Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What types of ID do I need to bring the day of the exam?
You will need to provide two pieces of ID, one being a picture ID. This information is also in the CSFA Certification Exam Application and Agreement.

Acceptable forms of ID: U.S. Passport; Driver's license or ID card issued by a state, provided It contains a photograph; ID card issued by federal, state, or local Government agencies or entities provided it contains a photograph; School ID card with photograph; Voters registration card; U.S. Military card or draft record; Military dependent's ID card; U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Card; Native American tribal document; U.S. social security card; Original or certified copy of a birth certificate issued by a state, county, municipal authority or outlying possession of the United States bearing an official seal; School record or report card; Certification of Birth Abroad issued by the Department of State.

Q: Will I be able to talk to other candidates during the exam?
While in the exam room no, unless with a proctor. Candidates are encouraged to talk to one another during breaks, lunch, and before/after the daily sessions. In the real world, a forensic analyst draws upon the expertise and knowledge of other professionals. Another candidate is not allowed to sit at or access your forensic workstation. Each candidate will have a different scenario.

Q: Will I have Internet access during the exam?
Yes. Internet access will be provided via a group of computers setup expressly for this purpose.

Q: Doesn't allowing Internet access encourage cheating?
We do not believe so. Exam scenarios are updated on a regular basis, and each candidate will have a different scenario. Uploading or otherwise sending the forensic image files will be grounds for termination of the candidate's exam and expulsion from the testing center. Candidates are allowed to communicate information and questions regarding their specific scenario to their associates, as they normally would when conducting forensic analysis.

Q: Do I have to stay for the entire three days?
No. Turning in your analysis report will be the end of your test.

Q: Will all testing candidates be working on the same scenario?
No. There are multiple scenarios.

Q: My forensic software has certain hardware and resource requirements. How do I know it will work on the forensic workstation provided?
Contact us with your requirements. We will make sure that you have the proper configuration for you to use.

Q: What if my background check comes back with derogatory information that is not mine?
Since the background check is based on your fingerprints, this is not likely. If there is a dispute however, it is up to you to have the matter cleared up. CSI will not get involved in such a dispute.

Q: How does the CSFA certification compare to the other digital forensic certifications available?
The CSFA is an advanced certification, and does not take the place of the other certifications currently available. We feel (as do those having taken the exam) that the CSFA is a thorough, comprehensive and accurate test of a digital forensic analyst's capabilities and knowledge.

Q: What locations is the exam administered at?
Primarily in Washington State at this point, but we will travel and give the exam at other locations. If you are interested in hosting the CSFA exam, contact us.

Q: What if my FBI background request comes back indicating that my prints are unreadable or indiscernible?
If a criminal background report comes back from the FBI indicating that the prints are not readable, you should have a second set of prints done at the nearest State Police Post and resubmitted to the FBI for processing. 

Q: I have a copy of an FBI background check that was done at the request of my employer. Can I use this? 
We cannot accept a copy of a report that has been done for any other entity or organization. CSFA exam candidates must make the request and then voluntarily submit the information to us. 

Q: Can I submit a photocopy of my FBI report?
The original report(s) and fingerprint cards must be attached to your CSFA exam agreement. Photocopies of the fingerprint card and/or the written report from the FBI are not acceptable.

Q: Do I have to stay each day until 7:00 PM? This is too long of a day for me.
You do not have to stay each day until 7:00 PM. Understand however that once you leave for the day you cannot return to the testing center again that same day.

Q: Are cell phones allowed during the test?
Yes. They should be put on the vibrate setting.

Q: What if I have an emergency and I need to leave the exam center?
As long as you can provide documentation of the emergency, you will be allowed to reschedule your test. Understand that these situations will be taken into consideration on a case-by-case basis, and that the final decision is up to CyberSecurity Institute.

Q: What if a situation arises that is not covered in the exam rules?
Personnel will be present to deal with these situations. CyberSecurity Institute will make the final decision as to how the situations will be dealt with.


 

Next Exam


NEXT EXAM:

DEC 17 - 19, 2023

EDMONDS COLLEGE

LINKEDIN GROUP