Mission Darkness BlockBox Lab mobile device forensics analysis with graykey and cellebrite

RF Enclosure for Mobile Device Analysis

The Mission Darkness™ BlockBox Lab 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 mobile devices such as cell phones, tablets, and additional small electronics while remaining shielded from RF signals. The unit is constructed with conductive gloves for both hands to operate and interrogate devices inside (including touch screens), a transparent viewing window, LED array, AC power strip, and two USB ports for extracting data at high speeds, enabling forensic investigators to thoroughly analyze data on electronic 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.

There are two variations of the BlockBox Lab; one with an RJ45 ethernet port built into the filter, and one without it. The optional RJ45 port (along with other features) allows an operator to 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. Alternative uses relate to mobile device testing, since the product can be used to create an isolated and controlled environment.

The BlockBox Lab is constructed of a durable outer aluminum casting with RF absorbent foam lining the inside walls offering extreme device protection. The enclosure completely isolates devices inside and blocks WiFi (2.4 & 5GHz), Bluetooth, cell signals, GPS, RFID, NFC, and radio signals with >70dB average attenuation. Although designed for lab use, the light weight of the BlockBox Lab and strong side handles allow it to be transported to different locations. The comprehensive accessory kit includes a set of replacement gloves and replacement foam seals (since these items can wear out over time due to 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 Mission Darkness NeoLok Faraday Bag for Tablets with a magnetic closure, making it safe to use with conductive gloves in forensics investigations.

Video Demonstration of the BlockBox Lab

View device screens through the slated transparent window on top of the analysis enclosure

Exterior view of the MDFB-BBL

Interior view of the MDFB-BBL with a device connected to the USB filter

Features

Lab forensic analysis enclosure for operating devices and extracting information while shielded from RF signals
Large interior space - fits multiple cell phones, tablets, and similar size devices
Dual-sided shielded filter with two USB ports, one AC port, and optional RJ45 ethernet port for connecting to multiple devices
Indefinite power capabilities to prevent lockout mode and reduce 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.
Completely isolates devices - blocks WiFi (2.4 & 5GHz), Bluetooth, cell signals, GPS, RFID, NFC, and radio signals with >70dB average attenuation
Built-in conductive gloves for left and right hands-on touch plus a set of replacement gloves
Angled isolated window on top for viewing devices
High-speed data extraction through USB ports
Shielded AC power strip for powering devices internally - includes three universal power outlets and four USB outlets
LED array for illuminating interior space
RF absorbent foam liner on all interior sides
Replacement foam gasket seals with adhesive backing
Tablet size NeoLok Faraday Bag with a magnetic closure which is safe to use with conductive gloves
Durable outer aluminum casting with black coating
Dual easy release latch system
Piston hinge gas filled cover strut
Temperature range: -10°C (+14°F) to +50°C (+122°F)
Two metal side handles for easy carry
Designed for lab use but can be easily transported to different locations
Two filter options available in the drop-down menu (read details in the section below for more information)
- Item #: MDFB-BBL (without RJ45 ethernet port)
- Item #: MDFB-BBL-RJ45 (with RJ45 ethernet port)

Dimensions

Outside dimensions: 18"W x 12.75"H x 12"D
Inside dimensions: 16.75"W x 8.25"H x 10.75"D
Viewing window dimensions: 9.5"W x 3.5"H

Applications

Lab forensic analysis
State, local, federal, and military forensics
Mobile device testing and signal isolation
Anti-hacking, anti-tracking, and anti-spying assurance
Counter-surveillance
EMP and CME protection
Use with data extraction and unlocking with tools like GrayKey, Cellebrite, XRY, BlackBag, Oxygen, etc.

Kit Includes

Mission Darkness BlockBox Lab
Mission Darkness NeoLok Faraday Bag for Tablets
Unique serial number sticker
Two USB A male to A male cable
AC power cable
Set of replacement gloves
Set of replacement foam seals
Instruction card
Stylus

Compatible with Faraday Bags

A user can safely transfer seized or collected devices from individual faraday bags to the BlockBox Lab while maintaining RF shielding. Once the lid is closed, the bag can be opened inside. Mission Darkness NeoLok faraday bags with a magnetic closure (like the tablet size bag included) are preferred for use with conductive gloves.

Instruction Card

The product is simple to use, but certain precautions should be taken to effectively block RF signals and extend the life of the components. Click the button below for product care and usage instructions (a hard copy is included with the accessory kit).

Download Instructions

BlockBox Lab Brochure

Download the BlockBox Lab brochure for a printable/sharable product description.

Download Brochure

BlockBox Lab Filter Options

SKU: MBFB-BBL

Filter includes: 2 USB ports and 1 AC port

This is the standard filter preferred if shielded internet connection is not required.
The filter includes one AC and two USB ports for extracting data at high speeds, enabling forensic investigators to thoroughly analyze data on mobile devices while preventing any signal from reaching or leaving the device.

SKU: MBFB-BBL-RJ45

Filter includes: 2 USB ports, 1 AC port, and 1 RJ45 ethernet port

This is the upgraded filter option if shielded internet connection is required.
This unit includes all of the features included in the standard BlockBox Lab, in addition to allowing an operator to connect devices inside the faraday chamber to a local network internally via RJ45 ethernet port.

Interior LED array illuminates the space

The hard-sided analysis enclosure is primarily used in forensic lab setting

Interior view showing the shielded filter, universal power strip, and conductive gloves

The accessory kit includes a set of replacement gloves and foam seals that are simple to install

The included NeoLok faraday bag with a magnetic closure can be easily opened inside of the enclosure without the risk of damaging the gloves

Use with Forensics Tools, Like Cellebrite and GrayKey

The BlockBox Lab is the premier multifunctional analysis enclosure in the BlockBox forensics series. It is regarded as an essential product in any forensics lab that conducts mobile device investigations. In additional to offering an isolated environment, the various filter ports allow a user to operate, charge, interrogate, and conduct triage on multiple devices. The ability to charge 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 details below provide a basic overview of how to use the BlcokBox Lab with a few forensics tools.

The BlockBox Lab pictured with Cellebrite

If a device arrives to the lab inside a faraday bag:

- Place the closed faraday bag inside of the BlockBox Lab, 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 and connect it to the USB filter internally using a compatible cable tip. Connect an extraction tool directly to the outer USB filter on the opposite side, then use as directed.

If using with GrayKey:

- To be compatible with GrayKey, you must use the BlockBox Lab variation with an RJ45 ethernet port (SKU: MDFB-BBL-RJ45)! 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(s) to GrayKey and use the tool as directed.

*Note that further instructions for use with forensics tools will depend on the specific tool itself and the scenario. Additional forensics tools and corresponding cables are not provided.

faraday box for grayshift graykey, rf shielding, faraday enclosure, also for cellebrite, xry and other digital mobile forensic tools

Interior view of the MDFB-BBL-RJ45 showing how GrayKey and corresponding cables connect to cell phones inside

How to Use the BlockBox Lab as a Faraday Bag Transfer Chamber

If a device arrives to the police station, lab, etc. in a standard faraday bag, it can be transferred to a different or more specialized faraday bag, like the Mission Darkness Charge & Shield Faraday Bag (or visa versa), using the BlockBox Lab as an RF shielded transfer chamber.

- Simply place both bags inside the BlockBox Lab, close the lid, and open the faraday bags internally using the conductive gloves. Once the device is transferred and properly sealed in the new bag, the lid can open, and the shielded device can be moved to another location.
- This process ensures that the device is never exposed to RF signals and allows users to keep the BlockBox Lab vacant for more serious forensics investigation uses.
- *When selecting faraday bags for your department, keep in mind that faraday bags with a NeoLok magnetic closure are preferred when being handled by conductive gloves.

Products

Mission Darkness™ BlockBox Lab

Additional Resources