The Evolution and Enduring Necessity of Digital Forensics in a Connected World
Introduction to Digital Forensics: Definition and Foundational Principles Digital forensics, a specialized branch of forensic science, is dedicated to the retrieval, secure storage, and meticulous analysis of electronic data that holds relevance in criminal investigations. 1 This encompasses a broad spectrum of digital information sourced from various devices, including but not limited to computers, hard drives, mobile phones, and other data storage systems. 1 Fundamentally, it involves the systematic application of scientific principles and technical methodologies to analyze digital evidence, with the overarching aim of preserving the integrity of any evidence in its most original state while conducting a structured investigation to accurately reconstruct past events. 2 The field's very nature is interdisciplinary, requiring a synthesis of technical, scientific, and investigative elements. This necessitates a diverse and specialized skill set for practitioners, highlighting the ...