Primary definition
A systematic and formal inquiry into a qualified threat or incident using digital forensics and perhaps other traditional criminal inquiry techniques to determine the events that transpired and to collect evidence.
Also known asinquiry · probe · examination · forensic analysis · audit · review · fact-finding · inquest
2 sources cited4 related termsReviewed Aug 10, 2026
— NICCS GlossaryView source
Understand more election terms clearly
Get one important election term explained each week, with authoritative sources, practical context and related definitions.
Free. One useful email each week. Unsubscribe anytime.Learn more about the ESG newsletter →
NICCS
High consensus
A systematic and formal inquiry into a qualified threat or incident using digital forensics and perhaps other traditional criminal inquiry techniques to determine the events that transpired and to collect evidence.
NICCS Glossary · 2024
Cite this term
Permanent URL · stable across revisions
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Investigation. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 22, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/investigation
Sources
2 cited · last checked Aug 10, 2026
01
NICCS Glossary
NICCS Glossary
High consensus
02
The Cyber Glossary
The Cyber Glossary
High consensus
Get the weekly election term
Receive one cited, source-backed election explanation in your inbox each week.
Get election terms explained weekly →
Free · Nonpartisan · Unsubscribe anytime.