Course Introduction

FSP 102: Fingerprint Examination and Analysis

  • Course Outline
  • Curriculum
  • FAQ
  • Case Studies
  • Reviews

April Batch 2024

Last Date to Register : 25th April 2024

The Fingerprint Examination & Analysis Online Course offered by SIFS India lets you explore the art and science of fingerprint examination, one of the most powerful forensic investigation techniques to date.

You will learn to identify latent prints, ridge patterns, and minutiae points and will gain skills to decipher the silent witnesses left at crime scenes.

The entire curriculum is taught by experienced professionals and delivered via pre-recorded sessions, allowing you to study at your own pace without any constraints.

This course comprises three levels: Level 1 (certificate), Level 2 (diploma), and Level 3 (Post Graduate Diploma), and the entire curriculum is divided among these levels.

A few of the topics you will learn about are: fingerprint basics, including history and pattern types, different types of fingerprint classification systems, types of fingerprints, physical and chemical print development methods, poroscopy, types of forgeries, recording and examining fingerprints, the Automated Fingerprint Identification System, foot prints, shoe prints, gait patterns, lip prints, palm prints, ethical and legal considerations, report writing, and presenting your findings in court.

So get ready to start your journey of discovery and precision by enrolling in this course.

Course Benefits

Enrolling in this course will help you gain a deep understanding of fingerprint science and its applications. You will become skilled at identifying and classifying prints, thereby providing valuable support to law enforcement agencies, forensic labs, and private investigative firms in solving criminal cases.

Course Outcome

Upon successful completion of this course, you will become capable of analyzing, comparing, and evaluating all types of fingerprints. You will gain expertise to put your acquired knowledge to practical use and provide crucial support in criminal investigations and court proceedings. Also, armed with a strong foundation, you will have access to diverse opportunities in the ever-growing field of forensic fingerprint examination.

Course Highlights

- Pre-recorded sessions with practical insights about analysis tools

- Experienced faculty in the field of fingerprint analysis

- Industry-specific and comprehensive study material and reference books

- The latest techniques to identify, process, lift, preserve, and analyze prints

- Advanced digital fingerprint analysis techniques

- Networking opportunities with forensic experts and professionals

- Increased career prospects and knowledge in this specialized field

  • Level - I : Fingerprint Examination & Analysis

    MODULE 1 – INTRODUCTION TO FINGERPRINTS

    In this foundational module, you will explore the history and physiological development of fingerprint formation, the role of fingerprint bureaus, the principles of fingerprint examination, and the significance of fingerprints in personal identification. The module also covers the classification of pattern types and pattern areas, fingerprint searching techniques, and recording fingerprints using the traditional inked impression method. You will gain the knowledge and skills required to work with fingerprint evidence and contribute to the resolution of criminal cases.

    MODULE 2 – FINGERPRINT CLASSIFICATION

    In this module, you will be introduced to the history and significance of fingerprint identification, Sir Francis Galton's fingerprint classification system, and the study of ridge characteristics, including ridge counting and ridge tracing techniques. The module also covers the study of the Henry System of Classification to categorize fingerprints, along with Single Digit Classification where the process is narrowed down to classifying individual digits. And finally, you will gain insights about the extension of the Henry System and how it adapts to the modern fingerprint identification system.

    MODULE 3 – TYPES OF FINGERPRINTS

    The module explores different types of fingerprints, their historical importance, and fingerprint categorization, including chance or latent prints (invisible prints usually created by sweat), patent prints (visible prints usually created by ink, grease, dirt, or blood), and plastic prints (leave intended impressions on soft surfaces like wax, clay, or paint). You will also learn about the composition of sweat, which is a crucial component of fingerprints and plays a vital role in their formation.

    MODULE 4 – DEVELOPMENT OF LATENT FINGERPRINTS

    In this module, you will learn about the development and preservation of latent fingerprints, factors affecting their development, developing prints using powder methods (gray, black, aluminum flake, granular, magnetic, fluorescent, and others), and fuming methods (iodine fuming, cyanoacrylate or super glue, osmium tetroxide, hydrofluoric acid, mercuric iodide, ruthenium tetroxide, radioactive sulphur dioxide, and other fuming agents).

    After this, you will learn about chemical development methods like ninhydrin, DFO, 1,2-indanedione, 5-methylthioninhydrin, silver nitrate, physical developer, vacuum metal deposition (VMD), sudan black, small particle reagent (SPR), dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde (DMAC), crystal violet, and several other chemical methods.

    The module also explores the application of LASER and other radiations to develop prints, the metal deposition method for lifting latent prints from skin, and techniques to lift and preserve fingerprints.

    MODULE 5 – RECORDING AND COMPARISON OF FINGERPRINTS

    This module covers fingerprints and their various facets, including the history of fingerprint identification, techniques to record fingerprints from both living and deceased individuals, the challenges involved, and the difference between class characteristics and individual characteristics of fingerprints. You will also learn about methods used to compare fingerprints, techniques to identify matches and discrepancies, and advanced techniques like biometric recording and identification of fingerprints and how such technologies are revolutionizing the field of fingerprint analysis.

  • Level - II : Fingerprint Examination & Analysis

    MODULE 1 – INTRODUCTION TO FINGERPRINTS

    In this foundational module, you will explore the history and physiological development of fingerprint formation, the role of fingerprint bureaus, the principles of fingerprint examination, and the significance of fingerprints in personal identification. The module also covers the classification of pattern types and pattern areas, fingerprint searching techniques, and recording fingerprints using the traditional inked impression method. You will gain the knowledge and skills required to work with fingerprint evidence and contribute to the resolution of criminal cases.

    MODULE 2 – FINGERPRINT CLASSIFICATION

    In this module, you will be introduced to the history and significance of fingerprint identification, Sir Francis Galton's fingerprint classification system, and the study of ridge characteristics, including ridge counting and ridge tracing techniques. The module also covers the study of the Henry System of Classification to categorize fingerprints, along with Single Digit Classification where the process is narrowed down to classifying individual digits. And finally, you will gain insights about the extension of the Henry System and how it adapts to the modern fingerprint identification system.

    MODULE 3 – TYPES OF FINGERPRINTS

    The module explores different types of fingerprints, their historical importance, and fingerprint categorization, including chance or latent prints (invisible prints usually created by sweat), patent prints (visible prints usually created by ink, grease, dirt, or blood), and plastic prints (leave intended impressions on soft surfaces like wax, clay, or paint). You will also learn about the composition of sweat, which is a crucial component of fingerprints and plays a vital role in their formation.

    MODULE 4 – DEVELOPMENT OF LATENT FINGERPRINTS

    In this module, you will learn about the development and preservation of latent fingerprints, factors affecting their development, developing prints using powder methods (gray, black, aluminum flake, granular, magnetic, fluorescent, and others), and fuming methods (iodine fuming, cyanoacrylate or super glue, osmium tetroxide, hydrofluoric acid, mercuric iodide, ruthenium tetroxide, radioactive sulphur dioxide, and other fuming agents).

    After this, you will learn about chemical development methods like ninhydrin, DFO, 1,2-indanedione, 5-methylthioninhydrin, silver nitrate, physical developer, vacuum metal deposition (VMD), sudan black, small particle reagent (SPR), dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde (DMAC), crystal violet, and several other chemical methods.

    The module also explores the application of LASER and other radiations to develop prints, the metal deposition method for lifting latent prints from skin, and techniques to lift and preserve fingerprints.

    MODULE 5 – RECORDING AND COMPARISON OF FINGERPRINTS

    This module covers fingerprints and their various facets, including the history of fingerprint identification, techniques to record fingerprints from both living and deceased individuals, the challenges involved, and the difference between class characteristics and individual characteristics of fingerprints. You will also learn about methods used to compare fingerprints, techniques to identify matches and discrepancies, and advanced techniques like biometric recording and identification of fingerprints and how such technologies are revolutionizing the field of fingerprint analysis.

    MODULE 6 – IDENTIFICATION, EVALUATION AND COMPARISON OF FINGERPRINTS THROUGH AUTOMATED FINGERPRINT IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM (AFIS)

    This module covers the advanced Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) and its multifaceted functionalities. You will learn about its historical evolution, role in modern law enforcement and forensic science, and its functioning in quickly and accurately identifying individuals.

    The Automated Fingerprint Identification System's inner workings are explored, with an emphasis on the enrollment phase, where fingerprints are initially recorded, and the identification phase, where matches are sought and confirmed. Additionally, it covers the concepts of the Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS), Next Generation Identification, and the legal necessities associated with the use of AFIS to maintain individuals’ rights and privacy.

    MODULE 7 – LEGAL PERSPECTIVES OF FINGERPRINT

    In this module, you will learn about the legal aspects associated with fingerprint analysis and the legal framework that governs the collection, analysis, and presentation of fingerprints as evidence in various contexts. The module also explores the role of fingerprint experts in court, their responsibilities, their presentation as expert testimony, and the role they play during legal proceedings. Finally, the module concludes with fingerprint report writing skills you need to know, highlighting the importance of accurate and clear documentation in the forensic analysis process and how to effectively communicate your findings in court.

  • Level - III : Fingerprint Examination & Analysis

    MODULE 1 – INTRODUCTION TO FINGERPRINTS

    In this foundational module, you will explore the history and physiological development of fingerprint formation, the role of fingerprint bureaus, the principles of fingerprint examination, and the significance of fingerprints in personal identification. The module also covers the classification of pattern types and pattern areas, fingerprint searching techniques, and recording fingerprints using the traditional inked impression method. You will gain the knowledge and skills required to work with fingerprint evidence and contribute to the resolution of criminal cases.

    MODULE 2 – FINGERPRINT CLASSIFICATION

    In this module, you will be introduced to the history and significance of fingerprint identification, Sir Francis Galton's fingerprint classification system, and the study of ridge characteristics, including ridge counting and ridge tracing techniques. The module also covers the study of the Henry System of Classification to categorize fingerprints, along with Single Digit Classification where the process is narrowed down to classifying individual digits. And finally, you will gain insights about the extension of the Henry System and how it adapts to the modern fingerprint identification system.

    MODULE 3 – TYPES OF FINGERPRINTS

    The module explores different types of fingerprints, their historical importance, and fingerprint categorization, including chance or latent prints (invisible prints usually created by sweat), patent prints (visible prints usually created by ink, grease, dirt, or blood), and plastic prints (leave intended impressions on soft surfaces like wax, clay, or paint). You will also learn about the composition of sweat, which is a crucial component of fingerprints and plays a vital role in their formation.

    MODULE 4 – DEVELOPMENT OF LATENT FINGERPRINTS

    In this module, you will learn about the development and preservation of latent fingerprints, factors affecting their development, developing prints using powder methods (gray, black, aluminum flake, granular, magnetic, fluorescent, and others), and fuming methods (iodine fuming, cyanoacrylate or super glue, osmium tetroxide, hydrofluoric acid, mercuric iodide, ruthenium tetroxide, radioactive sulphur dioxide, and other fuming agents).

    After this, you will learn about chemical development methods like ninhydrin, DFO, 1,2-indanedione, 5-methylthioninhydrin, silver nitrate, physical developer, vacuum metal deposition (VMD), sudan black, small particle reagent (SPR), dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde (DMAC), crystal violet, and several other chemical methods.

    The module also explores the application of LASER and other radiations to develop prints, the metal deposition method for lifting latent prints from skin, and techniques to lift and preserve fingerprints.

    MODULE 5 – RECORDING AND COMPARISON OF FINGERPRINTS

    This module covers fingerprints and their various facets, including the history of fingerprint identification, techniques to record fingerprints from both living and deceased individuals, the challenges involved, and the difference between class characteristics and individual characteristics of fingerprints. You will also learn about methods used to compare fingerprints, techniques to identify matches and discrepancies, and advanced techniques like biometric recording and identification of fingerprints and how such technologies are revolutionizing the field of fingerprint analysis.

    MODULE 6 – POROSCOPY AND ISSUES IN FINGERPRINT SCIENCE

    In this module, you will learn the significance of poroscopy and its evolution over the years, their use in establishing biological relationships, the identification of twin fingerprints, and analyzing similarities and differences in identical and fraternal twins' fingerprints. The module then explores the concept of fingerprint forgery, the challenges and techniques involved while imitating the original prints, and finally, you will gain insights about problems faced while recording and examining fingerprints, thereby providing a deep understanding of this field.

    MODULE 7 – IDENTIFICATION, EVALUATION AND COMPARISON OF FINGERPRINTS THROUGH AUTOMATED FINGERPRINT IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM (AFIS)

    This module covers the advanced Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) and its multifaceted functionalities. You will learn about its historical evolution, role in modern law enforcement and forensic science, and its functioning in quickly and accurately identifying individuals.

    The Automated Fingerprint Identification System's inner workings are explored, with an emphasis on the enrollment phase, where fingerprints are initially recorded, and the identification phase, where matches are sought and confirmed. Additionally, it covers the concepts of the Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS), Next Generation Identification, and the legal necessities associated with the use of AFIS to maintain individuals’ rights and privacy.

    MODULE 8 – OTHER IMPRESSIONS

    In this module, you will learn about prints other than fingerprints, like footprints and shoe prints, including their historical significance, gait pattern analysis, casting and lifting of footprint and shoe print impressions, techniques to identify, preserve, and evaluate these impressions; lip prints, including their history, classification, methods of recording lip prints, and techniques to examine their unique features; and finally, palm prints, including their historical significance and division of palm prints and their forensic significance.

    MODULE 9 – LEGAL PERSPECTIVES OF FINGERPRINT

    In this module, you will learn about the legal aspects associated with fingerprint analysis and the legal framework that governs the collection, analysis, and presentation of fingerprints as evidence in various contexts. The module also explores the role of fingerprint experts in court, their responsibilities, their presentation as expert testimony, and the role they play during legal proceedings. Finally, the module concludes with fingerprint report writing skills you need to know, highlighting the importance of accurate and clear documentation in the forensic analysis process and how to effectively communicate your findings in court.

  • What steps should I follow to enroll in this online course?

    To enroll, click on the “Register for Course” option available on the right side of the screen, followed by the provided instructions and payment procedure.

  • Can I pay directly to the bank account of SIFS India?

    Yes, you have the option to make a direct payment to the bank account of SIFS India;, all you have to do is write an email at education@sifs.in requesting the bank details. 

  • Which documents I have to upload at the time of enrollment?

    Academic Qualification Documents, Professional Qualification Certificates, and National ID Proof or Passport Copy are required at the time of enrollment.  

  • What if I am unable to upload my documents?

    Kindly send your necessary documents with proof of payment to admission@sifs.in.

  • How will I receive confirmation once I have completed the payment procedure?

    An Admission Confirmation email will be sent with your portal credentials once the proof of payment and application form with all the necessary documents are received at admission@sifs.in.

  • How do I login to the portal for my online course?

    To login, visit the portal at the given link: https://www.sifs.in/student and enter your login credentials, i.e., your username and password shared via email. 

  • What study material access will I have after logging into the portal?

    After logging into the portal, you will have access to reading material, reference eBooks, and e-research papers.

  • Will I receive any assignments during my course duration?

    Yes, all your assignments, projects, case studies and practice tests will be assigned to you through your portal as per the level you will be enrolled in.

  • What technical prerequisites are necessary for an online course?

    You can easily access our online course on mobile / tablet devices. We highly recommend that you use your desktop or laptop and a reliable internet connection for a better view.

  • Will there be any exams after completing the course?

    Yes, there will be an online exam after completing the course.

  • Will I receive any certificates after completing the online course?

    Yes, upon successful completion of the course, you will receive a certificate and marksheet, which can be a valuable addition to your resume and may enhance your career prospects in the field.

  • Where to contact in case of any queries or technical support?

    Write to us at admission@sifs.in, call: +91-1147074263, or WhatsApp: +91-7303913002.

Harry Jackson Case Study

Hary Jackson’s case was the first criminal trial in the United Kingdom when a suspect got convicted based on fingerprint evidence.

On June 27, 1902, during a robbery, a huge number of billiard balls were stolen from a house in Denmark Hill, South London. During a crime scene investigation, investigators discovered fingerprints on a recently painted windowsill.

This created suspicion that the robber might have entered the house premises through this window, and hence the Fingerprint Branch of Scotland Yard was contacted.

The crime scene was visited by Detective Sergeant Collins, who photographed the fingerprints, including a clear left thumbprint. 

After being convinced that the fingerprints collected do not belong to any family member or law enforcement official, he returned to Scotland Yard to find out the identity of the print’s owner. 

A painful task of comparing the questioned prints with the known prints of the criminals was carried out until a similar fingerprint was found. After a thorough comparison of the prints, it was declared that they were a match.

The fingerprint belonged to 41-year-old Harry Jackson, the laborer. Earlier, he was imprisoned for robbery. This also made the case against him strong. He was arrested and owned the stolen goods at that time. 

Edward Henry, the man behind the production of the Henry System of Fingerprint Classification and founder of the Fingerprint Bureau, was the Assistant Crime Commissioner. 

However, until then, forensic fingerprinting was a relatively new concept and had never been used as evidence in court. 

So prosecutor Richard Muir helped, and DS Collins acted as an expert witness who provided information about using fingerprinting as evidence. 

He also presented enlarged images of the thumbprint found at the crime scene and the suspect’s thumbprint, showcasing the similarities between the two. After much discussion, the prosecution successfully convinced the jury regarding the reliability of fingerprint evidence.

In September 1902, Harry Jackson was found guilty. He was sentenced in the Central Criminal Court to seven years of imprisonment.

Kealeboga Cosmos Mokwena

5

I would like to thanks SIFS INDIA for providing us a platform to learn new techniques in the field of fingerprint examination through online learning platforms. One should definitely join SIFS INDIA as they are really taking great initiatives in making people aware of what forensics is and helping us to get better in the different aspects of forensic science. 

Ikageng Changane

4

Learned a lot from this course, and I believe this was the best choice I had made.

Thanks a lot for this opportunity!!!

Yasmine Valentina v

4

Wonderful learning course.

Mohd. Zafar Shadab

4

It was very wonderful course learned from a very knowledgeable instructor who is very down to earth and I would like to opt for more courses to increase my knowledge.

Prajwal H. S.

5

It was a very good and informative course with Sir as an instructor and learnt a lot from him.

Joslyn Klaus Nester Frank

5

I am very happy to share that I bagged a higher salary as a forensic investigator after enrolling in Fingerprint Examination and Analysis. Kudos to Karun and SIFS team

New Delhi

 

Instructors

Ashi Yadav

Ashi Yadav

Scientific Officer
Dr. Ranjeet Singh

Dr. Ranjeet Singh

Managing Director
Karun Singla

Karun Singla

Forensic Instructor
Ruchika Dwivedi

Ruchika Dwivedi

Assitant Professor, JECRC

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