Which mobile phone technology is most commonly seen in field investigations?

In field investigations, the most commonly seen mobile phone technology is the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM). This technology provides a wide-reaching and standardized framework for mobile communication, which is crucial during investigations that often require the retrieval of mobile data or communication logs.

GSM allows for effective tracking of calls, messages, and other forms of mobile data, which can be instrumental in establishing timelines, communication patterns, and contacts related to a case. Its widespread use across various regions ensures that investigators have access to a significant amount of necessary data from a variety of devices.

Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) operates as well, but it is not as universally adopted as GSM, especially in international contexts. Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) primarily enables mobile devices to access the internet but is not directly related to investigations involving mobile phone communications. Long-Term Evolution (LTE) is a more advanced mobile communication technology that offers high-speed data services; however, it is still based on the underlying principles established by GSM and CDMA and may not be the primary focus in many field investigations that rely on foundational data retrieval.

Thus, GSM's role in enabling comprehensive data access makes it a key technology in mobile phone investigations.