Cyber Sleuths

As a good rule of thumb viewing missing & unidentified websites - it is always best practice to check "source data."

For example in the case files listed on Doe Network -- you'll see a "source information" link near bottom of the file.

If you are submitting a possible match or potential tip, always be sure to do the click through to source data.

Often the primary files are in a constant state of change. The mirrored file on volunteer databases might not have caught up with the latest case revision of the official case file.

In general, it is not the best idea to create new case file mirror from the original. Checking original NamUs.gov / or law enforcement files as the primary sources are usually the best route. Few orgs are able to mirror and manage the mirrored case files well, and Doe Network has been among the best at keeping track. Many of the case found on Doe Network are original to the org as submitted by the actual case owner agencies.

Case file imports into NamUs from other databases like FBI NCIC are often vague in nature. Sometimes the NCIC & local law enforcement case files have complex data that must be vetted, sometimes added to the site in phases. For example dental records are reviewed by forensic odontologists on staff. Any other biometric data is sought out and uploaded.

When NamUs receives core data directly from a law enforcement source, it is (initially) assumed to be the latest information. Then, often NamUs receives additional details from other LE sources that provide an update not noted in initial import. So the case files in NamUs are in a constant state of revision. That is the process of a central repository, to bring all sources together in a universal file.

Some the local, county and state LE agencies are eliminating their own websites that feature case files in favor of using the National Database which is NamUs. This is partly a cost saving advantage as well as an effort to have a single official repository.

As NamUs mines this data and formats for the national database it have found an overwhelming amount of information that often takes a great deal of time to fully review and refine.

The well run non-profit and public operated groups like Doe Network and Peace 4 Missing remain a vital effort to help assure the data is located and reviewed.