Computer Crime And Forensic Analysis: Provide Two Examples

Computer Crime And Forensic Analysisprovide Two Examples To Distinguis

Computer Crime and Forensic Analysis provide two examples to distinguish the difference between what is considered a computer crime and what is not. Hypothesize why a person may commit a computer crime. Evaluate computer forensic analysis procedures and techniques, and describe a forensic analysis methodology you would conduct when a forensic case had been reported. Incident Response and Compliances Give an example of a recent well-known security incident and suggest the incident response procedures that the organization followed or should have followed to mitigate risk in regard to the example cited. From the e-Activity, decide if legislation and regulations have had the intended impact on the legal and ethical issues inherent information security. Cite all sources. Responses need to be at least two paragraphs of short answers.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Computer crimes are unlawful acts that involve computers, networks, or digital information, while forensic analysis encompasses the techniques used to investigate and analyze digital evidence related to such crimes. Understanding the distinction between computer crimes and non-criminal activities on computers, as well as the procedures used in forensic investigations, is essential for effective cybersecurity and legal compliance. Additionally, recent security incidents highlight the importance of incident response plans and the role of legislation and regulations in shaping ethical practices in information security.

Differences Between Computer Crime and Non-Criminal Activities

An example of a computer crime is hacking into a secure network to steal sensitive data. This illegal activity involves unauthorized access, typically violating laws such as the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) in the United States (Friedman, 2019). Conversely, a non-criminal activity might be an employee accessing their own email during work hours, which, while perhaps against company policy, is not illegal if done within authorized boundaries. The core difference lies in legality; computer crimes involve unlawful acts such as theft, fraud, or unauthorized access, whereas non-criminal activities do not breach legal statutes.

A second example of a computer crime is deploying malware to compromise a system for malicious purposes, such as installing ransomware to extort money (Kshetri & Voas, 2018). An example of a legitimate activity could be a penetration test, where authorized personnel simulate cyberattacks to identify vulnerabilities in a system. This activity is ethical and legal when authorized, unlike malicious hacking, which is criminal.

Hypotheses on Motivations Behind Computer Crimes

People may commit computer crimes for various reasons, including financial gain, such as stealing credit card information to sell on the black market (Bada et al., 2019). Some individuals are motivated by political or ideological reasons, attempting to promote or oppose certain causes through cyberattacks, exemplified by hacktivism (Dowling & Smith, 2020). Others may act out of challenge, curiosity, or a desire for recognition within hacker communities. Personal financial hardship or grievances against an organization might also drive individuals toward committing cyber offenses.

Moreover, a lack of awareness or understanding of legal boundaries can lead individuals to inadvertently commit crimes, especially if they do not recognize certain activities as illegal (Yar, 2021). The motivation can be financial, ideological, social, or psychological, emphasizing the complexity and diversity of intent behind cybercriminal activities.

Computer Forensic Analysis Procedures and Methodology

Computer forensic analysis involves systematic procedures to identify, preserve, analyze, and present digital evidence. A typical forensic process begins with securing the scene, ensuring that the evidence remains unaltered, often by creating bit-by-bit copies of data sources (Rogers et al., 2020). Next, investigators conduct a preliminary investigation to understand the scope and nature of the case, identifying relevant digital assets.

The methodology includes using specialized tools to recover deleted files, analyze network logs, and trace digital activities to establish timelines and uncover malicious actions. During analysis, investigators prioritize maintaining chain of custody documentation to preserve evidence integrity. Finally, findings are documented and prepared for presentation in legal proceedings, ensuring that evidence withstands scrutiny. An effective forensic methodology must follow standards such as those outlined by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

Incident Response and Security Legislation

A recent well-known security incident is the 2021 SolarWinds cyberattack, where threat actors compromised a widely used IT management software to infiltrate multiple government agencies and private organizations (Zetter, 2020). The incident response procedures involved identifying the breach, analyzing affected systems, containing the malware, and implementing patches. Organizations also conducted forensic investigations to understand the attack vectors fully.

To mitigate risks, organizations should follow incident response frameworks such as NIST's Computer Security Incident Handling Guide, which emphasizes preparation, detection, containment, eradication, recovery, and lessons learned (NIST, 2018). In the SolarWinds case, effective response involved collaboration across agencies, timely patching, and enhanced monitoring. This incident highlights the importance of proactive incident response plans and regular updates to security measures.

Legislation and regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) guidelines, aim to enhance legal and ethical standards in cybersecurity (Siegel, 2020). While these laws have strengthened accountability and data protection, their effectiveness depends on enforcement and organizational compliance. Overall, legislation has contributed positively by setting legal boundaries and encouraging better security practices, although continuously evolving threats require adaptive regulatory frameworks.

Conclusion

Distinguishing between computer crimes and legitimate activities, understanding motivations behind cyber offenses, and implementing thorough forensic analysis procedures are vital components of effective cybersecurity practices. Recent security incidents underscore the importance of robust incident response strategies guided by legislation and standards that promote ethical behavior and legal compliance. As technology advances, so too must the frameworks for protecting digital assets and ensuring justice in cyberspace.

References

1. Bada, M., Sasse, A., & Nurse, J. R. (2019). Developing cybersecurity awareness: a pilot study. Journal of Cybersecurity Education, Research and Practice, 2019(1), 1-10.
2. Dowling, M., & Smith, R. (2020). Hacktivism and the new landscape of cyber protest. Cybersecurity Review, 15(2), 45-67.
3. Friedman, B. (2019). Cybersecurity and the Law: Legal implications of hacking and cybercrime. Journal of Law & Cybersecurity, 4(2), 123-138.
4. Kshetri, N., & Voas, J. (2018). Ransomware: Threats and mitigation strategies. IEEE Security & Privacy, 16(4), 77-83.
5. NIST. (2018). Computer Security Incident Handling Guide (Special Publication 800-61 Rev. 2). National Institute of Standards and Technology.
6. Rogers, M., et al. (2020). Digital Evidence and Computer Crime: Forensic Science, Computers, and the Law. Elsevier.
7. Siegel, D. (2020). The Impact of GDPR on Data Privacy and Security. International Data Privacy Law, 10(4), 263-274.
8. Yar, M. (2021). Cybercrime and Society. Sage Publications.
9. Zetter, K. (2020). Inside the SolarWinds Hack: How a Cyberattack Changed Cybersecurity. Wired Magazine.