grading of Stamps, Cards and Collectables
In this webinar we explore how experts and collectors of stamps, trading cards, signatures and memorabilia are using VSC’s to validate and authenticate their high-value collectibles.

Watch On-Demand Now

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]]> https://fosterfreeman.com/card-grading-technology/feed/ 0 Chemical reagents – the missing link in fingermark validation? https://fosterfreeman.com/chemical-reagents-the-missing-link-in-fingermark-validation/ https://fosterfreeman.com/chemical-reagents-the-missing-link-in-fingermark-validation/#respond Tue, 21 Mar 2023 08:51:39 +0000 https://fosterfreeman.com/fosterfreeman-install-vsc8000-hs-in-papa-new-guinea-laboratory-copy/ The work of forensic experts has significant implications on the lives of individuals and societies as a whole. As such, the results that examiners provide must be reliable and trustworthy: this is where validation comes in.

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Chemical reagents – the missing link in fingermark validation?

Forensic science and fingermark identification is a high-stakes business. Investigating criminal cases the world over, the work of forensic experts has significant implications on the lives of individuals and societies as a whole. As such, the results that examiners provide must be reliable and trustworthy. And this is where validation comes in.

Within forensics, validation is the process of confirming that a tool, technique, or procedure works as intended throughout the examination and presentation of evidence.

In the world of fingerprints, there are two areas of practice that we routinely seek to validate. Firstly, the performance of our tools and instruments, and secondly, human-based methods and techniques.

Whilst instrument validation is concerned with determining how well a tool or technology performs, human-based validation focuses on staff competence and training.

However, there remains one area of fingerprints forensics that remains unvalidated. The chemical reagents that we use daily to develop marks.

Related Webinar:
This webinar features a new and innovative solution that foster+freeman has developed to fill in this missing link in the fingerprint validation process.

Watch On-Demand Now

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]]> https://fosterfreeman.com/chemical-reagents-the-missing-link-in-fingermark-validation/feed/ 0 Introducing MVC® FFLEX M: Fingermark Fuming, Updated https://fosterfreeman.com/introducing-mvc-fflex-m-fingermark-fuming-updated/ https://fosterfreeman.com/introducing-mvc-fflex-m-fingermark-fuming-updated/#respond Fri, 05 Aug 2022 07:11:18 +0000 https://fosterfreeman.com/discover-a-2-part-solution-for-the-search-detection-and-imaging-of-evidence-at-the-crime-scene-and-in-the-laboratory-copy/ For more than 35-years, MVC® fuming cabinets have set the benchmark for performance and reliability as the dependable workhorses of forensic laboratories worldwide. Updated with a radical new design, the MVC®FFLEX M builds on that tried and trusted technology offering innovative new user-focused features to optimise results.

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Introducing MVC® FFLEX M:

Fingermark Fuming, Updated

For more than 35-years, MVC® fuming cabinets have set the benchmark for performance and reliability as the dependable workhorses of forensic laboratories worldwide.

Updated with a radical new design, the MVC®FFLEX M builds on that tried and trusted technology offering innovative new user-focused features to optimise results, increase laboratory efficiency, and provide complete end-to-end control of the fingermark development process.

Learn More
mvc fflex standalone
mvc fflex standalone

The Next Industry Standard in Fingermark Fuming

MVC® FFLEX M Launch Webinar

The MVC® FFLEX M was officially launched as part of our Forensic Webinar Series. Don’t worry, our Webinar Archive is available on-demand, so you can catch up at a time that suits you.

View On-Demand Now

mvc fflex preview
mvc fflex preview

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]]> https://fosterfreeman.com/introducing-mvc-fflex-m-fingermark-fuming-updated/feed/ 0 DISCOVER®, a 2-part solution for the search, detection, and imaging of evidence at the crime scene and in the laboratory https://fosterfreeman.com/discover-a-2-part-solution-for-the-search-detection-and-imaging-of-evidence-at-the-crime-scene-and-in-the-laboratory/ https://fosterfreeman.com/discover-a-2-part-solution-for-the-search-detection-and-imaging-of-evidence-at-the-crime-scene-and-in-the-laboratory/#respond Tue, 02 Aug 2022 10:05:12 +0000 https://fosterfreeman.a2hosted.com/meet-aari-the-unique-new-fingerprint-imaging-system-that-uses-artificial-intelligence-to-detect-ridge-detail-and-assist-forensic-examiners-copy/ A laboratory docking system for the handheld Crime-lite AUTO forensic search and imaging tool, DISCOVER brings the functionality, ease of use, and high quality of results produced by the ‘AUTO’ into the fingerprint laboratory.

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DISCOVER®,

a 2-part solution for the search, detection, and imaging of evidence at the crime scene and in the laboratory.

For crime lab directors and forensic science professionals seeking to increase the quality and quantity of evidence being detected at the crime scene and in the laboratory, DISCOVER is a uniquely versatile workstation that meets the needs of CSI and lab professionals at every stage of the forensic evidence workflow.

A laboratory docking system for the handheld Crime-lite AUTO forensic search and imaging tool, DISCOVER brings the functionality, ease of use, and high quality of results produced by the ‘AUTO’ into the fingerprint laboratory.

Learn More
DISCOVER fingermark imaging
DISCOVER fingermark imaging

A versatile and cost-effective forensic imaging solution like no other

  • Crime-lite AUTO

Un-docked…
the compact Crime-lite AUTO is a handheld search and imaging tool providing 55x wavebands of illumination for the detection of evidence that includes fingermarks; body fluids (blood, semen, sweat etc.); narcotics; accelerants and gunshot residues, etc.

Learn more about the Crime-lite AUTO
  • discover w monitor cropped 1

Docked…
the Crime-lite AUTO provides the illumination and capture system at the heart of the DISCOVER fingermark imaging workstation. Built to meet the demands of fingerprint photography experts, a selection of slot-in imaging and illumination modules further benefit the examiner by providing application-specific tools for the visualisation of fingermarks on difficult and hard-to-image surfaces including bullet casings; smartphone screens; mirrors and other reflective surfaces, etc.

  • examine evidence

At the crime scene…
the Crime-lite AUTO provides investigators with the tools and the confidence required to search for, detect, and capture high quality images of evidence in-situ.

  • discover in use in lab

In the forensic laboratory…
DISCOVER combines the entire feature-set of the Crime-lite AUTO with advanced functionality (including evidence-specific modules) to capture and enhance the best possible images of fingerprints on a wide variety of surfaces.

DISCOVER Launch Webinar

DISCOVER, for the Crime-lite AUTO, was officially launched to a select group of forensic examiners as part of the company’s Forensic Webinar Series.

View On-Demand Now

discover preview
discover preview

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]]> https://fosterfreeman.com/discover-a-2-part-solution-for-the-search-detection-and-imaging-of-evidence-at-the-crime-scene-and-in-the-laboratory/feed/ 0 Meet AARI®, the unique new fingerprint imaging system that uses Artificial Intelligence to detect ridge detail and assist forensic examiners. https://fosterfreeman.com/meet-aari-the-unique-new-fingerprint-imaging-system-that-uses-artificial-intelligence-to-detect-ridge-detail-and-assist-forensic-examiners/ https://fosterfreeman.com/meet-aari-the-unique-new-fingerprint-imaging-system-that-uses-artificial-intelligence-to-detect-ridge-detail-and-assist-forensic-examiners/#respond Tue, 02 Aug 2022 09:33:00 +0000 https://fosterfreeman.a2hosted.com/longwave-reflected-uv-for-the-enhancement-of-cyanoacrylate-fumed-fingerprints-copy/ The AARI (Amino Acid Rapid Imager) combines fully-integrated illumination and imaging technology that streamlines the fingerprint visualisation, imaging and mark-up process, completing in under 2-minutes tasks that may previously have taken hours.

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Meet AARI®,

the unique new fingerprint imaging system that uses Artificial Intelligence to detect ridge detail and assist forensic examiners.

aari ai assist wide version
Could AI-Assisted Ridge Detection be the next big thing in fingerprint examination?

Chemical reagents including ninhydrin, 1,8-diazafluoren-9-one (DFO) and 1,2-indandione are in widespread operational use in forensic labs across the globe.  Many fingerprint experts will use at least one of these processes on a daily basis when searching for and revealing fingerprints on items of semi-porous evidence such as paper or card. The method is sound, and the results are consistent, the only problem being the huge amount of time that is spent post-treatment individually examining each item of evidence, diligently marking up and photographing any resulting prints.

However, all of that could be about to change thanks to the development of an exciting new fingerprint technology known as AARI. Visualise, photograph, mark-up and export fingerprints ready for AFIS identification in under 2-minutes

Visualise, photograph, mark-up and export fingerprints ready for AFIS identification in under 2-minutes

ai ridge detail 1
AI detected ridge detail with areas of interest identified using a heatmap
ai ridge detail confirmed
Fingerprint ridge detail detected by AI Assist and confirmed by the human examiner

The AARI (Amino Acid Rapid Imager) combines fully-integrated illumination and imaging technology that streamlines the fingerprint visualisation, imaging and mark-up process, completing in under 2-minutes tasks that may previously have taken hours.

Perhaps more interestingly, the AARI device also includes a unique AI-Assist software feature that is set to revolutionise how forensic experts search for areas of identifiable ridge detail.

Developed using Machine Learning technology, AI Assist aids the examiner by searching captured images (up to US Letter size) and quickly locating areas of fingerprint ridge detail. The process requires only one click of a mouse by the operator and takes just a few seconds to complete.

Having scanned a document or image, AI Assist identifies areas of ridge detail by either outlining prints with boxes or using a heatmap. The human examiner may then select areas of interest and manually confirm the presence of fingerprints.

Never tiring, always performing, AARI AI Assist has been trained over hundreds of hours, using thousands of fingermark images, and has been designed to provide unerring assistance to the human examiner.

AI Assist is…

… a unique software tool that assists the examiner in the detection of fingermark ridge detail. The software can significantly speed up the process of fingerprint detection and mark-up.

AI Assist is not…

… intended to replace the role of a skilled fingermark examiner. All AI ASSIST detected marks should be manually verified. The software cannot identify suspects via their fingerprints.

Whilst never a replacement for a human examiner, AI Assist can dramatically speed up the process of detecting prints and is capable of saving many man-hours of labour in the mark-up and report creation.

AARI - AMINO ACID RAPID IMAGER -Streamlined visualisation and mark-up of fingermarks
Dramatically increase the speed and accuracy of fingerprint visualisation on items of porous/semi-porous evidence using a fully-integrated detection and imaging system with intelligent AI Assist Ridge Detection software. Using AARI, tasks that previously took many hours of manual processing can now be achieved in minutes.

Integrated Technology for a Streamlined Workflow

A fully integrated illumination and imaging system, AARI includes all the components required to visualise and capture fingerprints on semi-porous items of evidence. Operated via the integral touch panel display or an attached PC, AARI is easy to set up and operate with minimal end-user training required.

Pre-set examinations reduce previously labour intensive and time-consuming processes to a simple click of a mouse. Items of evidence up to A4 or US Letter size can be captured, examined, marked up and exported as AFIS-ready images or as a PDF report in under 2-minutes.

Seeing is Believing

The foster+freeman AARI system was officially launched to a select group of forensic examiners as part of our Forensic Webinar Series, with further webinars on artificial intelligence and standardisation. These are now available to view on-demand:

View All AARI Webinars

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