Project VIC "VICS" Data Model

The Video Image Classification Standard (VICS) data model is the heart of the Project VIC ecosystem. The data model is an internationally accepted approach to normalizing data across tools, vendors, and services that are used in crimes against children investigations by law enforcement. We encourage all companies with products that use hashes and other technologies to detect and categorize child abuse images and videos to become adopters of the VICS data model.

Project VIC maintains a collaboration with law enforcement investigators and technology partners to periodically update the VICS data model to enable the use of new technologies, to enable interoperability between our partners, and to ensure completeness of analysis by investigators. We release new updates to the VICS data model about once a year after we achieve a broad consensus from our partners. Any cyber forensic company wanting to specialize in the area of image and video categorization and victim identification will benefit from becoming a VICS data model adopter.

Since our founding in 2012 we have worked with specialized national data analysis program in Canada, United Kingdom (CAID), United States, and Australia to adopt the VICS data model. In 2020 we started working on the same adoption in our Katalyst program in India.

Please reach out to us via our "help" button to learn more about the VICS data model. We only share details with law enforcement and vendors under a formal agreement.

Certifications

Certifications are needed to protect the integrity of the VICS ecosystem worldwide. Countries involved in using VICS have a mutual interest to maintain the quality and integrity of data being imported and exported within their national networks. The certification process introduces the qualified applicant to the data model and how it is used in each country they do business in. Product vendors are expected to demonstrate to Project VIC International the level of compliance that they achieve within a country requirements or special handling requirements to obtain VICS compliance.

Please reach out to us via our contact form or help button to learn more about gaining or renewing a VICS data model certification.

Project VIC Parters with Kindred Tech to Spearhead Management and Distribution of VICS Data Model

Neptune City, NJ, October 2023 - Project VIC International, a leading organization dedicated to advancing victim identification workflows, announces a significant transition in the management and distribution of the Project VIC Data Model (VICS) data model.

Starting from November 1st, 2023, Kindred Tech will take the helm as the organization responsible for overseeing the coordination, releases, and growth of the VICS data model and associated ecosystem. Kindred Tech's exceptional expertise and demonstrated commitment, particularly through their involvement in projects like Project Katalyst and ForceForge, have positioned them as the natural choice to guide the evolution of the VICS data model.

With a track record of innovation and collaboration, Kindred Tech is well-equipped to uphold the standards of excellence that Project VIC represents.

"We are thrilled to announce Kindred Tech as the steward of the VICS data model," said Rich Brown, CEO of Project VIC International. "Their dedication to enhancing victim identification workflows and their contributions to international projects make them the ideal partner for this endeavour."

One of the key aspects of this partnership involves the utilization of ForceForge as the primary delivery mechanism for the VICS data model. This decision reflects Project VIC's commitment to leveraging the community to ensure efficient and secure distribution of the data model.

By capitalizing on ForceForge's capabilities, Project VIC International and Kindred Tech aim to streamline access to the VICS data model and foster an environment of collaborative growth.

As this transition takes effect, Project VIC International looks forward to witnessing the continued development and expansion of the VICS data model under Kindred Tech's stewardship. The partnership between Project VIC International and Kindred Tech is poised to drive positive change and elevate the standards of victim identification workflows on a global scale.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact: info@projectvic.org

About Kindred Tech:
Kindred Tech is a forward-thinking technology organization specializing in impactful projects that drive positive change. With a strong focus on innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence, Kindred Tech is dedicated to contributing to initiatives that have a meaningful societal impact.