This expanded use of computers, mobile phones and pda’s has lead to a large rise in the amount of electronic data that now exists. Social networking sites such as Facebook and Twiiter encourage the sharing of this information with friends in the real world as well as friends who are purely online acquaintances. Often it is the sharing of unauthorised data and where it is being downloaded to that causes issues.
Not all data that is shared over the Internet is completely innocent. Unfortunately the convenience of emails and downlaodable content for the general public also means that it is convenient for criminals.
As an arm of forensic science, computer forensics involves the analysis of electronic data that is stored on a computer or computer network. Computer forensic experts will usually examine such data often as part of a criminal investigation, to find out more details about a particular crime.
Often computer system investigations involve seizing the suspected machines and anlaysing their usage profiles, scanning their hard drives and a multiple of advanced techniques that can restore data that will have been ‘deleted’ by the user.
In recent times computer forensics is known to have been employed effectively to provide intelligence information to help prevent terrorist activities, to identify data theft by employees and to convict criminals who have stored illegal material on their computers.
Conversely, computer forensics can also prove the innoncence of anyone suspected of illegal activity. Like any other branch of forensic science, computer forensic experts will often be able to help make so-called ‘fuzzy’ pictures clearer and by providing a high level of evidence that is accurate and can be relied upon in court.