Telematics is the digital connection of the car to the outside world, via an integrated network connection or using a connection made by either a tethered or non-tethered device, such as a paired smartphone.

These devices store a vast amount of data such as recent destinations, call logs, contact lists, SMS messages, social media feeds and the navigation history of everywhere the vehicle has been. Many systems also link to vehicle functions and can record events such as the opening and closing of doors, gear selection, lights on/off and connection to Wi-Fi sources.

TRL have access to forensic tools to enable the retrieval of data obtained within vehicle infotainment and telematic devices. This is new technology that is key in crime and fraud investigations, enabling retrieval of personal and location data. TRL support UK Law Enforcement agencies in accessing and interpreting this data.

Data available from vehicles includes:

Vehicle/System Information

• Serial Number
• Part Number
• Original VIN Number
• Build Number

Installed Application Data

• Weather
• Traffic
• Facebook
• Twitter

Connected Devices

• Phones
• Media Players
• USB Drives
• SD Cards
• Wireless Access Points

Navigation Data

• Tracklogs and Trackpoints
• Saved Locations
• Previous Destinations
• Active and Inactive Routes

Device Information

• Device IDs
• Calls
• Contacts
• SMS
• Audio
• Video
• Images
• Access Point Information

Events

• Doors Opening/Closing
• Lights On/Off
• Bluetooth Connections
• Wi-Fi Connections
• USB Connections
• System Reboots
• GPS Time Syncs
• Odometer Readings
• Gear Indications