List the benefits of computer forensics to Law Enforcement and the public.

Week 10 the class will discuss cyber-crime investigations.

Encryption or coding is the process utilized legally by a banking institution

to protect personal information and data. Encryption may also be used

illegally by an illegal drug organization to mask their cyber transmissions

from law enforcement investigators.

Computer Forensics is defined as an “emerging discipline” which

allows law enforcement officers to investigate illegal activities in computer-

related cases. However, like traditional criminal investigations officers in

cyber-crime investigations must also adhere to the Constitutional and legal

mandates. Also, the chain of evidence must be utilized when computer

evidence is seized. In cyber-crime investigations a minimum hardware

requirement is necessary for the processing of cyber evidence in the

laboratory setting. Additionally, because of rapidly changing technology

some laboratory equipment will become outdated and newer equipment

must be purchased.

As discussed in Week One law enforcement investigations involving

cyber issues are impacted by several problematic issues. In many law

enforcement organizations cyber-crime is not a priority. Also, a large

percentage of police investigators lack advanced cyber-training needed to

conduct quality investigations. Additionally, the financial drain on police

budgets for investigative computer equipment results in needed equipment

not being purchased when needed. Other issues include a lack of

communication between law enforcement organizations and a lack of

reporting computer crimes in general by business personnel and other

affected individuals.