Computer Forensics

Computer Forensics now aid in solving crimes

We now live in a digital age where the computer permeates almost every aspect of our lives. Almost all transactions and records of our activities are now recorded electronically. Unfortunately, the digital era has also ushered in an age of digital crime.

Computer forensics involves searching computers for evidence of crime and also for evidence in traditional crimes. Some examples of cybercrime include hacking, releasing viruses and various internet scams such as phishing or spoofing of real web sites.

The specialists who uncover digital evidence of criminal activity and assists in presenting evidence are called Computer Forensics specialists or Computer Forensic examiners. The Forensic Specialist

Insurance companies: Forensic Specialists may be used to uncover evidence of false accident, workman`s compensation claims and arson.

Corporations: Forensics specialists are hired to search employee computers for records of sexual harassment,embezzlement or theft of trade secrets.

Employees may also hire forensic examiners to support claims of wrongful dismissal or age discrimination.

Computer Forensics is quite different from other forensics disciplines, and knowledge of other fields are often required. In addition to being impartial, a computer forensic examiner will typically have a wide range of experience with various types of hardware and software. The specialist should also have the required skill to search a computer thoroughly enough to access deleted, encrypted and password protected files and other forms of hidden evidence. Additionally, the forensic examiner should be familiar with hardware architecture to know where on the computer to look for the most relevant data. In addition, since most computers are networked in industrial environments, the specialist should also have knowledge of network