APPLICATION OF DIGITAL FORENSICS IN CYBERCRIME INVESTIGATIONS: THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
Keywords:
cybercrime, investigation, digital forensics, digital evidence preservationAbstract
Crime evolves in accordance with contemporary trends, particularly those associated with technological advancements. As technology progresses, criminal activity likewise adapts, with cybercrime as a prominent illustration of this phenomenon. Given the persistent rise in cybercrime, including hacking, identity theft, and ransomware attacks, our responses must be equally robust and effective. Investigating cybercrime presents significant challenges. Despite advancements in technology, the difficulties surrounding cybercrime investigations continue to evolve. Digital forensics is a valuable tool for investigating cybercrime. The tools used in digital forensics can significantly improve the effectiveness of these investigations. Literature suggests using digital forensics methodology and tools to enhance the identification, collection, and preservation of digital evidence in cybercrime investigations, improving the accuracy and reliability of the investigations. This paper undertakes a literature review as its methodological framework to illustrate that integrating digital forensics in the investigation phase may significantly enhance the effectiveness of cybercrime investigations. The prevalence of cybercrime is a significant issue in modern society. Criminology, as a scientific discipline, must consistently and actively study the phenomenon of cybercrime. Technology is advancing at a rapid pace, making it essential to stay updated with the latest trends to effectively combat cybercriminals. The academic community recognizes digital forensics as a crucial research area. Nonetheless, a gap remains that calls for new studies focusing on the significance of thorough investigations into cybercrime. Existing literature indicates that there is no universally accepted definition of cybercrime. A common approach in defining cybercrime involves identifying the key concepts and terms relevant to cybercrime investigations. To accurately define cybercrime, literature suggests classifying it into five categories: unauthorized access to computer data and systems, unauthorized interception of data confidentiality, interference with data and systems, and computer-related forgery and fraud. Additionally, offenses such as child pornography and violations of copyright rights are considered as cybercrime. These categories collectively encapsulate the various facets of cybercrime. It is crucial to differentiate between pure cybercrime and crime facilitated by cyberspace. This paper will investigate pure cybercrime and apply digital forensics within that context. Pure cybercrime, or cyber-dependent crimes, can only be committed through computers, computer networks, and other information communication technology. This includes spreading viruses and malware, hacking, and launching distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks. It is crucial to emphasize that pure cybercrime is directed against computers and computer networks. On the other hand, cyber-enabled crimes have been increasing in recent years due to the widespread use of computers, computer networks, and other forms of information technology. Unlike pure cybercrime, which solely relies on information technology, cyber-enabled crimes can also occur without using such technology, including traditional fraud and theft. While cyber fraud and theft can be perpetrated in a digital environment, they are not inherently dependent on information technology. Investigating cybercrime is a complex task. A skilled hacker or cybercriminal is the opposite of a cybercrime investigator, which adds to the challenges of cybercrime investigation. Digital forensics refers to the practice of identifying, recovering, and analyzing electronic data in order to unveil and interpret crucial information. Its primary objective is to preserve the integrity of evidence, ensuring it remains in its original condition. This process entails a thorough and systematic investigation, which includes the collection, identification, and validation of digital information to accurately reconstruct previous events. Digital forensics has emerged as an indispensable tool in the investigation of crimes, particularly in relation to cybercrime and therefore it is very important to research application of digital forensics in cybercrime investigations.
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