The Little Geeni

The field of Computer Forensic work is very closely associated with data recovery from data storage media such as USB pens and hard disk drives. However there is a lot of information that is not stored on a data disk but is in fact stored on data tapes. In fact throughout the world the largest amount of data is stored on data tapes. Therefore is this kind of information and its storage facility any use to those in the computer forensic field?

Most of us are aware that the hard disk drive of a computer holds the most current information available as well as a variety of other forensically valuable data such as local temporary files and internet history records. So if you have the hard disk drive is there any reason to look at backup data tapes?

With computer forensic work there is often a background investigation conducted meaning that it is preferable that the less people that are involved is the choice to conduct the investigation. Where there is the ability to use data that is from a tape archive it is often a way to carry out an investigation more discretely and does not require that entire systems must be seized. When it is possible to locate data backup tapes this is an option to conduct an investigation or audit with the potential to do so without alerting those being investigated or audited.

With an audit for example the disruption spreads further than that business or person being audited and raises fear in others and being able to covertly carry out the data analysis, prior to any investigative results, reduces any stress or loss of morale of others who are not perhaps directly involved.

Data in local systems comes and goes and can often be replaced, especially where this is the intention of the business or person being investigated. Back up data information provides a snap-shot of a system or systems and therefore provides a historical record. Therefore if there is an attempt to remove information from a local system and that information was previously stored on a back up system then that information will be able to be recovered within the backup data tape.

Those who specialize in this form of investigation will work back through the backup data tapes and can therefore gain a greater insight into any system abuse or illegal behavior that may have taken place. Unless the person who is attempting to erase information has a great knowledge of the system and erasure techniques then the information that is being sought, if it in fact exists, should be located within the backup infrastructure.

Those conducting the investigation of the data must have knowledge of the backup infrastructure itself. There is likely to be a significant amount of information stored within backup tapes so knowledge of how to process this information to reduce the search time requirements is a key factor. This is especially important relating to cost factors as well as man-power and time to conduct any investigation or audit.

As an example, if there are 3000 tapes that require 3 hours each to read completely and you could use 10 systems with 80% operating time this would mean the required time to read the 3000 tapes would be approximately 50 days. This does not take into account the requirement to actually analyze and organize the data itself.

In these cases a pre-scanning system for the specific type of tape and system is required to reduce the actual time for identification of the data on each of the tapes. When this is effectively carried out the time can be reduced from 3 hours per tape down to approximately 15 minutes per tape. That therefore reduces the time period from 50 days to around 4 days for the reading of the data.

The point being that while the data tapes hold the information required a suitable system must be available to sort and categorize the information to eliminate irrelevant data and only leave those investigating the tapes the information that they require to complete a more thorough analysis of the relevant facts.

There are a great many factors in computer forensic analysis and there are no standard systems that will apply to all data tapes. A great understanding of the system and where the data may be stored is generally the first step in the investigation, after retrieval of the data tapes. This information is of course beneficial to those being investigated as well as those who wish to have some investigation completed. There is a great deal of information available about the abilities of computer forensics and if this is something that interests you it is suggested you yourself “dig a little deeper” into your particular angle of computer forensics. .

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Computer forensics is an exciting and important field that puts those who seek such careers with great chances as it’s a job that always on high demand. More often than not, those who hold this career have received the right amount of training and obtained sufficient training through degree programs and so on. If you’re one who’s interested in learning about this field but don’t have the time, finances or such to learn it thoroughly, you can actually learn it on your own.

Before plunging in the big stuff, learn the basics first. Hit the books in your local library or go online and see what computer forensics is all about. Once you get the fundamentals of it all, only then can you fully make use of all that’s to come your way. With a stable internet connection, you would need to download a computer forensics software that has got the full works of it all and at zero cost too. if you’re unsure about what to download, you could check the Open Source Forensics online too.

Play around with the software and download instructions if you need them. It would work best if you create a virtual machine and apply your knowledge to that, trying different methods and using different tools. You can use the virtual machine to test out all that you’ve learn too.

Once you think you understand it all, look for an online training programs and take your skills to the next level. There are quite a number available for free but what you can learn from it is limited. If you can afford to spend a little, look into packages you can buy and you’d be able to learn a lot more from there. Besides that, you can also learn it from books and magazines, so spend some time at your local library. If you’re really enthusiastic about it, buy a few textbooks too.

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All of us live in a planet in which computer offenses are common occurrence, and the alarming rates of criminal activity on IT systems has resulted in a greater demand for professionals within the field of computer forensics. If we all were to analyze the career growth during the last five years, we would find no other occupation with better prospects than pc forensics.

That is why a lot of educational institutions are creating special programs for pc forensics education so that more people can be able to work and collect legal evidence to be used in court against hackers, and thus help with the protection of company property and the preservation of good company reputation.

You will find very many types of courses included in the category of personal computer forensics education; they train students how to recuperate erased files, encrypted or deliberately hidden data, but additionally show trainees the darker side of computer systems. Illicit activities leave several footprints on personal computer hard discs, and their recuperation is often a challenging process that requires special skills and specific forensics tools.

Depending on the program, the educational institution and also the objective of the classes, the length of personal computer forensics training may even take years. Graduating from such programs is just as challenging as being admitted for them.

The admittance demands differ from case to case, since not every computer forensics training programs share the same specificity. While for certain cases, understanding of the Windows Operating System is enough, for others, really specialized pc education is required.

You shouldn’t be amazed if a personal computer science diploma is necessary for advanced computer forensics training. In case you have knowledge about info security or you have worked as a network or Windows administrator, you may also be entitled to certain degrees of instruction. Some pc forensics training programs even provide toolkits at the completion of the programs for those who get certification.

Because of this someone who receives certification, is in fact sanctioned to do forensic research that are admitted in courts of law. The custom personal computer forensics education can be a great occupation having a great income.

In a wider picture, graduates from academic computer forensics training frequently obtain work in national businesses that cover nationwide data security issues at various levels of intelligence. Exactly what needs to be mentioned here is that only the best of the best get in such jobs, and the road up there is absolutely made with challenges and tons of effort.

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A computer forensics specialist is a person who is an expert in recovering lost technological data without disrupting or tampering with the device. It takes a whole lot of skills and patience to get back deleted or corrupted data from hard drives, cell phones, and computers and so on. What a specialist does is put his knowledge to work and apply his skills into revering what is necessary to help the police department in solving cyber crimes and such. If you’ve always found such work to be exciting or appealing, then here’s a simple guide on how to become a computer forensics specialist.

First, get an education. You would need to obtain you degree in computer forensics and work your way on from there. You could also just get a degree in accounting or computer science and learn your hands on skills through working in the field and picking up tips along the way. If you want, once you’ve gotten your degree, you could obtain a certificate in computer forensics to increase the chances of job opportunity.

Next, once you step into the working world, don’t go for the big things straight away but start small and gain all the experience you can. Seek jobs at law enforcement sectors such as police departments and those alike as they’ve got a huge computer database that require your specialty to keep it well organized. Once you think you’re ready to venture out for bigger things, look up your national computer forensics industry and start your career there. With enough confidence, you could start your own company and provide service to the government to help solve cyber crimes and so on.

All in all, you can make it big if you try. Don’t chase your big dreams right away as you would always need to start from some ground work. You may think that the small jobs are too small for you, but the hands on experience gives you great exposure and will increase your confidence in your own work as well. So go on out and start your journey to your career.

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Computer Forensics is a rapidly expanding field that focuses on using emerging technology to recover digital data. As an emerging career field, there is a wide variety of formal education and certifications provided by colleges, universities and technical schools which cover all sorts of computer forensics training. In general, the programs offered are computer forensics certificates, degree programs as well as related skill enhancement training programs. All these particular courses can be obtained through both online and offline.

First of all, let’s look at the formal academic qualification offered. Most bachelor’s degree programs focus on software engineering and computer science. These programs are leading you to become a computer forensics specialist or expert. For those existing specialists, they can further their study by pursuing master degree programs in both the computer security and law enforcement fields. The programs offered focus more on the technical tools for fraud analysis and data recovery.

On the other hand, there are many related certifications available in the market. These certifications are based upon passing an exam rather than attending any specific set of courses. Currently, among all the certifications, the most common certifications are Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) and Certified Forensics Analyst (GCFA). However, Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP) is the most recognized in the job market. All these credentials may help in obtaining a career advancement in this unique field.

Besides formal education and certifications, there are also some hands-on training programs provided in the market. By participating in these training programs, you are able to learn how to create effective computer crime policy and how to utilize computer forensics tools and manual techniques through hands-on practice. The training programs are important in enhancing and sharpening your skills with latest technology.

The demand for computer forensics in the job market is high. If you have a strong interest and skills in ICT and criminal justice, you can be one of the ideal candidates for this special career.

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To be qualified as a computer forensics manager, one needs full knowledge of computer forensic tools, methodologies and protocols. He or she must also have strong and progressive experience in computer forensics and investigations. They must be responsible in planning, directing and completing projects and services in this particular field. Besides, they are also responsible in developing and managing staff.

Now, let’s take a closer look on what their main duties and responsibilities are:

• Planning, executing, directing and completing computer forensics and its related services in a wide variety of industries
• Managing the budget of the services
• Handling, directing and monitoring client services teams when multiple engagements are held t the same time
• Managing the risks on projects and proposals
• Planning, organizing and conducting a variety of computer forensic examination activities
• Managing and performing comprehensive technical analyses
• Interpreting computer related evidences by obtaining proofs through e-mails, accounting software, all sorts of databases and whatever related information stored on electronic devices
• Providing a wide range of computer forensic services, which include digital evidence preservation, analysis, data recovery, electronic mail extraction, database examination and so forth
• Providing technology advisory and consulting services to enhance forensic engagements
• Ensuring the evidence collection methods are conducted, managed and archived in a consistent manner in order to maintain preservation and protection of data and evidence
• Ensuring all lab hardware and software are verified and validated to meet the requirements set by the Federal Rules of Evidence
• Assessing and troubleshooting all types of technical issues.

The duties of computer forensics manager differ from computer forensics investigators and experts. They are playing more managerial roles and their responsibilities are more too.

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Digital Forensics Specialists are required by today’s world to determine the root cause of hackers’ attacks, protect corporate image as well its assets and collect evidence for legal proceeding. In order to be a qualified digital forensics, you need to obtain a degree qualification in computer forensics or any degree related to computer science, criminal justice or engineering.

Besides academic qualification, in order to be a qualified and competent professional, attending training courses is compulsory. At the moment, due to the high demand for digital forensics experts, there are many courses, either online or offline, offered through colleges and universities. These schools offer the most structured and hands-on learning to educate the future investigators.

Through these training programs, the candidates are exposed to all sorts of real world techniques, which include the proven investigation techniques, tracking skills, effective computer crime policy, recognition of offender, evidence handling procedures, computer forensics tools and law enforcement co-operation. The objective of pursuing the training is to help to establish all rounded digital forensics professionals.

Furthermore, the training has played an important role in preparing the candidates for industry recognized certifications. Currently, there are several digital forensics certifications in the market and they range in a variety of topics from computer crimes against children to file system recovery. The most popular ones are Certified Computer Forensics Examiner Certification, Certified Hacking Forensics Investigator Certification, Certified Electronic Evidence Collection Specialist, Certified Forensics Analyst and Certified Computer Examiner Certification.

In order to contribute yourself to cyber crime prevention, it would be ideal to obtain certification in this particular field. By gaining the certification, you are not only able to see the dark side of how computer crimes are committed; you are also able to bring the fraudsters to court.

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Forensic science colleges open the door for a career in criminal justice. If you want to follow a career in this field of activity, it would be best to start your training as early as high school with lots of classes of chemistry, physics and biology. These first steps in education have a good impact on following an academic career. The Internet makes the richest source of information on computer forensic training colleges, and you can search for these either by geographic region or by zip code. You can also request informative materials from such institutions online.

Besides universities, there are associated degree programs too, but the best way to build a solid career in criminal justice is to attend the courses of forensic science colleges that are accredited by the American Academy of Forensic Sciences and the Accreditation Commission. For BA programs, you’ll need around five years to complete the training, and if you need to continue studies for an advanced forensic specialization, two-year MA programs are available. It is important to keep in mind several aspects before choosing between the various curricula available with forensic science colleges.

First of all, the aims of certain college programs differ from case to case. It is crucial that you know where the training will lead you. This difference in focus enables forensic science colleges to educate trainees that work for the same criminal justice system, in similar, yet distinct jobs. You can get to work in a lab without being a supervisor, or you can specialize in crime scene investigation or in computer applied forensics. These are very general examples of what jobs you may want to apply for at the completion of a certain course. After graduation, depending on the programs of the forensic science colleges, you’ll enter a certain work level in forensic institutions.

For MA degree admittance special requirements are often common. And tougher competition is easy to recognize at such forensic science colleges. Thus, classes of genetics, physics, calculus, immunology, biology and biostatistics are a must among several others. Moreover, a BA is also a necessity for the admittance to the MA programs, not to mention that any experience in forensic work is considered an advantage. Extra courses may be necessary in case you lack real experience, otherwise, you will miss the support necessary for more advanced forensic programs.

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Computer Forensics, Data Recovery and E-Discovery Differ

What’s the difference between data recovery, computer forensics and e-discovery?Visit Here Now http://recovermyfilessoftware.blogspot.com

All three fields deal with data, and specifically digital data. It’s all about electrons in the form of zeroes and ones. And it’s all about taking information that may be hard to find and presenting it in a readable fashion. But even though there is overlap, the skill sets require different tools, different specializations, different work environments, and different ways of looking at things.

Data recovery generally involves things that are broken – whether hardware or software. When a computer crashes and won’t start back up, when an external hard disk, thumb drive, or memory card becomes unreadable, then data recovery may be required. Frequently, a digital device that needs its data recovered will have electronic damage, physical damage, or a combination of the two. If such is the case, hardware repair will be a big part of the data recovery process. This may involve repairing the drive’s electronics, or even replacing the stack of read / write heads inside the sealed portion of the disk drive.

If the hardware is intact, the file or partition structure is likely to be damaged. Some data recovery tools will attempt to repair partition or file structure, while others look into the damaged file structure and attempt to pull files out. Partitions and directories may be rebuilt manually with a hex editor as well, but given the size of modern disk drives and the amount of data on them, this tends to be impractical.

By and large, data recovery is a kind of “macro” process. The end result tends to be a large population of data saved without as much attention to the individual files. Data recovery jobs are often individual disk drives or other digital media that have damaged hardware or software. There are no particular industry-wide accepted standards in data recovery.

Electronic discovery usually deals with hardware and software that is intact. Challenges in e-discovery include “de-duping.” A search may be conducted through a very large volume of existing or backed-up emails and documents.

Due to the nature of computers and of email, there are likely to be very many identical duplicates (“dupes”) of various documents and emails. E-discovery tools are designed to winnow down what might otherwise be an unmanageable torrent of data to a manageable size by indexing and removal of duplicates, also known as de-duping.

E-discovery often deals with large quantities of data from undamaged hardware, and procedures fall under the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (“FRCP”).

Computer forensics has aspects of both e-discovery and data recovery.

In computer forensics, the forensic examiner (CFE) searches for and through both existing and previously existing, or deleted data. Doing this kind of e-discovery, a forensics expert sometimes deals with damaged hardware, although this is relatively uncommon. Data recovery procedures may be brought into play to recover deleted files intact. But frequently the CFE must deal with purposeful attempts to hide or destroy data that require skills outside those found in the data recovery industry.

When dealing with email, the CFE is often searching unallocated space for ambient data – data that no longer exists as a file readable to the user. This can include searching for specific words or phrases (“keyword searches”) or email addresses in unallocated space. This can include hacking Outlook files to find deleted email. This can include looking into cache or log files, or even into Internet history files for remnants of data. And of course, it often includes a search through active files for the same data.

Practices are similar when looking for specific documents supportive of a case or charge. Keyword searches are performed both on active or visible documents, and on ambient data. Keyword searches must be designed carefully. In one such case, The Schlinger Foundation v Blair Smith, et al the author, computer forensics expert Steve Burgess uncovered more than one million keyword “hits” on two disk drives.

Finally, the computer forensics expert is also often called upon to testify as an expert witness in deposition or in court. As a result, the CFE’s methods and procedures may be put under a microscope and the expert may be called upon to explain and defend his or her results and actions. A CFE who is also an expert witness may have to defend things said in court or in writings published elsewhere.

Most often, data recovery deals with one disk drive, or the data from one system. The data recovery house will have its own standards and procedures and works on reputation, not certification. Electronic discovery frequently deals with data from large numbers of systems, or from servers with that may contain many user accounts. E-discovery methods are based on proven software and hardware combinations and are best planned for far in advance (although lack of pre-planning is very common). Computer forensics may deal with one or many systems or devices, may be fairly fluid in the scope of demands and requests made, often deals with missing data, and must be defensible – and defended – in court.Visit Here Now http://recovermyfilessoftware.blogspot.com

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Computer forensics is becoming more and more prevalent in the ever increasing technological age we are living in.  Computers and mobile devices have become an integral part of our lives, checking email and sending text messages is now second-nature to most.

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.

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