Digital Forensics and Cybercrime
In a world that relies on technology and connects through digital platforms, cybercrime is a growing problem. This type of crime is defined by the wide range of illegal activities committed using a computer or network of connected devices, such as hacking, identity theft and ransomware attacks.
The criminals and victims of cybercrimes often cross international borders, which creates challenges for investigations and prosecutions. In addition, the lack of strict security models and protocols makes it easy for hackers to breach a system and steal sensitive information.
Cybercriminals can commit a variety of acts related to cybercrime, but they are typically motivated by profit or gain, such as stealing money or intellectual property rights, or compromising the confidentiality, integrity and availability (CIA) triad of data and systems, for example through a denial-of-service attack. They may also be motivated by anger or revenge against a person, organization or company they dislike or to make a political statement.
Because of the massive economic, social and security impacts of cyber crimes, there is a need for digital forensics and cybersecurity professionals to help track, investigate and prevent these threats. These professionals must be able to identify and analyze evidence from a variety of different sources, including mobile phone devices, computers and other electronic devices. They must also be able to follow formal investigative procedures that will ensure the results of their investigation are admissible in court, such as recording and seizing applicable items according to a chain of custody.