In this article, we’ll give you an actionable approach to building an ideal forensic document laboratory for your organization. This approach also works when you want to expand your existing capabilities, allowing you to see potential gaps and easily fill them.
Let’s get started.
What is a forensic document laboratory?
The term “laboratory” can be a bit misleading when discussing document forensics. Unlike a traditional lab filled with test tubes and beakers, a forensic document lab is more like an office. It usually includes a desk, a computer, a microscope, and possibly a video spectral comparator. There might also be a collection of sample documents.
However, the full set of equipment for a forensic document laboratory largely depends on its role within an organizational structure.
For example, a centralized expert laboratory, controlled by a particular government authority or central bank, usually has a dedicated document/banknote examination department. This specialized lab focuses solely on document forensics and doesn’t handle other types of examinations. As a rule, such laboratories, in addition to the devices mentioned above, often have advanced equipment, including:
Chromatographs;
High-end 3D digital microscopes;
Devices for electromagnetic and magneto-optical examinations;
A complex photo stand with various light sources;
and other specialized tools.
In contrast, there might not be a dedicated lab at regional or local levels. Instead, an expert might conduct document examinations as part of their broader duties.
💡 From Regula’s point of view, an “ideal” forensic document lab is one within a central organization, where a team focuses exclusively on document examination and is equipped with the best technical tools for the job. However, this is just a presumption rather than a fact, because the definition of “ideal” varies based on specific needs and use cases.
We at Regula quite often hear our customers asking something like, “Should we buy a microscope or a high-resolution scanner?” The fact is that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to what device should be at the top of your list. Each device serves specific, sometimes very narrow, tasks.
So here's how we at Regula would approach it:
Step 1: Get started with a magnifier
A magnifier is an essential tool on every expert's desk. It is used for initial inspection and verification of various documents and banknotes, as well as determining the printing method.
For example, I’d personally start with the Regula 1003M, which has 15x magnification. Then, to enhance the magnifier with additional light sources and functionality, I’d pair it with a compact model like the Regula 1030 or 1031. These tools will have you covered for a wide range of basic day-to-day tasks, which makes them indispensable for a forensic document lab.
While the Regula 1003 is a self-sufficient compact magnifier for basic tasks, the Regula 1031 offers 19 lighting modes for more thorough examination.
For more advanced capabilities, consider the Regula 4177, a small spectral luminescent magnifier that connects to a laptop. This innovative device, no bigger than a computer mouse, allows for advanced document examination in the range of 365-980 nm.
The Regula 4177 is operated via buttons located on the device’s body.
Step 2: Dig deeper with a microscope
Microscopes are a must-have in any forensic document laboratory. Unlike magnifiers, microscopes are typically a shared resource rather than a personal tool.
Regula offers three types of microscopes to cover various needs:
Regula 5003: A standard microscope that works with white light and optical magnification up to 420x, which is perfect for detailed inspections.
Regula 5001: A spectral luminescent microscope that offers advanced forensic document analysis capabilities, as well as capabilities for examination of handwriting, dactyloscopy, trace evidence, and ballistics.
Regula 5006: A portable spectrometer microscope that connects to your computer via USB and is ready to work wherever you are.
Ideally, equipping your lab with all three microscopes would be perfect. However, considering financial constraints, obtaining just one or two microscopes can still offer substantial capabilities.
If your laboratory has a video spectral comparator (more about it in a minute), then a stereo microscope like the Regula 5003 alone would suffice. It features excellent optics and magnification, image output to a computer, and integration with Regula Forensic Studio software. All of that makes it a versatile tool for various tasks.
Step 3: Take it to the next level with a video spectral comparator
A video spectral comparator is an advanced device for the most complex examinations. Many forensic experts consider it an indispensable component of their lab. A comparator includes advanced capabilities such as high-resolution optics, high optical magnification, a range of light sources, including narrow-band, filters, 3D capabilities, a spectrometer, a module for hyperspectral analysis, and more. It’s a comprehensive multitool that can cover diverse tasks, such as examining questioned documents, handwritten notes, and works of art.
The flagship model, Regula 4308, offers two optical systems that enable viewing both the front and reverse sides of an object without flipping it. It provides optical magnification up to 320x, featuring 30 types of light sources and over 20 light filters.
These are the most prominent features that facilitate in-depth object examination:
Narrowband light sources;
A high-resolution spectrometer for measuring and comparing color characteristics;
A module for hyperspectral imaging;
A module for 3D imaging.
These are the most prominent features that increase effectiveness and usability:
Two optical systems for examining both the front and reverse sides of the object without flipping it over;
A motorized oblique lighting system that makes it possible to adjust the light source's angle of incidence, facilitating detailed examination of a document's microrelief;
A movable optical system and removable side clips for examining objects of different thicknesses and widths;
A motorized XY translation stage for convenient adjusting an object’s position at high magnifications;
A module for reading RFID chips;
Integrated software for faster and easier examination and reporting.
Of course, power comes at a price, so making a decision to invest in a video spectral comparator depends on your financial resources and practical needs.
While a high-end model like the Regula 4308 offers extensive features and superior optics, it may be more than what some labs require or can afford. Plus, this powerful device has a rather steep learning curve if you want to use all its capabilities to the max. With this in mind, some labs might opt for simpler models.
For example, some of our clients preferred multiple Regula 4306 units instead of a single 4308. This approach can be more cost-effective for covering needs across multiple regions. The Regula 4306 provides essential capabilities without features like a spectrometer or a movable stage, which might not be necessary for every user.
So as you can see, there's no universal solution. Each laboratory has unique requirements based on their particular tasks, objects of examination, and experience. Evaluate your needs and resources to choose the best setup for your forensic document lab.
Compared to the flagship solution, the Regula 4306 is a more compact device
Sidestep #1: Apply for access to a database of document specimens or start building your own
Conclusions in document authentication are based on comparing questioned documents with known reference samples. That’s why central laboratories are typically responsible for creating and maintaining databases of both genuine specimens and counterfeit documents.
When it comes to a collection of document specimens, the good news is that you don’t need to create one from scratch. The Regula Information Reference System contains all the necessary information, including high-quality images and descriptions, to help experts determine document authenticity.
If necessary, you can also build your own database of samples, which you can update and expand as you see fit. For this purpose, you’ll need a device like the Regula 8880 and Document Builder software.
The same tools also help you create a high-quality counterfeit document database:
The central lab studies forgery techniques and captures high-quality images in various lighting conditions to form robust digital database entries. This information is then shared with regional units or even internationally; for example, that’s how it’s done between the EU countries. On the one hand, experts, regardless of their location, can better handle new types of forgeries. On the other hand, it helps them to identify fakes that are produced in the same place, enabling investigators to target the source.
The high-quality scanning capabilities of the Regula 8880 allow you to independently create an internal database of documents in high resolution.
Sidestep #2: Get more flexibility with portable tools
When tasks need to be performed outside the lab, such as during field operations or raids, portable devices are essential. For such scenarios, consider the following portable solutions:
- Regula 5006. We’ve mentioned this portable microscope earlier in this post. The device comes in handy in mobile forensic laboratories.
- Regula 4177, a spectral magnifier also mentioned above. The device is compact and easy to carry, making it perfect for quick checks and initial verification. For more detailed field examinations, there’s Regula 4178, an advanced companion device for the Regula 4177. It’s equipped with better optics and additional light sources.
Regula 5006 is a go-to device for forensic document labs on wheels
Document forensics tech stack examples
Every forensic document laboratory has a unique focus, driven by the types of documents it handles and the tasks it prioritizes. This diversity in focus also means diversity in the tech stack.
A Ministry of Justice laboratory, for example, primarily deals with civil documents such as contracts, agreements, and wills. Their labs have a main focus on verifying the authenticity and integrity of legal documents.
In contrast, border control laboratories concentrate on verifying the authenticity of travel documents like passports and ID cards.
Internal Affairs labs have perhaps the most diverse range of tasks, handling everything from obliterated VINs to counterfeit currency and IDs. Naturally, their tech stack is often the most extensive, in order to ensure effective examination of a wide variety of items in various scenarios, including field inspections and covert operations.
Below are three real-world use cases from our experience that demonstrate how the approach to equipping a lab varies according to its specific objectives.
Use case #1: Document forensics for a newly founded judicial laboratory
The Office of the Attorney General in Colombia needed a new forensic lab to effectively fight counterfeiting and illegal modification. To build this lab, they looked for top-notch, multi-purpose forensic equipment that offered the best value for the money, as required by public procurement rules. The equipment had to handle in-depth forensic examinations of documents, banknotes, and other items.
Here’s what their project included:
Dual-Video Spectral Comparator Regula 4308S
Information Reference System
Specialized training
You can find the details of the project in this case study: The Colombian State-Level Forensic Lab Buys Regula 4308S
Use case #2: Empowering the newly launched laboratory of the Kenya Institute of Migration Studies
The Kenya Institute of Migration Studies in Nairobi needed to establish a state-of-the-art forensic lab to support the Immigration Service at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The project aimed to provide comprehensive tools and training to enhance the capabilities of immigration officers in detecting counterfeit and forged identity documents.
The project’s scope included:
Video Spectral Comparator Regula 4307
Microscope Regula 5001MK
Document Reader Regula 7024M
- Specialized training
Use case #3: Equipping a police laboratory in Europe
A European police laboratory needed advanced tools to enhance their forensic capabilities. They sought equipment that would provide comprehensive forensic analysis investigations. Given the specifics of their tasks, they needed not only a massive all-in-one comparator, but also specialized portable devices to examine objects with magnetic properties, such as banknotes.
Here’s what their project included:
Video Spectral Comparator Regula 4306
Magneto-Optical Visualizer Regula 4197
Information Reference System
Solid principles, evolving tools
The core principles of document forensics have remained the same over the years. Advances such as built-in spectrometers, hyper-spectral analysis, improved optical systems, and adjustable light sources make the tools easier to use and more efficient rather than revolutionizing the methods.
Because of these incremental improvements, the products offered by different manufacturers tend to be quite similar. At Regula, however, we offer a broad range of products with top-notch technical capabilities designed to meet diverse needs. We understand the unique tasks you face, and we can help you find the right tools for your specific requirements.
If you are planning to equip a forensic document laboratory and have specific needs, or if you have already faced issues equipping your lab, we encourage you to get in touch with us. The Regula team has helped hundreds of organizations globally, and is ready to provide personalized assistance in choosing the best solutions for your unique tasks.
