Achieve a recognized Board Certification that demonstrates your mastery of essential skills, setting you apart as a trusted professional in the field.
What's Included
100 hours of structured video tutorials, a digital study manual, prep quizzes, practical labs, applied research assignments, a proctor license, and board exam.
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Program Overview
Certified Expert in Cyber Investigations (CECI): Your All-in-One Cybercrime Mastery
The Certified Expert in Cyber Investigations (CECI) program stands as one of the most comprehensive and elite certifications available today. By combining six prestigious certifications into a single powerhouse credential, CECI covers the full spectrum of cyber intelligence, counterintelligence, and advanced digital forensics. This program is meticulously designed to prepare you for the most complex cyber investigations, equipping you with the skills to combat everything from cyber fraud and network intrusions to digital espionage and cyberterrorism.
In CECI, you’ll dive deep into:
Cyber Intelligence: Learn how to gather, analyze, and apply intelligence to predict and mitigate cyber threats.
Counterintelligence: Understand how to protect sensitive information and identify insider threats before they can cause harm.
Digital Forensics: Develop advanced skills to investigate, recover, and interpret digital evidence, ensuring data integrity in every case.
Whether you’re in law enforcement, intelligence, or private-sector security, the CECI program gives you the expertise to stand out and make a difference in high-stakes cyber investigations. This unique blend of skills prepares you for roles that demand critical thinking, tactical problem-solving, and cutting-edge investigative techniques.
Career Impact
Advance Your Career as a Leading Cyber Investigator
In a world where cyber threats evolve daily, CECI-certified professionals are indispensable assets across government agencies, intelligence organizations, law enforcement, and private companies. Completing the CECI program places you in the upper echelon of cyber investigators, fully equipped with both the theoretical knowledge and practical experience to solve complex cybercrimes.
Here’s what you can achieve with CECI:
Higher-Level Roles: Open doors to specialized positions such as Cyber Intelligence Analyst, Forensic Investigator, Counterintelligence Specialist, and more. These roles often come with increased responsibilities, competitive salaries, and substantial career growth.
Valuable Skill Set: Become proficient in cutting-edge methodologies, hands-on tools, and real-world applications in cyber intelligence and forensics. Employers highly value these skills as cyber threats become more sophisticated.
Industry Recognition: Join a respected community of experts known for integrity, technical expertise, and investigative precision. The CECI credential signals to employers that you are among the best-trained professionals in the field, ready to take on advanced challenges.
With CECI, you’re not just advancing your career; you’re preparing yourself to be a leader in the fight against cybercrime.
McAfee Institute is ranked No. 1 among all training and certification providers for intelligence and investigation education, according to NICCS.
Who Is This Program For?
The CECI program is ideal for professionals who are ready to specialize in high-level cyber investigations, intelligence, and digital forensics.
This program is tailored for:
Experienced intelligence and law enforcement professionals seeking to advance their investigative skills.
Private investigators, IT security, and intelligence professionals who want to formalize their expertise with advanced methodologies.
Transitioning professionals from fields like fraud prevention, military, and intelligence who are ready to expand into cyber investigations.
Key Takeaways
Earn 6 Certifications in One Program: Achieve credentials in Cyber Intelligence, Counterintelligence, Organized Retail Crime, Social Media Intelligence, eCommerce Fraud, and Forensic HiTech Investigation.
Master Advanced Cyber Investigation Techniques: Learn the industry's best-kept secrets for cyber intelligence, digital forensics, and cyber counterintelligence.
Hands-On Training with Real-World Scenarios: Apply what you learn in simulated exercises that reflect real investigative challenges.
Develop Legal and Ethical Cyber Investigation Skills: Understand the legal aspects of cyber investigations and how to build cases for prosecution.
Build a Robust Cyber Intelligence Program: Learn to design, implement, and lead a comprehensive cyber intelligence and investigation strategy for your organization.
Program Topics
Explore the Program Curriclum Below
Welcome to CECI
Introduction to the Certifed Expert in Cyber Investigations (CECI).
Understanding the Manual
An overview of the training manual and its structure.
Cyber Intelligence (Overview)
Introduction to the field of cyber intelligence and its importance in investigations.
Intro to Cyber Investigations
Overview of the fundamentals of cyber investigations, including tools and techniques used.
Social Media Investigations
Techniques for conducting investigations on social media platforms and gathering evidence.
Advanced Social Media Investigations
Advanced methods and strategies for conducting in-depth social media investigations.
Auction Fraud Investigations
Investigation techniques specific to fraud cases related to online auctions.
Exploring the Deep Web
Introduction to the deep web and its relevance to cyber investigations.
Advanced Searching
Advanced search techniques and strategies for gathering information online.
Identification of Deception in Social Media
Techniques for identifying deceptive practices and false information on social media platforms.
Open Source Intelligence
Gathering intelligence from publicly available sources on the internet.
Understanding the Perpetrator
Understanding the motivations and characteristics of cybercrime perpetrators.
On-Line Dating Applications
Investigating online dating platforms and related cybercrimes.
Program Design and Development
Principles and techniques for designing and developing cyber investigation programs.
How to Utilize Informants
Strategies for gathering information and cooperation from informants in cyber investigations.
Legal Fundamentals of Cyber Investigations
Understanding the legal aspects and considerations in cyber investigations.
Introduction to Cyber Counterintelligence
Introduction to the field of cyber counterintelligence and its role in investigations.
Applying Intelligence Methodologies
Applying intelligence methodologies to cyber investigations for effective analysis and decision-making.
Cyber Terrorism & Hackers
Investigating cyber terrorism activities and the role of hackers in cybercrimes.
Electronic Discovery
Techniques for discovering and retrieving electronic evidence in cyber investigations.
Advanced Electronic Discovery
Advanced methods and tools for electronic discovery in complex cyber investigations.
Computer Forensics
Introduction to computer forensics and its application in cyber investigations.
Mobile Forensics
Techniques and tools for conducting forensics analysis on mobile devices in cyber investigations
Advanced Mobile Forensics - Autopsy Demo
Advanced demonstration of mobile forensics using the Autopsy tool.
RESEARCH BASED ASSIGNMENTS
Through out this program you will be tasked with completing multiple researched based assignments and discussions that are required to complete the program.
Final Board Exam
Comprehensive exam to assess knowledge and skills acquired throughout the course.
Join professionals from top government, military, and private sector organizations.
Trusted by Top Organizations Worldwide
This certification was selected for our collection of top-rated credentials, trusted by government, military, and law enforcement agencies worldwide for its rigor, relevance, and practical application. Backed by recognized standards and comprehensive support, it empowers professionals to excel and drive impactful results.
If you’re considering a McAfee Institute program and want to know if it aligns with your career goals, start by reviewing the detailed information on the program landing page. To dive deeper, submit the quick form at the top of the page to receive a program brochure with more comprehensive insights. If you still have questions or need personalized guidance, reach out to our admissions team at support@mcafeeinstitute.com, and a dedicated program advisor will get in touch with you promptly.
Are there any prerequisites or eligbility requirements for this program?
Certain McAfee Institute programs, particularly the advanced and technical ones, have prerequisites to ensure participants are prepared for the course material. These prerequisites will be listed on the program landing page and are also outlined in the program brochure. If you’re unsure about your qualifications, please email us at support@mcafeeinstitute.com for more details.
Please note: All programs are conducted in English, so proficiency in English is required for successful completion unless otherwise stated.
What is the typical class profile?
McAfee Institute programs attract a highly diverse cohort, both geographically and professionally. Over 50% of participants come from international backgrounds, and our online certificates cater to individuals from a broad range of industries and experience levels. This diversity creates a rich learning environment, offering opportunities for peer learning and networking with professionals across intelligence, investigations, and law enforcement fields.
What other dates will this program be offered in the future?
For the latest information on upcoming program dates and timelines, please check back on this page or email support@mcafeeinstitute.com to inquire about confirmed dates for future program offerings.
What to Expect in the McAfee Institute Learning Experience
How much time is required each week?
Each McAfee Institute program includes a recommended weekly study time to help you balance learning with other commitments. This estimated learner effort is outlined at the top of each program landing page in the “Duration” section. For additional details, you can access our comprehensive program brochure by submitting the quick form available at the top of this page.
How will my time be spent?
We’ve structured our programs to fit seamlessly into your schedule while maximizing the learning experience. Your time will be divided among a range of engaging activities, including:
Viewing recorded video lectures led by expert instructors
Reviewing case studies, reading assignments, and interactive examples of core concepts
Completing prep quizzes and practical exercises to reinforce key skills
Participating in moderated discussion groups with fellow students
Complete the final board exam which is online and proctored.
The programs are designed to be interactive, allowing for both guided learning and self-paced reflection. Through diverse activities, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of each topic. For questions on specific activities, please feel free to contact us directly.
What is it like to learn online with McAfee Institute?
McAfee Institute’s online programs are trusted by over 4,500 employers and recognized by multiple government and educational bodies. Our programs provide lifetime access to materials, regular updates, and are designed to help you advance your career with confidence. All course materials are made available at the program’s start, with guidance on pacing to ensure learning objectives are met effectively.
Additionally, our dedicated support team is available 24/5 (Monday to Friday) to assist with questions about the learning platform, technical issues, or any other concerns that may arise.
How do I interact with other program participants?
Collaboration and peer learning are key components of the McAfee Institute experience. Our online platform allows you to connect with other professionals, participate in discussion groups, and share insights. This network of peers will enhance your learning and offer valuable connections within the fields of intelligence, investigations, and law enforcement.
Program Requirements for Certification
What are the requirements to earn the certificate?
Each McAfee Institute program specifies a recommended weekly time commitment so you can evaluate what will be required before enrolling. This information is available at the top of the program landing page under the “Duration” section, as well as in the program brochure, which you can obtain by submitting the short form on this page. Programs are designed to integrate smoothly into your existing schedule.
Each program is assessed on a pass/fail basis. To earn your certification, you must complete all required activities, which may include quizzes, assignments, discussions and a final board exam. Specific requirements are detailed in the program brochure. If you have questions about particular requirements, feel free to reach out to us for clarification.
What type of certificate will I receive?
Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a verified digital certification from McAfee Institute. This digital certification can be shared with friends, family, employers, or colleagues and can be featured on your cover letter, resume, and LinkedIn profile to showcase your achievement. Your digital certification will be sent approximately 24-48 business hours after program completion.
Can I get a hard copy of the certificate?
Yes, McAfee Institute provides both a verified digital and physical certification upon successful completion of the program. The digital version allows easy sharing on platforms such as LinkedIn, while the physical certificate serves as a professional keepsake.
Do I receive alumni status after completing this program?
Yes formal alumni status is conferred upon program completion. All programs provide CPE credits that count toward other certifications. Information on these credits, if available, will be included in the program brochure.
How long will I have access to the learning materials?
McAfee Institute provides lifetime access to your program materials. This includes all videos, resources, and updates to the course content, ensuring that you can revisit and stay current with the latest knowledge and practices in your field.
What are the Eligibility Requirements for the CECI?
Bachelor’s degree or higher plus four years of experience in e-commerce, fraud, investigations, IT, law enforcement, forensics, criminal justice, law, and loss prevention OR Associates degree plus six years of experience OR High school diploma or equivalency plus seven years of experience.
Also, a person convicted of a felony, any crime of moral turpitude or misdemeanor relating to honesty, theft, embezzlement, fraud, or the like shall be ineligible to become a CECI®. Applicants must successfully pass the prescribed background check, which may include a criminal background check and examination process. Falsification or omission of information on the application form will be reason enough to disqualify an applicant from becoming or remaining a Certified Expert in Cyber Investigations (CECI).
What if I do not meet the eligibility requirements?
If you do not meet the eligibility requirements above that's OK! We offer a qualified program where you can get the same great training and earn a "Qualified" credential. Then when you meet the eligibility all you need to do is return and purchase the Certified Exam License to sit for the exam and earn your "Certified" credential.
Payment Options and Process at McAfee Institute
What is the program fee, and what forms of payment do you accept?
The program fee is noted at the top of this program web page and usually referenced in the program brochure as well.
Flexible payment options are available (see details below as well as at the top of this program web page next to FEE).
Tuition assistance is available for participants who qualify. Please email admissions@mcafeeinstitute.com
What if I don’t have a credit card? Is there another method of payment accepted?
Yes, you can do the bank remittance in the program currency via wire transfer or debit card. Please contact your program advisor, or email us for details.
I was not able to use the discount code provided. Can you help?
Yes! Please email us with the details of the program you are interested in, and we will assist you. Discount cannot be used in combination of other promtions, scholarship offers or reduced tuition.
How can I obtain an invoice for payment?
Please email us your invoicing requirements and the specific program you’re interested in enrolling in.
Is there an option to make flexible payments for this program?
Yes, the flexible payment option allows a participant to pay the program fee in installments. This option is made available on the payment page and should be selected before submitting the payment.
How can I obtain a W9 form?
Please connect with us via email for assistance.
Who will be collecting the payment for the program?
McAfee Institute collects all program payments, provides learner enrollment and program support, and manages learning platform services.
Refund Policy for McAfee Institute Programs
What is the program refund and policy?
We offer a NO-Questions-asked 3 day money-back guarantee from the date you enroll in your program if you are not satisfied with your program for any reason under the below conditions.
Proctored Exams: Does McAfee Institute Require One?
The McAfee Institute utilizes ProctorU which is an online exam proctoring services for all courses which require a proctored exam. This secure, cloud-based proctoring service allows students to take secure exams at their convenience while maintaining university integrity. The exam can be accessed through www.mcafeeinstitute.com. More instructions and training videos for utilizing ProctorU can be viewed in the New Student Orientation.
Board Examination Details
Exam Details Program- is graded on a pass/fail system by obtaining a 70% or better is considered a passing grade. The open-source certification exam is taken online at the convenience of your home or office with an online proctor. It is a closed book exam and is 200 questions. The questions are in a true/false, multiple-choice & scenario-based format. It is a timed exam, you get 3 hours to complete the exam and you must do so in one sitting. Once you start the exam you must complete it. You get one attempt to pass the exam. If you fail the exam you must purchase a new exam license to sit for the exam.
What's Included in Your Certification Program?
Yes, you will not need any other resources or materials as the certification program is all inclusive of the content you need to study and pass for the board exam.
How Do Scholarship Opportunities at McAfee Institute Work?
OVERVIEW
You cannot combine discount codes or other promotional offers on scholarship offers. Discount codes are valid on full price items only and cannot be combined. Scholarships are applied directly to the price of the enrollment tuition. No other codes are needed.
FINANCIAL NEED
Scholarships are available to students in financial need. They are not for employer or military purchases. Scholarships are based on sponsors and thier needs as they are sponsoring a students enrollment. Scholarships are limited and not always available.
AVAILABILITY
Scholarships are limited in the number we offer and the amount. Once they are gone they are gone. If a scholarship is available it will be listed on the course page and applied to the price on the website.
HOW TO SECURE A SCHOLARSHIP
It is easy to secure your scholarship. Simply enroll in the program of choice when a scholarship is available.
ELIGIBLITY
Scholarships are designed for students in finacial need only. McAfee Institute reserves the right to verify and validate financial need of the student on enrollment into the program.
MILITARY FUNDING
Please note that scholarship pricing offered through McAfee Institute is not applicable to military funding programs, including but not limited to Credentialing Assistance (CA), COOL or other military tuition assistance programs. Military personnel utilizing these funding sources will be subject to the standard program pricing as outlined in the respective funding guidelines.
Certification Renewal: Requirements and Steps
What is the renewal process for my certification?
To maintain your McAfee Institute certification, renewals are required every two years. The renewal process includes:
Cost: The renewal fee is $125, which extends your certification for an additional two years.
Continuing Education: You must provide proof of completion for a certain number of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits. This ensures that your skills remain sharp and up-to-date with industry standards. you can find those requirements here.
For additional details or assistance with the renewal process, please contact our support team at support@mcafeeinstitute.com.
System Requirements for McAfee Institute Programs
You cannot use a VPN, TVN or Proxy to access our site our course materials due to our security measures. In addition you will need a laptop or desktop computer as well. Review the following requirements for your camera, operating system, upload/download speeds, RAM, ports, microphones, and browsers. Also included is a list of technology not currently supported by ProctorU.
Recomended Internet Connection Wifi Connection Wired Connection
PC Users Windows 10 (Windows 10 S mode is not supported) Windows 11
Mac Users MacOS 10.13 (Oldest Still Maintained Version) MacOS 10.15
CPU More than 2 core CPU, less than 85% CPU Usage More than 4 core CPU, less than 50% CPU Usage
Webcam 640x480 resolution 1280x720 resolution
Internet Download Speed 1 Mbps 12 Mbps
Internet Upload Speed 1 Mbps 3 Mbps
RAM 4 GB, less than 95% Ram Usage 16 GB, less than 90% Usage
Screen Resolution 1366 x 768 1920 x 1080 and above
Additional Requirements:
A functioning microphone (some web cameras have them built-in); microphone should not be part of headphones
Headphones are generally not permitted, check with your testing organization to determine if headphones are permitted
A compatible browser: Google Chrome (preferred) or Mozilla Firefox
Not Supported:
Microsoft Edge browser
Google Chromebooks (with Guardian Browser)
Google Chromebooks for Live+ or Review+
Tablets (Nexus, iPad, Tab, Note, etc.)
Smartphones
Linux operating systems
Windows 10 in S mode or Surface RT
Connecting from within a virtual machine. You will be asked to reconnect using your host operating system to take your exam
Use of VPNs, Virtual Machines, and Proxies During the Course & Exam
You cannot use a VPN, TVN or Proxy to access our site our course materials due to our security measures.
Sensitive Content Disclaimer: What You Should Know
Disclaimer: Exposure to Sensitive ContentPlease be aware that the programs and certifications offered by the McAfee Institute may include content that some participants might find disturbing or offensive. By enrolling in our courses, you acknowledge that you may be exposed to materials that include, but are not limited to, adult language, nudity, graphic depictions of death, explicit discussions of political issues, scenes depicting intense violence, and real-world criminal scenarios. Additional sensitive topics may include racial and ethnic tensions, sexual content, religious contexts, mental health issues, substance abuse, terrorism, child abuse and exploitation, as well as corruption and extreme ideologies.
Context and Humor in Training:Our training sometimes incorporates humor to facilitate learning and engagement. Please understand that any humor used is intended to enhance the educational experience and is not meant to be offensive or belittle serious topics. Furthermore, discussions in our courses may cover sensitive topics such as nudity and death as they are relevant to law enforcement scenarios. Political discussions and analyses of various countries and cultures are also integral to our training, aimed at providing a comprehensive understanding of global and domestic issues as they relate to law enforcement.
Intent and Educational Purpose:These elements are included for educational purposes and are intended to provide a realistic view of the subjects under study. Our aim is not to offend or cause distress but to prepare you for real-life situations you may encounter in your professional life. We strive to handle all content with the utmost respect and professionalism, keeping in mind the diverse backgrounds of our participants.
Participants are advised to consider their personal sensitivities and circumstances before enrolling. If at any time you feel uncomfortable, we encourage you to reach out to an instructor or program coordinator for support and guidance.
By continuing with the enrollment and participating in the courses, you explicitly agree and understand that the McAfee Institute is not liable for any emotional distress, discomfort, or offense that may arise from exposure to such content or the manner in which it is presented. This includes understanding that certain topics may evoke strong emotional responses due to personal experiences or beliefs, and participants are expected to manage their engagement according to their own discretion and advice from medical or psychological professionals if necessary.
Your decision to proceed with the course indicates your acceptance of this potential exposure and an acknowledgment of the educational purpose behind including such content in our curriculum.
Timeline for Completing Certification Programs and Exams
You have one year from enrollment to complete the certification program and examination.
Flexible Financing Options for Your Certification
We offer several options to help you afford tuition for the Professional Certification in OSINT.
Available opportunities to lower tuition fees include:
Referrals – You and a colleague can each receive $695 off your tuition when you enroll together. Refer now
Group enrollments – A discount of up to 20% is available for group enrollments. For more information, email. admissions@mcafeeinstitute.com.
US Residents
Sezzle*
Fixed repayment, interest-only repayment, and deferred payment options available. Click here to learn more
Shop (Affirm)*
Fixed repayment, interest-only repayment, and deferred payment options available. Click here to learn more
Climb Credit
Immediate repayment, interest-only repayment, and deferred payment options available. Click here to know more
Flexible Payment Options For All
Flexible Payment Options – Monthly payments as low as US$1,494. Choose to pay in two, three, or six monthly installments for higher flexibility Click here to learn more
Trusted by Experts Across Law Enforcement, Intelligence, and Investigations.
Real Stories, Real Results
Our programs have empowered professionals from diverse backgrounds to achieve outstanding results. Hear directly from leaders in law enforcement, intelligence, and private security on how McAfee Institute’s certifications have transformed their careers and enhanced their expertise in tackling real-world challenges.
As a law enforcement leader, I have used McAfee Institute’s training to enhance situational awareness, threat assessment, and incident response for my team. The academic rigor, high-caliber instructors, and alignment with NYPD standards make it my preferred choice for developing credible and trusted officers. I highly recommend their certifications for both public and private sector security.
— Chief John WardChief of Police
During my law enforcement career, McAfee Institute’s training helped me track down a human trafficker using only a Snapchat username. Now, as a private investigator, I use the skills from their certifications in cases involving cyber stalking, sextortion, fraud, and missing persons. The Certified Expert in Cyber Investigations (CECI) program’s 100 hours of training, lifetime access to updates, and hands-on application requirements set it apart from other programs.
— Eli W. Wilkerson, MBA, CASIP, CECILaw Enforcement
With nearly 20 years in the US Intelligence Community, I sought a certification program that met private sector demands. McAfee Institute, highly recommended in the private sector, partners with federal agencies and offers programs led by diverse, expert instructors. The regularly updated curriculum and high standards impressed me so much that I’m now dedicating budget to train my team through their OSINT course ladder.
— John Byrk, COSINTCybersecurity and Physical Threat Intelligence Analyst
A Dynamic Learning Environment Built for Your Success
Engage in hands-on, real-world learning through our platform’s intuitive design, built for easy navigation and optimized for lifelong learning. Our user-friendly platform offers everything you need to master critical skills—from in-depth course materials and live instructor support to self-paced quizzes and lifetime access.
Your Path to a Respected Professional Designation
Gain a powerful credential recognized by top organizations and agencies. Your digital and physical certification reflects the highest standards of excellence in intelligence, investigations, and law enforcement. Your official designation is more than a certification—it's a testament to your commitment and expertise, respected by leaders in law enforcement, intelligence, and beyond.
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