Computer Crime Investigation and Computer Forensics

Incidents of computer-related crime and telecommunications fraud have increased dramatically over the past decade. However, because of the esoteric nature of this crime, there have been very few prosecutions and even fewer convictions. The new technology that has allowed for the advancement and automation of many business processes has also opened the door to many new forms of computer abuse. Although some of these system attacks merely use contemporary methods to commit older, more familiar types of crime, others involve the use of completely new forms of criminal activity that evolved along with the technology. Computer crime investigation and computer forensics are also evolving sciences that are affected by many external factors, such as continued advancements in technology, societal issues, and legal issues. Many gray areas need to be sorted out and tested through the courts. Until then, the system attackers will have an advantage, and computer abuse will continue to increase. Computer security practitioners must be aware of the myriad technological and legal issues that affect systems and users, including issues dealing with investigations and enforcement.