What Is Cyber Forensics?

Cyber forensics, also known as digital forensics, is the practice of collecting, analyzing, and preserving digital evidence from computers, networks, and storage devices to investigate cybercrimes and security incidents. It plays a critical role in uncovering how a cyberattack occurred, identifying the perpetrators, and providing evidence that can be used in legal proceedings.

Key Processes in Cyber Forensics

Identification

Detecting and recognizing potential sources of digital evidence related to an incident.

Preservation

Securing and protecting the digital evidence to prevent alteration or tampering, maintaining the chain of custody.

Collection

Gathering data from devices such as computers, servers, mobile phones, and cloud storage in a forensically sound manner.

Examination and Analysis

Using forensic tools and techniques to recover deleted files, analyze malware, trace activities, and uncover hidden information.

Documentation

Recording all findings, methods, and procedures to maintain integrity and support legal admissibility.

Presentation

Preparing reports and presenting evidence clearly to law enforcement, legal teams, or in court.

Common Tools and Techniques

Disk imaging and cloning software (e.g., EnCase, FTK).

File recovery and data carving tools.

Network forensic analyzers and packet sniffers.

Malware analysis sandboxes.

Log file analysis and timeline reconstruction.

Encryption cracking and password recovery utilities.

Applications of Cyber Forensics

Investigating hacking incidents and data breaches.

Probing financial fraud and identity theft.

Examining cyberterrorism and espionage cases.

Supporting internal corporate investigations.

Assisting in child exploitation and online harassment cases.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Maintaining chain of custody to ensure evidence admissibility.

Respecting privacy and following laws during evidence collection.

Avoiding contamination or modification of data.

Collaborating with law enforcement agencies.

Example

Scenario:

A company suspects an employee leaked confidential data. Cyber forensic experts are called to investigate.

Steps taken:

Identified relevant computers and storage devices.

Created forensic images to preserve original data.

Analyzed file access logs and email records.

Detected unauthorized file transfers and usage of external drives.

Compiled a detailed report for legal action.

Provided testimony in court based on the forensic findings.