Digital forensics is a forensic science that deals with examining, retrieving and interpreting material on digital devices used in cybercrimes or physical security incidents. Investigators often present electronic data as evidence in court during a criminal case. The goal of digital forensics is to preserve the digital data in its original form to recreate the events of a cyber or physical crime.
Since digital forensics involves investigating digital crimes and presenting evidence in a court of law, professionals in this field must have a combination of knowledge in legal theory and philosophy, digital literacy and forensic training. The online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) in Digital Law and Technology program from Northern Kentucky University (NKU) provides professionals with this specialized expertise. Students learn about the intersection of technology and law, data security, digital crime, identity theft, hacking, and security breaches.
Why a Combination of Skills in Digital Systems and Law Are Beneficial in Digital Forensics
While many think of digital forensics only in terms of cybersecurity, experts can retrieve digital data from smartphones, street cameras and automobiles. This digital evidence can help solve crimes committed near the devices. Different branches of digital forensics include:
- Mobile device forensics is the recovery of digital evidence from any mobile device, including phones, tablets and GPS devices.
- Computer forensics involves recovering and examining digital data with a clear chain of custody.
- Database forensics consists of examining access to a database and looking for changes made to the data.
- Network forensics involves analyzing computer network traffic to gather evidence.
- Forensic data analysis looks at structured data in databases and systems related to a financial crime.
These and similar types of digital forensics deal with discovering and preserving evidence that courts can admit and consider. Digital forensics and elements of law combine when professionals collect and analyze data to serve as evidence. Therefore, those who practice digital forensics need a solid foundation in legal practice and the laws governing data protection.
Failure to preserve and protect personal data and other types of information can make evidence inadmissible in court. Additionally, professionals who mishandle digital evidence risk criminal charges or civil penalties.
Legal Rights and Regulations in Digital Forensics
The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects against unreasonable search and seizure, and the Fifth Amendment protects against self-incrimination. Digital forensics professionals must ensure that no investigation infringes on these two rights. Violations of several laws regarding electronic communications and privacy carry federal felony charges.
The Federal Rules of Evidence govern how professionals collect and present digital evidence in cybercrime cases. Laws regarding data privacy and digital intellectual property are also evolving rapidly and vary widely across the globe. For these reasons, a digital forensic professional benefits from knowing the legal ins and outs of collecting and preserving digital data.
Building a Career at the Intersection of Cybersecurity and Law
The online MLS in Digital Law and Technology degree at NKU suits professionals in legal departments, marketing, IT data protection and government roles. This program offers specialized courses such as Digital Forensics and Law, Emerging Technologies and the Law, Legal Boundaries in the Digital Age, and Data Privacy and Security. These studies help students understand digital commerce, blockchain technology and cybersecurity risks associated with big data.
Students will also study the technology behind detecting digital crimes and the legal, ethical and societal challenges of an increasingly technology-centered world. Graduates enter the field with the knowledge and skills to navigate digital law with confidence.
Learn more about Northern Kentucky University’s online Master of Legal Studies in Digital Law and Technology program.
