Concealed Information Test (CIT)
Advanced Investigative Methodology — Recognition-Based Forensic Assessment.
The Concealed Information Test is a recognition-based methodology that assesses whether an individual recognises specific, non-public information relevant to an investigation. Unlike a conventional polygraph examination, CIT does not evaluate deception—it evaluates recognition of concealed investigative details.
A specialist methodology requiring specific investigative conditions, CIT is not appropriate for every case. The Centre for Forensic Neuroscience conducts a thorough suitability assessment before recommending this or any methodology.
What Is the Concealed Information Test?
An alternative forensic methodology based on the detection of recognition, not deception.
The CIT—historically called the Guilty Knowledge Test (GKT)—presents multiple-choice items in which one option corresponds to a genuine concealed detail and the remaining options are plausible but incorrect alternatives. Physiological responses are measured to determine whether the individual recognises the relevant item.
Unlike a conventional polygraph, CIT does not evaluate truthfulness or deception. It measures recognition memory through the detection of involuntary physiological changes when an individual encounters personally significant information.
Key Distinctions
- Measures recognition, not deception
- Uses a multiple-choice stimulus format
- Requires confidential holdback information
- Addresses a different investigative question from CQT
- Extensively peer-reviewed and used internationally
Why CIT Is Different from a Conventional Polygraph
Two distinct methodologies addressing different investigative questions.
| Conventional Polygraph (CQT) | Concealed Information Test (CIT) | |
|---|---|---|
| Question addressed | Is the individual being deceptive about a specific matter? | Does the individual recognise specific concealed information? |
| Question format | Direct accusatory questions compared against comparison questions | Multiple-choice items: one relevant detail among several plausible alternatives |
| What is measured | Physiological responses associated with deception | Physiological orienting response to recognised information |
| Key requirement | Well-formulated relevant and comparison questions; suitable case circumstances | Confidential holdback information with plausible alternative items |
CIT and conventional polygraph are complementary methodologies, not competing ones. The Centre for Forensic Neuroscience assesses each case individually and recommends whichever approach—or combination of approaches—best fits the investigative question.
The Investigation Comes First
Why the quality of the investigation determines whether CIT is viable.
In CIT, the confidential investigative information is the test material. The quality, specificity, and confidentiality of that information are not merely desirable—they are essential. Early consultation is recommended where CIT is being considered.
"In the Concealed Information Test, the investigation does not simply provide background information—it provides the test material."
Holdback Information
CIT requires confidential details that an uninvolved person would not be expected to know.
Media Contamination
If concealed details have been publicly disclosed, the evidential basis for CIT may be compromised.
Disclosure Risk
Exposure through interviewing, evidence sharing, or case materials can undermine the methodology.
Early Consultation
The Centre for Forensic Neuroscience can advise on information handling from the earliest stages to preserve CIT viability.
Scientific Principles
How recognition memory and the orienting response underpin the methodology.
Recognition Memory
When an individual encounters previously experienced information, their brain processes it differently from novel material. This automatic recognition manifests in measurable physiological changes, even without verbal acknowledgement.
The Orienting Response
An involuntary physiological reaction occurs when a person perceives a stimulus as personally significant. This involves measurable changes in skin conductance, heart rate, and respiration patterns.
Multiple-Choice Stimulus Presentation
Each question set contains one genuine case detail (the "probe") alongside several plausible but incorrect alternatives. Only someone who recognises the relevant detail would be expected to produce a differential physiological response.
When Might CIT Be Appropriate?
Suitability depends on the specific circumstances of the investigation. The following are examples of contexts in which CIT has been or may be considered—they are not exhaustive, and each case requires individual assessment.
Serious Criminal Investigations
- Homicide investigations with holdback evidence
- Missing persons and body recovery
- Concealed weapons or property
- Route reconstruction and location identification
Security and Intelligence
- Organised crime investigations
- Corruption and misconduct enquiries
- Intelligence and counter-intelligence matters
Corporate and Financial
- Corporate investigations with confidential evidence
- Insurance fraud where specific details are known
- Financial investigations with holdback material
Illustrative examples only—the Centre for Forensic Neuroscience conducts a thorough assessment before recommending any methodology.
Specialist Training in CIT Methodology
Dr Keith Ashcroft has received training in CIT methodology through Japan's National Research Institute of Police Science (NRIPS), where CIT has been the standard forensic psychophysiological methodology for decades. This training forms part of the Centre for Forensic Neuroscience's wider investigative capability, enabling assessment and application of CIT where conditions are met.
This statement describes training received and does not imply endorsement or affiliation on the part of NRIPS or the National Police Agency of Japan.
CIT Within Our Investigative Services
CIT is one of several methodologies available through the Centre for Forensic Neuroscience. The investigative question determines the methodology—not the other way around.
Conventional Polygraph Examination
Comparison Question Test (CQT) methodology for assessing deception in response to specific relevant questions.
Concealed Information Test
Recognition-based methodology for assessing whether an individual recognises specific concealed information. (Current page)
Statement Validity Assessment and Statement Analysis
Systematic evaluation of written or verbal accounts using criteria-based and scientific content analysis approaches.
Investigative Interviewing
Structured interview methodologies informed by cognitive and forensic psychology principles.
Cognitive Mapping
Visual mapping of cognitive and behavioural processes to support investigative analysis and understanding.
Question Formulation Consultation
Specialist consultation on the development and formulation of questions for forensic psychophysiological assessment.
Unsure which service is relevant? Contact the Centre for Forensic Neuroscience to discuss your requirements in confidence.
Limitations and Considerations
CIT is a specialist methodology with specific requirements. It is not appropriate for every investigation.
CIT may not be appropriate when:
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Information has become public. Media coverage, court proceedings, or other disclosure may compromise the methodology.
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Details may be known by innocent individuals. Legitimate access or circumstantial exposure limits the interpretive value of recognition.
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Suitable concealed information is unavailable. CIT requires multiple sets of specific, verifiable details with plausible alternatives.
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Information reliability is in question. Unverified holdback details may affect the validity of the test.
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Plausible alternatives cannot be developed. Each concealed detail must be embedded among equally plausible items for an uninformed person.
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Another methodology may be more appropriate. The Centre for Forensic Neuroscience will recommend the best-suited approach for the investigative question.
A detailed case assessment is always conducted before any methodology is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Clarifications on the Concealed Information Test methodology.
Is CIT the same as a lie detector test? expand_more
No. CIT is fundamentally different from a conventional polygraph examination. A polygraph (CQT) evaluates deception through direct accusatory questions. CIT measures whether an individual recognises specific, non-public information using a multiple-choice format.
Can CIT determine whether someone is lying? expand_more
No. CIT measures recognition, not deception. It detects whether an individual produces an involuntary orienting response to information that should only be recognisable to someone with knowledge of it.
Can CIT prove someone committed an offence? expand_more
No. CIT cannot prove guilt, innocence, or involvement. It provides investigative information about whether an individual appears to recognise specific case details. Recognition does not establish culpability.
What information is required before CIT can be considered? expand_more
Specific, verifiable case details that have not been made public and are unlikely to be known by an uninvolved person. These must be suitable for multiple-choice presentation alongside plausible alternatives. A detailed case assessment is always conducted first.
Is CIT suitable for every investigation? expand_more
No. CIT has specific requirements that many investigations will not meet. It depends on confidential holdback information, the quality of that information, and whether plausible alternatives can be developed. The Centre for Forensic Neuroscience conducts a thorough suitability assessment before recommending any approach.
Can CIT be used together with a conventional polygraph examination? expand_more
In some circumstances, yes. CIT and conventional polygraph may complement each other as they address different investigative questions. The Centre for Forensic Neuroscience considers each case individually and advises on whether a combined approach is suitable.
Why must the investigative information remain confidential? expand_more
Confidentiality is essential to the integrity of CIT. The methodology measures recognition of information that should only be known to someone with direct knowledge of events. If that information has been disclosed, an individual may recognise it regardless of involvement.
Can private clients request CIT? expand_more
CIT may be available to private clients, corporate organisations, and legal representatives, subject to suitability assessment. The same evidential and methodological requirements apply regardless of the instructing party.
Is CIT used internationally? expand_more
Yes. CIT is the subject of extensive international research and is used operationally in several countries. In Japan, NRIPS has conducted CIT research for decades and it is used as the standard forensic psychophysiological methodology nationwide.
How do I know whether my investigation is suitable? expand_more
Suitability depends on the nature of the investigation, available confidential information, and whether necessary conditions can be met. The Centre for Forensic Neuroscience offers confidential preliminary consultations—contact us to discuss your case.
Further Reading
Selected references for those wishing to learn more about CIT and its scientific basis.
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin
Discusses CIT as an alternative methodology to the CQT, including its scientific basis and operational application.
National Research Institute of Police Science (NRIPS)
Japan's forensic research institute, conducting CIT research and operational application for decades within its Fourth Department of Forensic Science.
Discuss Whether CIT Is Appropriate
Not every investigation is suitable for CIT. The Centre for Forensic Neuroscience evaluates each case individually and will advise on the most appropriate methodology. Contact us in confidence for a preliminary consultation.