What happened

Developed by Adam Mosher and used in nearly 8,000 cases across 40 US states, Cybercheck employs machine learning to analyse extensive data sources, including social media and digital forensics, to identify suspects and gather evidence. 

Mosher claims the tool boasts over 90 percent accuracy, significantly expediting research that would typically require hundreds of human hours.

However, multiple cases call into question Mosher's claims. For example, Cybercheck was used to convict Adarus Black of murder for his supposed involvement in a drive-by shooting, leading to a life sentence. 

The AI tool reportedly triangulated Black's cellphone location with over 90 percent accuracy; however, there was no direct evidence linking him to the location of his alleged crime and jurors indicated they may not have convicted him without the Cybercheck report.

Why it happened

Concerned about the tool's accuracy and transparency, defence experts have nonetheless been unable to verify evidence cited by Cybercheck due to its black box nature and Mosher's refusal to provide evidence to support his claims or allow an independent third-party audit of the system.

The lack of transparency has raised the prospect of multiple potential miscarriages of justice, and led some courts to exclude Cybercheck evidence. For example, a New York judge ruled against its use when prosecutors failed to demonstrate its acceptance within the scientific community.

Investigations have also revealed that Mosher made dubious claims about his qualifications and previous expert testimonies.