Do you think you are protected from cyber threats when you surf the Internet or use your electronic devices? In the digital world in which we find ourselves, there are more and more connected devices and better communication options at our fingertips. But, as technological advances proliferate, so do new ways for us to be attacked.
And, of all the measures that exist today in the field of cybersecurity, computer forensics has positioned itself as one of the most effective solutions for solving cybercrime, which, according to the latest published studies, continues to increase.
Thus, a report published in Cybersecurity Ventures, warns that during 2023 there was a cyber attack every 39 seconds (2,200 per day), while in 2022, this type of crime occurred every 44 seconds. This increase in cyber-attacks is one of the main concerns of companies and also of professionals in the sector, who have to face increasingly sophisticated threats.
Advances in artificial intelligence have also made it possible for cybercriminals to perfect their techniques by simulating the voice of acquaintances, by ‘vishing’ or by developing new attacks via SMS and WhatsApp. But, cybersecurity experts are not standing idly by and have found in digital forensics a great ally.
What is computer forensics in cybersecurity?
Computer forensics is a doctrine that deals with the identification, preservation, recovery and analysis of digital data on computing devices such as computers, smartphones, hard drives, USB sticks and also in the network and cloud environments.
Just as it happens in the police field when there is a homicide and the forensic doctor finds out the causes of death, the objective of the digital forensic analysis expert is to find proof or evidence that can be used in the investigation of computer crimes such as malware’ or ‘ransonware’ attacks data theft or fraud.
Cybersecurity and computer forensics are two disciplines that work together to protect organizations and users from online threats. And, while the former is responsible for preventing attacks and protecting computer systems, the latter deals with investigating incidents that have managed to breach security and determine what has happened, who is responsible and how this crime has occurred.
The importance of digital forensic analytics experts
In order to clarify an incident in the field of cybersecurity, it is necessary to have experts in computer forensics. These professionals know what means to use and what strategies to follow to investigate and find digital evidence to provide clues about the attack and thus identify the offender.
Depending on the device or system affected, these specialists will use different techniques to examine the electronic data without altering or damaging them. In addition, this task must be carried out in a controlled and protected environment to ensure the integrity of the information and avoid its contamination.
Phases of a cybersecurity forensic analysis
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Computer forensic analysis follows a structured process consisting of different interrelated stages.
- Initial preparation. Study of the crime scene and preservation of the evidence found so that it is not altered.
- Acquisition of evidence. All sensitive information, such as log files or events, is collected and the data to be analyzed is backed up. If necessary, interviews are also held with those responsible for the affected devices or systems.
- Detailed analysis. All copied information is thoroughly evaluated for evidence, using various tools and techniques to help reconstruct the facts.
- Documentation and recording. The findings and resources used are documented in a detailed report, which can be used as evidence in legal proceedings or internal company investigations.
- Final presentation. The final report is delivered in clear and simple language, with the end reader in mind. In addition to the conclusions of the investigation, corrective or preventive measures to avoid such crimes in the future are also attached.
How computer forensics helps companies
In addition to determining the cause of the incident, the extent of the damage and identifying those responsible, a computer forensic analysis is a valuable resource for companies for the following reasons:
- It can recover data that has been deleted or damaged as a result of the incident.
- Ithelps protect confidential information that has been compromised.
- It reducesthe downtime of the company’s computer systems by identifying the cause of the event and the measures to solve it.
- Improves the company’s image with customers and suppliers by demonstrating that it is taking the necessary steps to protect their information.
- Helps the company comply with regulations requiring the protection of personal data.
- Prevents the entity from future attacks.
How to protect yourself from cyber threats
Thanks to these forensic analyses, cybersecurity experts can develop tools that help us defend ourselves from different threats when using our connected devices or accessing our online services.
One such solution is Latch, a free application that protects users and businesses from cyber threats by detecting and preventing attacks in real time by monitoring the behavior of the operating system in question and identifying anomalous patterns.
To achieve this, Latch is based on a series of machine learning that allow it to adapt to new threats and improve its detection capabilities in the future.
Do you want to protect your digital life or your business?
