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The term forensic science is often shortened by most people into simply “forensics”. Whatever its coined name may be, the truth remains the same that forensics is an application which deals with the legal system.

Computer forensics is just among its many branches and it particularly expresses its use in line with the civil action or crime. Some very meticulous individuals will likely disagree as to the correctness of the use of “forensics” instead of “forensic science” since the first term is held to be a synonym for something that is related to the courts or any legal matter.

A part of computer forensic history will make mention about its meaning in Latin which is “prior to the forum”.  With the onset of several modern dictionaries, the name “forensics” equivalently points out to “forensic science”. Let us dwell deeper and touch on some basic facts about computer forensic history.

Going Back to the Old Days

Forensic generally roots from a Latin word, “forensic” which means forum or discussion. In the reign of the Romans, any criminal who has been charged with a crime is presented before an assembly of public folks. Both of the complainant and the defendant are to present their sides through their own speeches.

The one who was able to explain his side with fervent delivery and argumentation typically won the case. That individual was referred to as one who was skilled in forensics

Forensic Science Historical Points

The earliest account of the employment of forensic science can be traced back to the renowned legend of Archimedes’ “Eureka”. He defined that a crown was not fully composed of gold by means of identifying its weight and displacement yet without creating any damage to it. More so, the most primitive trace of the use of fingerprint to institute one’s identity was in the 7th century.

It was Soleiman, the Arabic merchant, who explained that the borrower’s fingerprints were enjoined in the bill which was to be given out to the lender. As a proof, the bill was recognized as a legal validation of the existing debt.

Then again, the book entitled Xi Yuan Ji Lu or the Collected Cases of Injustice Rectified as written by Song Ci of the Song Dynasty tells of the instance when the case of a murdered person was resolved by one death investigator who directed all individuals to relocate his sickle in a particular location.

Then, the flies gathered onto the single sickle. With this, the murderer eventually confessed. Likewise, the book points out the examination of the presented evidence in order to distinguish if a death was a result of an accident, suicide, or murder.

Around the 16th century in Europe, the medical specialists in the university and army started studying the cause and method of a person’s death. Notable personas dealt with the study of the internal organs and the changes in the human body structure as a result of diseases. Whereas, a demonstration of the use of proper procedure and logic was once depicted in the murder case of Edward Culshaw by John Toms of Lancaster, England.

Computer Forensics as a Discipline

Forensic science has a myriad of subdivisions. One of which is computer forensics. Otherwise known as digital forensics, this subdivision is the submission of the proven claims of scientific methods and strategies in the purpose of recovering lost data whether they have been purposefully or accidentally erased, from a digital or electronic media source. Computer forensics is applied both in the lab and in the field.

Computer forensics history tells of the account of this field’s development and it explains the reason as to why this is much applicable for today. More so, crimes are helpfully solved through the process of computer forensics.

Thanks to television shows most of us already have an idea of what forensics is. Although some scenes are not depicted correctly (examining specimens are more exhausting and mentally draining due to the constant demand for paying attention to details, they don’t look as easy as they are in television with swooping camera angles) they have given us an idea on what they do in collecting evidence.

Computer forensics is part of this investigation. Due to the higher incidence of cyber crimes they are now an essential part of the legal process.

We already have an idea on what they do. However a computer forensics job entails a lot of procedures and expertise. Like any other evidence electronic data can also be fragile and damaged.  There are certain steps to be followed to ensure that the data will be collected without being tampered.

A day in the work of a computer forensic analyst

The first thing that an analyst will do is to secure the data and the machine. The data can never be analyzed in the same system that it came from so exact copies are made. Usually the data in a hard drive is duplicated to extract the information needed.

The collection process starts when the analyst examines the surroundings of the machine. Other physical evidence such as notes, disks and printouts are also taken. Photographs of the surroundings are also taken. The area is also examined for portable storage devices.

If the computer system is still operating the information will be collected by examining its applications. Computers that are used for illegal communications may not have all of the data stored in the hard drive. Information stored in Random Access Memory will be lost if the computer is shut down so this step is important.

Open source tools are used to analyze on live computers. Analysts can also obtain an image of mapped drives and encrypted containers while they are on. The data from network connections are captured first, then running applications, and lastly from the Random Access Memory.

The computer is then shut off carefully in a way that it will not loose any data. The method used will depend in the computer and the operating system it uses. If proper shut down is made volatile data can be lost. Pulling the plug is not advisable either because it may corrupt the file system and loose important data.

The analyst then inspects for trap and photographs the configuration of the system. A diagram will also be made including serial number and markings.

The analyst then makes an exact duplicate of the hard drive called Imaging. They often use hard drive duplicators or software imaging tools. This is done in sector levels to make bit-stream copies of ever part that is accessible to the user which can store data.

The original hard drive is then installed with a hardware write protection and sent to a secure storage. After making a complete and accurate copy the duplicated data can now be analyzed for evidence. Analysts use algorithm to make sure that the imaging process is verified. Two algorithms are generally used in this process.

The analyst then renders his opinion then documents everything that was done. A report is made that contains all the findings of the analyst and whether or not it has been used in an illegal activity or criminal act.

Computers have greatly influenced the way we live and the way the world works. Criminals have adapted to the fast paced world. Crimes related to computers and information technology has steadily risen in the past few years. The interest in forensics has greatly risen due to the development of technology.

The need for computer forensics has risen due computer crimes. Criminals nowadays are smarter, technologically aware and sophisticated. Individuals whose careers are related to information technology can enroll in computer forensic courses.

Computer forensics is not just related to law enforcement and criminal matters. They are also not just hired by law enforcement agencies. Computer forensic analysts are needed in any situation where investigation of computer systems is involved.

This can be used in divorces, medical malpractice, and civil disputes. Computers are pretty much everywhere and are used in everyday living. They are also hired by organizations, companies and individuals who need them who have been victimized by computer crimes.

Training and courses

Anyone who has a degree or career related to information technology can enroll in the course. This includes troubleshooters, technicians, security auditors and professionals, network engineers and administrators, and IT security officers. Interested individuals can enroll in universities and colleges. There are many online schools scattered over the internet.

Some of them are offered by private organizations and institutions. The most important that you should remember is to get a comprehensive certification course.

Certification courses will train you to become a qualified computer forensic analyst. There are different certification courses with different curriculums. These courses also have different topics. Others can take as long as 8 days. Simple certification courses n the hand can take up to 3 days. The courses you will take will depend on what topic you want to study.

An example of this is the EnCase Certified examiner program. It offers certifications for those who have mastered the EnCase software. The EnCase software is well known in the field of computer forensics. Students will undergo a training course with a copy of the software.

Another one is the Advanced Information Security Certification. It is offered by the Security University which focuses on prevention and security risk management. They have eight courses to train students in planning, building and implementing security applications and related technology. It’s an advanced level of certification and students must have expertise in security technologies. The program has eight courses.

Students are required to attend eight classes on the AIS roadmap and pass an exam after completing a course. The cost of the exam is $1,200 to $2,500.

LC tech offers the Computer Forensic, Cybercrime and Security Training Curriculum. They offer certification in programs such as internet crimes against people and children, high tech criminal investigator 1 and 2, Network Security Intrusion and Detection, Advanced File System Recovery, Personal Digital Device Forensics, Presenting Digital Evidence at Trial and Certified Cybercrime First Responder.

If you are not ready yet for intensive training there you can enroll for a simple training program. The Advanced Computer Forensics Boot Camp offers a program that will teach you all about digital forensics in 3 days.

Deciding on which certification program will depend in what topic that you want to learn. Newcomers should study in a University while experienced professionals get advanced courses to keep them updated with the latest technology and security software.

Computer Forensics Tools to Uncovering Lost Data

Generally, computer forensics is the procedure of computer system investigation by means of gathering and examining all information and proofs related to computers. The process is done to find out the illegal use of the files and system in any crime or deceitful activities.

Through time, computer forensics tools have been deemed useful by the various agencies like the law enforcement, military, intelligence and other businesses. Since the process is not only tedious but is also recognized to be a way of uncovering certain wrongdoings, all of the gathered evidences are required by the court.

Aside from recovering all computer data, computer forensics is likewise concerned with digging out all possible angles that may point out the so-called rascal contractors or employees who have been greatly involved in the act of leaking out certain information, company projects and plans to a third party.

Only the computer forensics specialists can put in the techniques of uncovering fraudulent actions and crimes into materialization. With its application being widely used in almost all fields, company employers nowadays concern themselves in tracking down the best computer forensics professionals so that they can be assured that their properties are safe at all costs. Moreover, only these professionals are the ones who are entitled and knowledgeable to apply the computer forensics tools.

The investigators nonetheless make use of computer forensics tools as they collect the pertinent data from the system yet without changing any of the information keyed into the computer’s data bank. The computer forensics tools are held to be very important since the original data must not at all be changed or else the purpose of uncovering the malicious act will be defeated.

Originally, it is very difficult and almost impossible not to alter any of the stored data but with the tools that the computer forensics experts use, they can ensure than no alterations will be made as they scan through the saved data. In fact, even the simple act of shutting down the computer’s power system may cause some slight changes to the system’s databank.

However, when done by the expert, the originality of the information is kept intact. To do this, the computer forensics professional often creates an authenticated copy of the data. The process is referred to as imaging and is thus presented as the subject for scrutiny.

Another wonder that the computer forensics tool can make is the possibility of recovering any deleted data. As the professionals put it, any deleted data is not at all erased from the entire system. What is usually wiped off is the reference to its location.

The data, therefore, still exists only that the operating system is no longer acquainted about it. With imaging and seeing through all of the information kept in the system, it is by all means possible to recover any intentionally or accidentally deleted data.

The computer forensics tools are not limited to a specific task just like a hammer is intended for hammering a concrete nail. They are by nature multi-functioning. The experts in computer forensics know which of the tools from their toolkit they should use to tackle the problem at hand.

More so, the costs of the computer forensic tools vary. Most of the commercialized tools amount to thousands of dollars. Again, it is the intensity of the problem which will determine the right tool to utilize.

Computer forensic is a relatively new career. The interest in the field was due to the popular television shows. The importance on the other and is far more serious. Cyber crimes are steadily increasing. Criminals and offenders nowadays are getting more sophisticated and high tech.

Thieves use their technical know how to hack into confidential data for their own schemes. This is why the need for computer forensics has risen. The field can be a lucrative career and pay well.

However before you become a qualified computer forensic analyst you have to undergo training. It is just natural that a computer forensic company and the individuals who need their service hire experts. Apart from finishing a degree, analysts must also keep themselves updated by having continuing education.

Cyber crimes get more advanced as technology continues to develop. Computer analysts must keep abreast with the times to make sure that they have enough knowledge in whatever problem that they will encounter ahead.

Computer forensics pays

Computer forensic experts are paid by the hour. The price is usually from $250 to $350 per hour but it will also depend on the client’s problem or case. If the evidence has been tampered or damaged it make take a lot of time for the data to be recovered. Usually in companies, the common mistake is by sending their IT personnel to make a preliminary investigation. To reduce costs they may even try to handle the problem by themselves which just complicates the problem at hand.

Naturally before you get hired you have to take finish a course. There are universities and colleges that offer this course who have realized its need in the modern high tech world. There are also courses online. You have to careful though because anyone who has technical know how of the internet and HTML can make a website. Be sure that the online school you will apply too is credited.

There are also certification programs available for those who want to expand their knowledge. Some will teach you from the ground up while some will require experience. Security administrators and auditors can apply for new programs. Professional who have a related degree in information technology and computer science can apply.

There is a broad range of topics available for those who want to learn and acquire certifications for new areas. This will also be a chance for experts to upgrade their tool kits. Continuing education is important especially in the field of technology.

You can also work freelance or put up your own agency or company. Computer forensic analysts can trace emails which is a common way of communication. They can also trace other forms of communications such as instant messaging and cell phones. There are individuals who hire private investigators. This requires technical know how because computers are an important of our lives.

Computer forensics is a lucrative field. Apart from that the need for computer forensic experts are also steadily increasing. Companies loose millions of dollars due to fraud, sabotage and employee theft. Technology is continually evolving and due to that we all have to keep up even the criminals.

The Hollywood movies may not be true but the danger is real. Computer forensics is one of the newly sought after field, whether you want to expand your knowledge or just finding an alternative career

Computer forensics jobs are numerous, so to speak. It is one of the careers that is placed on a pedestal. Well, we can’t absolutely say that there are only a few people who opt to take up computer forensics training but it is safer to assume that there are a lot of opportunities available.

Businesses, corporations, military, law enforcement, and other intelligence agencies are mainly employing computer forensics investigators because they can help out in their attempt to solve crimes. More so, the range of computer forensics jobs is skyrocketing in response to the tantamount range of computer-related crimes.

In the past years, computer crimes were not that popular. Yet, with the advent of the technological advances particularly in line with the use of computers, the computer-related wrongdoings constantly heightened. These crimes are nevertheless facts to be dealt with by all branches of the law enforcement agencies.

That is why; computer forensics experts are much needed. After all, computer forensics popularized after the tedious labor exerted to solve the Enron scandal.

Computer Forensics at Work

In handling crimes, the investigators need to fully scan the computers to detect any fraud, illegal, and other unauthorized behaviors. The investigators should nonetheless be experts who have the basis of knowledge in handling such cases. Computer forensics jobs require that the qualified applicants have the profound certification programs, credentials, and on-the-job experience. The tasks are not to be belittled because they require real dedication and hands-on work.

The computer forensics specialists are known by a lot of titles or names. They include computer forensic investigators, digital forensics detectives, and digital media analysts, to name a few. The career description is all about the investigation or examination of the data placed in any form of digital media.

Lucrative wages are offered at stake for the qualified persons. Private firms of course give out higher salaries. But the compensation given by the law enforcement agencies ranges between $85,000 up to $120,000 annually. The determining factors are by and large one’s experience and skills.

Meanwhile, a graduate of computer forensics has all of the means of making advances in his career. He can be employed as an agency’s forensic team leader or even a bureau supervisor provided that he has the capacity to fulfill the requirements of the computer forensics job. To date, fifty percent of the jobs available in the Federal Bureau of Investigation look into the applications for computer forensics investigators.

Also, another computer forensics job is by being a consultant. This depicts one who works freely and independently. As a computer forensics consultant, you can partake in various assignments and charge large sums based on the time that you have to spend for the task. Consultants charge their clients on an hourly basis. The fees usually range in between $375 up to $600 per hour.

More and more people will demand for the assurance that their contact with the computer network will not be put at risk. Or if it does, they can turn to someone who is qualified to solve their ordeals. What are you waiting for? It is time that you start off with your steps in realizing a career with computer forensics.

In the coming years and with the course of the advances in technology, it is certain to assume that computer forensics jobs will continue to increase. Thus, more opportunities await the computer forensic professionals.

Cyber crimes are becoming more and more widespread nowadays. Internet provides access to the World Wide Web, but online anyone can be anything. Computers are also used widespread from households to financial institutions. This forces criminals to adapt to new technologies and to keep up with the times.

Computer forensic analysts have become in demand to keep up with the cyber crime rates. In turn, computer forensic software are enhanced and updated to keep up with these criminal acts.

Unfortunately hiring a computer forensic analyst can be expensive. Apart from law enforcement agencies there are also private organizations that are willing to do the job for you. Other work independently and charge by the hour for their work. Fortunately there are ways that you can do your own investigation before resorting for professional help.

Do it yourself

Not all of us are well informed on computer systems and the science behind these machines. Most people who do not have a degree or work related to computer forensics only know the basics. We know how to use the computer for sending instant messages, surfing the internet, sending emails and run some applications. However not all of us are know the technical aspect of the hardware. Fortunately there is a way we can try and find out what’s going on.

Computer forensic analysts are able to make an exact duplicate of a hard drive. They analyze the contents of the copy to know if the computer has been used for illegal activities or criminal acts. They can also trace emails and instant messages. They have their own toolkits and programs to help them do this job. This is why you have to hire them because they have the tools.

Fortunately there are available computer forensic software programs that can help you. Software companies are creating programs that enable an individual to detect cyber crimes. WetStone and AccessData are some of the companies who are developing software programs that generate forensic responses.

WetStone is a company that addresses stenography. This is process that encrypts and embeds data on the email attachment. X-way forensics provides software solution that has a broad range of forensic features.

Many more software programs are being developed to cope up with the rise and advancement of cyber crimes. There are various toolkits that can you. These toolkits have the ability to duplicate hard drives and analyze data. If you have knowledge in security technologies you can install these software programs to help you.

This also prevents future cyber crimes from being committed in the future. This is applicable to companies who want to prevent security breaches in their network. Security administrators and auditors can install this software to help them when needed.

If the software is not enough this is the time that you can hire a computer forensic analyst. Unfortunately if you do not have any knowledge in security technologies it is best to hire a professional. Electronic evidence should comply with the standards of the court. If the evidence is tampered it will inadmissible in the court of law.

Dealing with electronic data can be complicated. For the average person being cautious when dealing with people online, especially with money, is important. Prevention is always better than cure. Fortunately continuing developments will enable us to combat crime.

What is usually covered by the computer forensic training? Who can qualify for it? Before you think of applying for any computer forensic training, you better be guided by some principles. Read on and find out more about what its training provide the learner with.

At a Glance

Basically, computer forensics deals with the process of bringing together the computer-related proofs and files and thereby examining them fully in order to unearth any possible engagement with crimes and deceptive moves. This is the newest field in which the military, intelligence firms, business corporations, and the law enforcement concentrate in.

There is a protocol which the computer forensics training emphasizes. It mainly focuses on the scrupulous observation of all evidences since these findings are to be presented before the court.

What the Training Offers

Computer forensics training specializes in equipping the individual with the skill to flawlessly handle the tasks at hand especially in line with retrieving the data which have been kept in an electronic device or any type of digital media. The deleted files can miraculously be restored by a computer forensics investigator and such skill is nonetheless honed by the training.

More so, many intelligent agencies as well as the military and the law enforcement field see the need to employ computer forensics in uncovering any motives or evidences to solve the crimes that they handle. Most of the times, suspects to the crime that use the computer data in their misdemeanors are tracked down by the computer forensics specialists.

Likewise, anyone who is suspected to leak or use any of the confidential information in a company to a third party can be found out with the help of a computer forensics specialist.

The training for computer forensics molds the trainees with the necessary qualifications needed for applying the techniques in response to the need of the task. The field of computer forensics is nonetheless expanding and the more chances of grabbing out some opportunities escalate for the budding specialists.

Certificate programs and computer forensics training are offered by several institutions. By attending the classes for a formal education in computer forensics, the computer skills, legal issues, and forensic tools will be learned by the person. It is necessary that at the end of the training, the person is prepared to go on with the tasks like retrieving information from the computer programs and its systems.

The main job of a computer forensic investigator is to restore both the purposefully and accidentally deleted data. More so, the training also points out the most appropriate tools and software to use on a case to case basis.

Credential Requirement

There are no licensure examinations to be undergone only that there are certain credentials that should be supplied. Among the major credentials that one can present are the formal education bases such as the Certified Computer Examiner or CCE and the Certified Information Systems Security Professional or CISSP.

Graduates of the training can be employed as computer security or as an investigator in the law enforcement team. Also, another growing opportunity that one can try out is the computer forensics consulting. Consultants earn higher compensations since most of them work as freelancers.

Computer offenses are escalating every now and then so there is the significance of computer forensics experts in the fields of defense forces, law enforcement agencies, business corporations, and other related institutions.

But before one can qualify to handle the responsibilities designated for an investigator, he has to first undergo the profound computer forensics training.

The Computer Forensic Toolkit

Computer forensics has been garnering a lot if interest due to the increase of cyber crimes. The need for computer forensic experts is steadily increasing. As the technology continues to develop criminals and offenders find a way to catch up. The Computer has become an important part of your lives.

It has changed the way we work and live. This is why it has become the target of criminals and offenders. Computer forensics helps combat crimes. It is also necessary for them to avoid mistakes and make sure that they do their job. Fortunately a computer forensic toolkit is available to make sure that they got all the bases covered.

Computer forensics is complex. It needs careful preparation and procedures must be followed diligently. It may look easy in television but computer forensics takes a lot steps. If any of these steps are missed the evidence can be tampered. The evidence will be inadmissible in court and the computer forensic analyst may face a lawsuit.

The right tools for the right job

Like any other job we need the right tools for it. These tools are important to be able to do your job well and avoid mistakes as much as possible. If you’re a computer forensic expert you cannot afford to make a mistake. Any evidence should be handled carefully and properly.

Any IT professional can retrieve data but they are not trained in evidence techniques that are necessary for the job. In most cases the computer system is taken from owners even though they have provided consent. If the data and the machine are compromised the computer forensic analyst may face a lawsuit.

The computer forensic toolkit reduces the risk of making mistakes while doing your investigation. It also serves as a guide and framework to be able to have a smooth investigation. It also serves as en educational guide for newcomers that will provide the technical and legal know how to a forensic investigation.

A computer forensics toolkit is available online. Unfortunately it not free and costs $199. It’s a comprehensive guide for both the beginner and the veteran. To keep with the continuing changes in the technology tools such as these are important for a faster and more efficient forensic investigation. Computer forensics is not exactly one of those jobs wherein you can erase your mistake and begin over.

The whole tool kit can be viewed in MS word format for easier reading. The first part of the toolkit is the Introduction and Guide. It contains a comprehensive overview of computer forensics with an outline for the whole procedure. The next is Management Presentation. It is followed by forensics report template which provides a guide in making consistent reports.

Essential Forensics Forms, as the name suggests contains all requisite forms for documentation. Manuals and Procedures contain all the steps done in the forensic laboratory.  Forensic glossary contains all the terms. Forensic resources contain the FAQ, cost estimator, case studies and valuable tips.

There’s checklist to keep track of your progress. The last but not the least is the Tool Reference Catalog which contains the list of documents and software tools that you need.

The toolkit will provide the know how for any newcomer and a reviewer for the veteran. Every analyst should keep abreast with the times to make sure that the criminals won’t overtake them.

What is computer forensics investigation? How can it help solve crimes?

The news in the broadsheets, television, and radio about various crimes such as murder, holdup, thieving, and the likes are no longer new to us. Crimes happen here and there. We can’t say that we can’t fall as the next victims. In the past years, computer forensic investigation had earned a remarkable commendation particularly in line with solving crimes.

The then Enron scandal signaled the start of the glories of computer forensics. To date, a lot of intelligence, law enforcement, military, and business agencies rely on this field in the hope of speeding up the process of solving any malicious scandal done to other individuals or within the firms themselves.

Computer forensics is the scientific study that deals with computers and the related facts in connection with an investigation done by any law enforcement firm for the purpose of presenting the evidences in the court. This branch of study has existed for an innumerable number of decades and perhaps it is of the same age with the presence of computers.

However, thanks to the advantages in the modern technology because computer forensics investigation is placed onto a much higher level. Revisions and upgrades are constantly applied to the field of computer forensics.

Old Time Computer Forensics at a Glance

In the past years when technology was not yet that modern, computer forensics was much known for data dumps. The procedure was too hard and slow because all of the keystrokes were to be printed out in eight digits. However, those digits were all zeroes and then ones. The materials used in printing out the data were cases of paper.

Needless to say, the systems analysts were required to convert the information into hex and then to translate their values into the actual information keystroke. The entire procedure permitted the investigators to go through all of the information at hand and specify at which point did the program and the computer system packed up.

In the olden days, computer forensics had gone through a variety of ups and downs. But of course, it is important to note that those are the things of the past. Nowadays, the said field has a brighter future ahead of it. In fact, computer forensics investigation is the known way of providing an in-depth examination to solve series of crimes and other deceitful actions.

Indeed, the computer language still ranges from the zeros to ones or those hex and binary but these days, everything is already being upgraded. The same thing goes around with the process of computer forensics investigation. The developers of the tools are keeping up with the competition. For now, computer forensics investigators are able to retrieve any wiped off data.

These specialists are the people who are capable of reconstructing the lost data either they have been intentionally or accidentally erased from the computer’s hard drive. They are moreover overly familiar with the science of computer forensics and the construction of digital technology.

Computer forensics investigation digs deeper into all electronic files. You can trust the investigators to collect and examine the data from the emails, chat histories, and other communications done using the computer.

The military, law enforcement, and other intelligence companies are making use of this field in uncovering whatever evidence may be used to file for a legal action before the court of law. This is very significant especially now that many crimes remain unsolved.