From Computing… to Digital Investigations
23/10/2023
The Digital Element
Those in the field of digital forensics are often tasked with examining digital devices and their data as part of any alleged incident. It is estimated that more than 90% of reported crime now has a digital element (UK statistics), and those involved in criminal investigations must now be able to understand the role that any technology has played. The role could range from a need to examine common device types like mobile phones and computers, to more bespoke technologies such as smart alarm systems and vehicle telematics.
Those in digital forensics are constantly tasked with learning how things work and often faced with the challenge of solving technology-orientated problems by exploring devices that they may have never seen or used before. With this in mind, just what skills do those seeking to enter this domain as a career need to have, and where do they come from?
Digital Traces
Those studying computer science and related technology and computing disciplines are very well positioned to succeed in the field of digital forensics and cyber investigation. The fundamental subjects covered in these syllabuses and the knowledge and skills that are subsequently acquired provide a solid foundation from which most digital forensic examinations are built.
All digital forensic examinations start with a need to determine how any technology subject to an investigation works and how any of its functionality and services operate in order to identify and interpret any digital traces left as a result of it being used. Those with underpinning knowledge of computing science principles and practices can begin to determine the inner workings of any technology or service and evaluate how this information can be used as part of any investigation.
Digital Detectives?
A digital forensic practitioner could be considered a ‘digital detective’ or ‘digital spy’, with a need for excellent investigative skills in order to seek to answer the ‘whos’, ‘whats’ ‘wheres’, ‘whens’ and ‘hows’ in relation to any given incident. To do this successfully, first requires strong computing and technology skills and knowledge, with those having undergraduate degrees in such fields very well placed to succeed in a career as a digital forensic practitioner.
Where can you expect to work?
If you do move into the digital forensic field, where can you expect to work? Whilst it may feel like working in policing environments is a natural pathway, it is far from the only one. The following is a list of potential organisations where digital forensic practitioners may, and do work:
- Health care providers.
- Government organisations.
- Social media companies.
- Private sector companies.
- TV/cable providers.
- Airlines.
- Supermarkets.
- Graduate schemes.
- Academic teaching, research and training.
- Law enforcement.
- Google, Apple, Facebook, Amazon, Microsoft.
- Visa.
- Warner Bros.
Funding Support:
If you’re interested in pursuing a Digital Forensics MSc with Cranfield University, the CCL Future of Digital Forensic Science Scholarship may be just what you need to start your journey.
Categories & Tags:
Leave a comment on this post:
You might also like…
Changes to FitchConnect…
Those of you who have been using FitchConnect may have noticed that things are changing. The BMI content we subscribe to being migrated to its own platform. In the meantime, when you login to Fitch, ...
Love in the first degree – Management MSc students plan to get married!
After meeting at Cranfield whilst studying Management MSc, Isabel and Vatsal share their fond memories of Cranfield and what the future holds. Tell us about yourself Isabel: My name is Isabel Hamm and I'm originally ...
Our Cardiff study tour – an incredible experience that goes beyond academic learning
My name is Hyelni David Malgwi, originally from Nigeria. I am currently pursuing a master’s in Logistics and Supply Chain Management. I recently had the fantastic opportunity to participate in a study tour to Cardiff, ...
Air Transport Management MSc student Quentin Lacoste on studying at Cranfield and his exciting new job role
Quentin Lacoste is studying for an MSc in Air Transport Management (ATM). Here, he talks about his journey to Cranfield, his experience on the course, and his exciting new job offer. ...
Advancing Uncrewed Aerial Systems: My Journey at Cranfield University
Cranfield University has offered me countless opportunities in the short time I have been here, and I am committed to making the most of them. As an expert in drones and ...
How we’re helping the UK take back control of time
Our lives run on the supply of an invisible utility: accurate time. Starting with the morning alarm on our smartphone, it’s the basis of the everyday information we rely on for travel schedules, journey ...