SEU_CS663_Module01_PPT_Ch01

Introduction to System Forensics

  • Overview of the course focused on forensics applied to digital systems.

  • Emphasis on the legal aspects and methodologies involved.

Learning Objectives

  • Summarize basic principles of computer forensics.

  • Understand and summarize important laws regarding computer forensics.

Key Concepts

  • Chain of Custody: A critical aspect to ensure the integrity and reliability of evidence.

  • Forensic Knowledge: Understanding of hardware and networking principles as they apply to forensics.

  • Legal Framework: Awareness of laws that govern computer forensics.

What Is Computer Forensics?

  • Definition: A subset of forensics that leverages science and technology to investigate facts in court.

  • Focus: Pertains to extracting and analyzing data from electronic devices.

  • Objective: To recover, analyze, and present computer-based evidence.

Digital Forensics Overview

  • Broader Definition: Encompasses all forms of digital data recovery, including smartphones, GPS devices, and tablets.

  • Interchangeability: Computer forensics and digital forensics are often used interchangeably.

  • Domains: Applies to various sectors within typical IT infrastructures.

Scientific Knowledge Applied in Forensics

  • Scientific Methodology: The application of rigorous scientific methods in forensics.

  • Essential Knowledge: Requires familiarity with scientific disciplines related to computing.

  • Foundation: A solid grasp of computer hardware is imperative for effective forensic investigations.

Forensic Process

  • Phases:

    • Collecting: Ensuring the correct handling and documentation of evidence.

    • Analyzing: Thorough examination and interpretation of data.

    • Presenting: Reporting findings in a clear and legally acceptable format.

Collecting Evidence

  • Importance of maintaining the chain of custody from the moment of evidence acquisition to court presentation.

  • Prohibited actions include directly handling the suspect drive; instead, create forensic copies.

  • Necessity for a detailed documentation trail and securing evidence.

Analyzing Evidence

  • Detailed examination of data to extract meaningful information.

  • Inquisition into implications of each piece of evidence and alternative interpretations.

Presenting Evidence

  • Preparation of expert reports detailing tests, findings, and conclusions.

  • The act of testifying as an expert witness in legal contexts.

Field of Digital Forensics

  • Involves the processing of data to extract it for investigative relevance.

  • Only data that supports a specific finding is considered evidence.

Users and Applications of Computer Forensics

  • Various entities utilize computer forensics, including:

    • Military

    • Government agencies

    • Law firms and criminal prosecutors

    • Academia

    • Data recovery firms and corporations

    • Insurance companies and individuals.

Understanding Digital Evidence

  • Defined as information assembled to support legal inquiries.

  • Raw data by itself is not deemed evidence unless relevant to investigations.

Types of Evidence in Forensics

  • Real Evidence: Physical objects presented in court.

  • Documentary Evidence: Written documents pertinent to the case.

  • Testimonial Evidence: Witness statements.

  • Demonstrative Evidence: Visual aids to illustrate points during trials.

Challenges in Digital Forensics

  • Navigating large volumes of data and complex systems.

  • Addressing dynamic crime scenes and a growing number of cases with limited resources.

Types of Digital Forensic Analysis

  • Different categories include:

    • Physical storage media

    • Email forensic analysis

    • Network and internet investigations

    • Analysis of live systems and mobile devices.

General Guidelines for Forensics

  • Always maintain the chain of custody during evidence handling.

  • Do not manipulate the original suspect drive; always work with copies.

  • Keep thorough documentation regarding the handling of evidence.

  • Secure all pieces of evidence against unauthorized access.

Essential Knowledge for Forensics

  • Deep understanding required in areas such as:

    • Computer hardware and storage solutions.

    • Software used in investigations, including operating systems.

    • Networking fundamentals and protocols.

    • Familiarization with addressing methods (MAC & IP addresses).

Addressing in Networking

  • Understanding physical ports, MAC addresses, IP addresses (like IPv4 examples).

  • Detailed knowledge of port numbers and URLs needed for investigations.

Networking Utilities

  • Tools and commands used in forensics include:

    • ipconfig: Displays network configuration details.

    • ping: Tests communication to a network host.

    • tracert: Traces the path data takes to a network destination.

Obscured Information and Anti-Forensics

  • Obscured Information: Techniques like encryption or steganography used to hide data.

  • Anti-Forensics: Tactics used to conceal the identity and behavior of cybercriminals, including the use of anonymous services.

The Daubert Standard

  • Legal precedent determining admissibility of expert testimony based on scientific methodologies.

  • Requirements include empirical testing and peer review of scientific evidence.

Important Laws in Digital Forensics

  • Overview of significant laws affecting digital forensics, including but not limited to:

    • Federal Privacy Act of 1974

    • Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986

    • USA Patriot Act of 2001

    • 18 U.S.C. § 1030: Regarding fraud related to computer activities.

Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act (CALEA)

  • Establishes federal wiretap regulations, extending to modern communication technologies.

Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA)

  • Governs surveillance and collection of foreign intelligence information.

Child Protection and Sexual Predator Punishment Act

  • Mandates reporting of child pornography incidents to law enforcement.

Wireless Communications and Public Safety Act

  • Allows for the use of nonverbal communications data in law enforcement.

The USA Patriot Act

  • Covers wide-ranging Internet and communications data collection.

  • Contains provisions for protecting U.S. citizens' identities and privacy.

Legal Framework: Warrants and the Fourth Amendment

  • Importance of understanding search and seizure laws.

  • Relevant implications of the Fourth Amendment on privacy expectations.

Federal Guidelines in Forensic Investigations

  • Guidelines issued by institutions like the FBI and the Secret Service regarding forensic processes.

Summary of Key Concepts

  • Recap of essential discussions including the chain of custody, the forensic process, types of evidence, and the legal framework surrounding digital forensics.