Computer Forensics and Cyber Crime

Computer Forensics and Cyber Crime

Computer Forensics and Cyber Crime

Introduction

Historically, the world has experienced periods of great enlightenment and progress.

The Industrial Revolution, for example, brought unprecedented knowledge and

opportunities almost two centuries ago. This revolution, automating common tasks,

provided previously unheard of privileges and advances. Advances in transportation

increased the array of vacation destinations, enabled families to remain in contact with

distant family members, and decreased infant mortality rates as prenatal care became

more accessible in remote areas. In addition, sharp advances in communication

improved police efficiency and radically changed the courting behavior of lovers. Individuals,

families, and institutions were granted unprecedented access to luxury items

like cooling systems, and household maintenance was made easier through power

tools, yard equipment, and the like. The automation of printing and the introduction of

mass media greatly enhanced information dissemination by increasing the availability

of reliable and credible sources of knowledge. Unfortunately, it also increased levels

of physical lethargy, obesity, complacency, desensitization, child poverty, and criminal

behavior. Today, American society has experienced similar transformations as a direct

result of the Information Revolution.

The introduction of the Internet has created unparalleled opportunities for commerce,

research, education, entertainment, and public discourse. A global marketplace has

emerged, in which fresh ideas and increased appreciation for multiculturalism have

flourished.

The introduction of computerized encyclopedias, international consortia,

worldwide connectivity, and communications has greatly enhanced quality of life

for many individuals. Indeed, the Internet can be utilized as a window to the world,

allowing

individuals to satiate their curiosity and develop global consciousness.

It allows individuals

to experience those things that they have only dreamed about.

Interested parties

can visit the Louvre, devouring priceless artifacts at their leisure

or take an African safari without the heat or mosquitoes. They can find answers to

the most complex legal or medical questions or search for their soul mates. They can

download coupons for their favorite restaurants or search for recipes to their favorite

dishes. In addition, individuals,

corporations, public organizations, and institutions

can more effectively advertise their products or services, using graphically highlighted

information and providing links to supplemental information or support. In

fact, computerized

access to unprecedented information has cut across traditional

boundaries

of communication.

Like other institutions, law enforcement has also benefited. The Internet has

successfully

created a nonthreatening platform for information exchange by community

residents. In addition, the speed and efficiency has enabled agencies to communicate

with other agencies on a global scale, solidifying relationships and increasing cooperation.

Indeed, law enforcement has been able to further its mission by simply extending

the range of audiences to whom it can communicate. Textual descriptions and graphic

images of wanted suspects or missing persons can be viewed by anyone with an Internet

connection, and concerned citizens can report suspicious activity in an efficient and

effective

manner. However, the Internet and the increasing reliance on digital technology

and communications have also had negative repercussions—creating seemingly

insurmountable obstacles for law enforcement. Indeed, the same technology that allows

access to favorite recipes from Madagascar can be utilized to download blueprints for

weapons of mass destruction. Those same individuals

surfing

the Web for vacation specials

can stalk and harass targeted victims

while enjoying the fruits of such searches.

Indeed, the very advantages that make the Internet, wireless

technologies, and smart

phones so attractive are often the same that pose the greatest risk

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