It wouldn’t be wrong to consider technology as an important catalyst that has been a critical part of every sector’s development. And the forensic department is no such exception.
Thanks to technology, professionals now have the opportunity to speed up the investigation process and help the criminal justice system with its findings.
In this article, we are going to explain what cyber forensics is and how it has been a helping hand for law enforcement bodies. Follow along to get a sneak peek into cyber forensics.
What is it?
Cyber forensics or digital forensics is all about investigating and gathering evidence from technical devices. The process involves identifying, extracting, and documenting the evidence found in digital devices that can be used as legit proof in the court.
Cyber forensics analysts use advanced Digital Forensics Tool to investigate the suspect’s involvement in a particular case. They also monitor the degree of illegal network intrusion.
How is it acting as a helping hand for the law?
When it comes to the civil and criminal justice system, cyber forensics or digital forensics play a vital role in ensuring the integrity of every digital evidence that has been presented in court cases.
Not only this but digital devices such as computers and smartphones are considered as an integral part of the investigation process. And the data extracted from these devices can come in handy in solving crimes.
With the help of digital evidence, forensic analysts can not only solve crimes related to data theft or illicit online transactions but can also help solve cases such as murder, hit-and-run accidents, and burglary.
The whole cyber forensics procedure at a glance
Although the investigators follow a standard procedure with cyber forensics, the steps may vary depending upon the type of case they are investigating.
Ideally, the cyber forensics procedure involves the steps that are mentioned below. Read on to know more about them.
Data extraction and collection stage: According to forensic experts, information that is electronically stored needs to be extracted in a way that ends up upholding its integrity. This involves isolating the device that ensures that it doesn’t get accidentally contaminated or tampered with.
The examiners then create a digital copy that is also known as a forensic image, including its media files. The original device is then locked in order to maintain its pristine condition. The professionals may also use digital forensics tools to extract data from mobile devices to confirm a suspect’s involvement in the case.
Analysis stage: After the forensics analysts have inspected the electronic devices and have sufficient data on their hands, it’s time to analyze it in a sterile environment. Various tools and software are used to study and decode the data so that it can be proved as authentic evidence in court.
Presentation stage: In this stage, the analysts prepare their findings to present in legal proceedings. The jury uses and analyzes the evidence while determining the result of the lawsuit.
To sum it all up,
Cyber forensics is a complex process, and staying abreast of the latest trends is the only thing that can help forensic experts stay a step ahead of the game. In simple terms, cyber forensics can be termed as a forefront for the investigators that can be used to solve cases quickly and efficiently.