Parsippany NJ 07054

International Society of Forensic Computer Examiners

Global Leaders in Digital Forensics Certification

Handling of Appeals Procedure for ISFCE Proficiency Testing Scheme

1. Purpose

This document outlines the procedure for receiving, investigating, and resolving appeals related to the ISFCE Proficiency Testing (PT) Scheme for Digital Evidence Handling. The aim is to ensure appeals are managed fairly, impartially, and eectively, with clear documentation of all actions taken.

2. Scope

This procedure applies to all appeals related to decisions made during ISFCE’s PT activities, including participant assessments and any related administrative decisions. It ensures that appeals are tracked, investigated, and resolved in a timely and non-discriminatory manner.

3. Responsibilities
  • CEO: Responsible for managing the appeal process, including investigating appeals and making recommendations for resolution. Responsible for reviewing and approving all decisions regarding the resolution of appeals.
  • Impartial Reviewer: Assigned when necessary to ensure impartiality in cases where the appeal involves personnel directly involved in the original decision.

4. Process for Receiving Appeals
4.1 Submitting an Appeal

  • Appeals must be submitted in writing (email, letter, or web form) within 10 business days of the disputed decision. The submission should include:
    • A detailed description of the decision being appealed.
    • Supporting documentation or evidence.
    • Contact details for follow-up.
  • Public Aailability: ISFCE ensures that a publicly available descrition of the appeals handling process is provided on the ISFCE website or included in communications with participants.

4.2 Acknowledgment of Receipt

  • Upon receiving an appeal, ISFCE acknowledges the appeal in writing within 5 business days, providing:
    • Confirmation that the appeal is being reviewed.
    • A reference number for tracking the appeal.
    • Information on the next steps in the appeals process.

5. Investigating and Validating Appeals Complaints

5.1. Initial Review

The Appeals Officer will conduct an initial review to confirm that the appeal is valid and falls within the scope of ISFCE PT activities

5.2. Gathering Information

ISFCE is responsible for gathering all necessary information to determine whether the appeal is valid. This includes:

  • Reviewing the original decision and related documentation.
  • Interviewing relevant personnel.
  • Assessing the evidence provided by the appellant.

5.3. Tracking and Recording Appeals

All appeals are tracked from receipt to resolution. ISFCE maintains a detailed record of:

  • The appeal submission.
  • Actions taken during the investigation.
  • Progress reports and communication with the appellant.
  • The final resolution and any corrective actions.

6. Actions Taken to Resolve Appeals

6.1. Decision and Actions

Once the appeal has been fully investigated, ISFCE will determine:

  • Whether the original decision should be upheld or overturned.
  • What actions are required to resolve the appeal.
  • Any corrective actions necessary to prevent recurrence of the issue.

6.2. Non-Discriminatory Resolution

Impartiality: Appeals are handled without discrimination. Decisions are made by individuals who were not involved in the original decision being appealed.

If necessary, an Impartial Reviewer is assigned to maintain fairness and impartiality.

6.3. Notification of Outcome

ISFCE provides the appellant with the final outcome of the appeal in writing. This includes:

  • A detailed explanation of the decision.
  • Actions taken to resolve the appeal.
  • If applicable, progress reports during the investigation.

6.4. Formal Notice of Conclusion

ISFCE will give formal notice of the conclusion of the appeal to the appellant, clearly outlining:

  • The final decision.
  • Any actions taken or corrections made.
  • Any further steps the appellant may take, if applicable.

7. Ensuring Impartiality

7.1. Impartiality in Decision-Making

Appeals are reviewed and resolved by personnel who were not involved in the original decision that is being appealed. If resources are limited, ISFCE ensures that impartiality is maintained throughout the process.

7.2. Non-Discriminatory Process

ISFCE ensures that no discriminatory actions are taken against the appellant during the investigation or resolution of the appeal.

8. Record Retention

ISFCE retains all records related to appeals, including:

  • Submission details.
  • Investigation notes.
  • Decisions and actions taken.
  • All communications with the appellant.

These records are retained for a minimum of 5 years in compliance with ISO/IEC 17043

9. Review and Approval

This procedure is reviewed annually by the Appeals Officer/CEO to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with ISO/IEC 17043 standards.