Mission Darkness™ BlockBox Lab XL

The Mission Darkness™ BlockBox Lab XL offers the ultimate radio frequency (RF) shielding and hands-on accessibility for electronic device forensics investigations. The heavy-duty forensic analysis enclosure is designed specifically for investigating devices such as cell phones, tablets, laptops, and similar size electronics while remaining shielded from RF signals. The extra large interior dimensions make it easy for operators to comfortably analyze devices, as well as transfer devices in and out of faraday bags inside of the shielded chamber.

It is constructed with a durable aluminum frame with RF absorbent foam lining the inside walls, conductive gloves for both hands to operate and interrogate devices inside (including touch screens), patented Gen 2 RF-FilterVu transparent viewing window, two LED arrays, power strip with four universal power ports and four USB ports, and a dual-sided shielded filter with RJ45 ethernet and two USB ports for extracting data at high speeds. The RJ45 port lets an operator connect devices inside the faraday chamber to a local network internally, as well as connect to a charging source, computer, or data extraction tool externally. The combined features allows forensic investigators to thoroughly analyze data on devices while preventing any signal from reaching or leaving the device. The ability to keep devices charged indefinitely prevents lockout mode and reduces the amount of time needed to break a passcode, enabling the maximum amount of data extraction and unlocking with tools like GrayKey, Cellebrite, XRY, BlackBag, Oxygen, etc.

The BlockBox Lab XL completely isolates devices inside and blocks WiFi (2.4 & 5GHz), Bluetooth, cell signals including 5G networks, GPS, RFID, and radio signals. It has been lab tested and certified to shielding effectiveness standards IEEE 299-2006. Although designed for lab use, the light weight of the BlockBox Lab XL and strong side handles allow it to be transported to different locations. The comprehensive accessory kit includes a variety of high-quality cables, crystal clear acrylic phone organizer and shelf, set of replacement gloves and foam seals (since these items can wear out over time due to frequent/improper use or storage), which can be easily installed on-site without having to send the entire unit out for repair. The kit also comes with a variety of Mission Darkness NeoLok Faraday Bags with a patented magnetic closure, making it safe to use with conductive gloves in forensics investigations.

Alternative uses for the BlockBox Lab XL relate to mobile device testing, since the product can be used to create an isolated and controlled environment. An additional RJ45 ethernet port can be installed if necessary (see details below). The BlockBox Lab XL can be purchased with a camera mount either internally or externally so that a camera can photograph or video evidence and device screens (select the preferred option from the drop-down menu). Read the blog post about the benefits of a faraday box with a mounted camera to learn more.

If a Device Arrives to the Lab Inside a Faraday Bag:

• • Place the closed faraday bag inside of the BlockBox Lab XL, along with any necessary extraction tools or cables, and close the lid. Open the bag using the conductive gloves and remove the device. Connect the device internally to the power outlet, extraction tool, etc. if desired.

If Using With Cellebrite or Related Extraction Tool:

• • Place the device inside of the powered BlockBox Lab XL and connect it to the USB filter internally using a compatible cable. Connect an extraction tool directly to the outer USB filter on the opposite side, then use as directed.

If Using with GrayKey:

• • Make sure the outer filter cables are connected. Place the GrayKey unit inside of the powered lab and connect it to the inner RJ45 ethernet port, as well as the power outlet. Connect the device to GrayKey and use the tool as directed.

*Note that particular instructions for use with digital forensics tools will depend on the specific tool itself and the scenario. Bulky forensics tools and cables can be placed underneath the crystal clear organizer shelf to optimize internal space. The crystal clear phone organizer can be placed on top of the shelf to further increase organization and screen visibility.