Industrial Visit to the National Digital Forensics Laboratory

On 22 April 2026, 18 students and two faculties from the Department of Computing and Information Sciences, University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS), Nizwa, visited the National Digital Forensics Laboratory in Muscat, operated by Oman National CERT under the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology in close collaboration with the Royal Oman Police. The visit was organized by Dr. G. Mary Amirtha Saygayee, with Dr. Narayansamy Rajendran and Mr. Mohammed Mohideen accompanying the students.

This laboratory was established in 2016, it serves key national entities, including law enforcement and judicial bodies, and is ISO/IEC 17025 certified, ensuring global recognition of its forensic reports. During the visit, students gained insights into specialized areas such as computer and mobile forensics, data recovery, and advanced domains including IoT, blockchain, and AI-driven investigations. The session highlighted best practices in evidence handling, including bit-by-bit imaging, cryptographic verification, and secure chain-of-custody management using digital systems. Students were also introduced to real-world case scenarios, demonstrating the laboratory’s critical role in cybercrime investigations.

The visit provided a valuable platform for experiential learning, enhancing students’ understanding of digital forensics and Oman’s efforts in strengthening cybersecurity and digital investigation capabilities.

Writeup by: Shivashankar Rathinavelan