Digital Forensics - Computer Crime Investigation

Digital Forensics - Computer Crime Investigation

Advanced digital forensics techniques and computer crime investigation methods

CYSE635 ODU Graduate

Digital Forensics - Computer Crime Investigation

Advanced graduate course in digital forensics methodology, evidence handling, and computer crime investigation techniques.

Course Objectives

This comprehensive course covered:

  • Forensic Methodology: Systematic approach to digital evidence
  • Tool Proficiency: Industry-standard forensic software and hardware
  • Legal Framework: Evidence admissibility and chain of custody
  • Case Analysis: Real-world digital crime scenarios

Final Evidence Report

Comprehensive digital forensics investigation demonstrating professional-level analysis and reporting skills.

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Investigation Methodology

Phase 1: Evidence Acquisition

  • Physical Imaging: Bit-for-bit disk duplication
  • Logical Acquisition: Targeted file system analysis
  • Network Capture: Live traffic analysis and packet inspection
  • Mobile Devices: iOS and Android forensic extraction

Phase 2: Analysis and Recovery

  • File System Analysis: Deleted file recovery and timeline reconstruction
  • Registry Analysis: Windows system configuration and user activity
  • Memory Forensics: RAM analysis for volatile data recovery
  • Metadata Extraction: Hidden information in documents and media

Phase 3: Documentation and Reporting

  • Chain of Custody: Legal evidence handling procedures
  • Technical Analysis: Detailed findings and methodologies
  • Executive Summary: Non-technical stakeholder communication
  • Court Testimony: Expert witness preparation and presentation

Technical Tools and Techniques

Forensic Software

  • EnCase: Enterprise-level digital investigation platform
  • FTK (Forensic Toolkit): Comprehensive forensic analysis suite
  • Autopsy: Open-source digital forensics platform
  • Volatility: Advanced memory forensics framework

Specialized Hardware

  • Write Blockers: Hardware-based evidence protection
  • Forensic Workstations: High-performance analysis systems
  • Mobile Forensic Tools: Cellebrite and similar extraction devices
  • Network Taps: Live traffic monitoring equipment

Analysis Techniques

  • Timeline Analysis: Chronological event reconstruction
  • Hash Verification: Data integrity validation using MD5/SHA
  • Steganography Detection: Hidden data identification
  • Encrypted Data Recovery: Password cracking and key recovery

Professional Applications

Law Enforcement

  • Criminal investigation support and evidence analysis
  • Cybercrime detection and prosecution assistance
  • Expert witness testimony and court presentation
  • Multi-jurisdictional case coordination

Corporate Security

  • Incident response and breach investigation
  • Employee misconduct investigation
  • Intellectual property theft detection
  • Regulatory compliance and audit support
  • E-discovery and litigation support
  • Civil case evidence analysis
  • Corporate compliance verification
  • Fraud investigation and asset recovery

Professional Standards

  • IACIS Certification: International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists
  • EnCE Certification: EnCase Certified Examiner credentials
  • Continuing Education: Ongoing professional development requirements
  • Code of Ethics: Professional conduct and integrity standards
  • Fourth Amendment: Search and seizure considerations
  • Federal Rules of Evidence: Admissibility standards
  • State and Local Laws: Jurisdictional compliance requirements
  • International Treaties: Cross-border investigation protocols