HKU School of Computing and Data Science (CDS) worked with The International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), IDFC Organizing Committee and Hong Kong Police Force to host the 10th INTERPOL Digital Forensics Expert Group (DFEG) Meeting and 2nd International Digital Forensics Challenge (IDFC) 2025 on 14-17 July 2025.

This four-day events in the field of digital forensics attracted law enforcement officers, scholars, experts, and representatives from international organisations, academic institutions, and enterprises across various countries and regions. Together, all participating parties collaborated to advance the development of global digital forensics expertise, fostering innovation and knowledge sharing in the field.

This year’s meeting, held in Hong Kong for the first time, brought together over a hundred leading experts in digital forensics from more than 40 countries and regions. They engaged in in-depth discussions on the latest technological advancements, forensic techniques, and the application of artificial intelligence, collectively driving the development of digital forensics expertise on a global scale.

CDS Director Professor Yi MA stated that “Artificial Intelligence, synthetic media, and emerging technologies present both unprecedented opportunities and complex challenges for law enforcement and digital forensics professionals. CDS is committed to bridging the gap between academic research and real-world applications, working together with the experts to harness the power of technology for the greater good and to ensure a safer digital future for all.”

Following the successful conclusion of the DFEG Meeting, the 2nd International Digital Forensics Challenge (IDFC) was held to extend the outcomes of the discussions and bridge the gap between theory and practice. This practical, scenario-based competition aimed to strengthen professional collaboration and elevate global digital forensics capabilities.

This year’s challenge attracted 22 teams from 15 regions worldwide. The Cyber Security and Technology Crime Bureau (CSTCB) from Hong Kong Police Force designed the crime scenario and set the competition’s tasks, which simulated a cyberattack on an investment company’s system. After intense competition, Hong Kong Customs emerged as the champion.

By establishing an international platform for exchange, CDS contributed to making Hong Kong lead its way in driving innovation in digital forensics and fostering communication among law enforcement agencies worldwide.