The Challenges Faced by Digital Forensics Investigators In An Ever-Expanding Digital Age

Abstract

With technology continuing to grow at such a fast rate, investigators are being put to the challenge of collecting and analyzing evidence that potentially contains harmful information. Some of the challenges that they face in the process are different methods of anti-forensics such as data hiding, artifact wiping, trail obfuscation, and attacks against the computer forensics tools and process. Additionally, they must be mindful of privacy and the ethics and legislation behind accessing information as it relates to the case at hand. Furthermore, investigators are challenged with the legislation across borders as it relates to the jurisdiction of evidence. Lastly, this paper discusses the challenges of finding a standard process model for investigators to follow. It concludes that even as these challenges grow, it is important to recognize that they are a consequence of advancement and so we must be vigilant, but careful as we progress to combat these challenges.