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.