Computer Forensic Investigation Process (CISSP Free by Skillset.com)

Summary

This module on computer forensic investigation outlines the critical steps involved in the forensic process, from determining the need for an investigation to collecting and analyzing evidence. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a chain of custody and adhering to legal protocols to ensure evidence integrity. The presentation covers best practices for documentation, the use of forensic tools, and the role of expert witnesses in court. By following established methodologies and thoroughly documenting each phase, forensic investigators can effectively gather insights and contribute to legal proceedings, making the content essential for anyone interested in digital forensics.

Takeaways

• 😀 An investigation is only warranted for certain incidents, such as those not caused by accidents or natural disasters.
• 😀 It's crucial to select investigators with the proper training and experience for conducting forensic investigations.
• 😀 Items of interest for evidence collection can include computers, mobile devices, and information stored on networks or in the cloud.
• 😀 Maintaining the chain of custody is essential to ensure evidence is admissible in court, requiring legal collection methods.
• 😀 Documentation of the investigation process and findings is vital for potential court proceedings.
• 😀 Forensic copies of original evidence should be made to prevent damage during analysis.
• 😀 The investigation report should detail findings, investigative steps, and recommendations for future improvements.
• 😀 Expert witnesses may be required to testify in court, needing to present technical findings in an understandable manner.
• 😀 Following the order of volatility is important when collecting evidence, starting with the most volatile data.
• 😀 Adhering to best practices and guidelines from organizations like NIST is crucial for conducting effective forensic investigations.

Q & A

What is the first step in the computer forensic investigation process?

The first step is to determine whether an investigation is necessary, considering if the incident was accidental or caused by a natural disaster.

Why is it important to select an experienced investigator?

Selecting an investigator with training and experience is crucial for effectively conducting a forensic investigation and ensuring the integrity of the evidence collected.

What types of evidence might be collected during a forensic investigation?

Evidence can include laptops, desktop computers, tablets, cell phones, USB drives, network server data, cloud storage information, and social media profiles.

What does maintaining the chain of custody entail?

Maintaining the chain of custody means ensuring control of the evidence from the time it is collected until it is presented in court, preventing tampering.

What are the implications of collecting evidence illegally?

If evidence is collected illegally, it is likely to be deemed inadmissible in court, compromising the investigation.

What is the order of volatility in evidence collection?

The order of volatility dictates that the most volatile evidence should be collected first, such as data in RAM, to prevent loss of critical information.

What is the purpose of a forensic analysis report?

The forensic analysis report documents findings and investigative steps, providing evidence for legal proceedings and potentially serving as expert testimony.

Why is documentation critical in computer forensics?

Documentation is essential to maintain a record of the evidence seizure, storage, transfer, and analysis, ensuring accountability and supporting the admissibility of evidence in court.

What role do expert witnesses play in court?

Expert witnesses provide their opinions in court based on their training and experience in a specific area, helping to clarify technical aspects of the evidence.

What organizations provide best practices for computer forensics?

The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Scientific Working Group on Digital Evidence (SWGDE) are key organizations that provide guidelines and best practices for computer forensics.