Digital forensics is a specialized field within cybersecurity that deals with recovering, preserving, and analyzing data from computers, mobile devices, networks, and other digital sources for investigative purposes. It plays a vital role in law enforcement, corporate investigations, and security incident response. In the digital age, where cybercrimes are on the rise and data breaches are becoming more common, digital forensics is essential for identifying culprits, understanding how attacks occur, and ensuring justice is served.

The 312-49v10 course is structured to give students a deep understanding of the digital forensics lifecycle, including evidence collection, analysis, reporting, and presentation. The course is not only designed to teach theoretical knowledge but also emphasizes hands-on experience with industry-standard forensic tools, techniques, and methodologies.

Key Topics Covered in the Course

Digital Forensics Fundamentals

Introduction to digital forensics and its role in cybersecurity

Understanding the digital evidence lifecycle

Key terms and concepts in digital forensics, including forensic duplication, imaging, and chain of custody

Overview of the legal and ethical issues related to digital evidence handling

Forensic Data Acquisition and Preservation

Techniques for acquiring and preserving digital evidence

Types of digital evidence: computers, mobile devices, networks, cloud services, and IoT devices

Best practices for evidence collection to maintain integrity and ensure admissibility in court

Imaging and forensic duplication techniques for ensuring accurate data acquisition

Forensic Analysis

Introduction to forensic analysis tools and their capabilities

How to analyze data from different types of devices, such as hard drives, SSDs, mobile phones, and cloud services

Investigating file systems, registries, logs, and metadata to uncover hidden or deleted data

Identifying artifacts of malicious activity and tracing the steps of cybercrimes

Investigating common cybercrimes, including hacking, malware infections, and data breaches

Mobile Device Forensics

Techniques for recovering and analyzing data from smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices

Understanding mobile operating systems (iOS, Android) and their file systems

Data extraction methods, including logical and physical acquisition techniques

Analyzing mobile applications, SMS, call logs, and location data

Investigating mobile-related cybercrimes such as data theft, cyberstalking, and fraud

Network Forensics

Introduction to network forensics and packet analysis

Techniques for capturing and analyzing network traffic using tools like Wireshark

Identifying network anomalies and signs of cyberattacks such as Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) or man-in-the-middle attacks

Investigating breaches of network security and uncovering evidence from log files, firewalls, and routers

Conducting network-based cybercrime investigations, including intrusion detection and response

Forensic Reporting and Presentation

Documenting forensic findings in a clear and organized manner

Preparing reports for various stakeholders, including law enforcement, legal teams, and corporate entities

Presenting digital evidence in court and ensuring its admissibility

Best practices for preparing witnesses and providing expert testimony in legal proceedings

Ethical Considerations and Legal Aspects

Understanding the legal implications of forensic investigations, including data privacy laws and regulations

Chain of custody and how to maintain the integrity of digital evidence

Admissibility of digital evidence in court and the challenges associated with it

Ethical considerations when conducting digital forensics and balancing investigative needs with privacy concerns

Cybercrime and Incident Response

Introduction to cybercrime investigation and the role of forensic investigators in combating cybercrime

Understanding the motivations behind cybercrimes and common attack techniques used by cybercriminals

Responding to security incidents in an organization and the steps involved in a cybercrime investigation

Working with law enforcement agencies and legal professionals to ensure proper handling of digital evidence