Use The Web Or Other Resources To Research At Least Two Crim

Use the web or other resources to research at least two criminal or civil cases where recovered files played a significant role in case resolution

Use the web or other resources to research at least two criminal or civil cases in which recovered files played a significant role in how the case was resolved. Use your own words and do not copy the work of another student. APA format and references.

Use the web to research some tools that would be valuable in collecting both live memory images and images of various forms off media. Put together a shopping list for your manager that includes tools needed to be purchased. Include a price if applicable. APA format and references.

Write your answer using a WORD document. Do your own work. Submit here. Note your Safe Assign score. Score must be less than 25 for full credit.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Digital evidence, particularly recovered files, plays a critical role in legal proceedings, often serving as pivotal proof that influences case outcomes. In both criminal and civil litigation, the integrity, authenticity, and management of digitally recovered files can determine the direction and resolution of a case. This paper examines two notable cases where recovered digital files significantly contributed to the resolution, highlighting the importance of digital evidence in modern forensic investigations. Additionally, it reviews essential tools for collected digital evidence, providing a recommended shopping list for professionals tasked with preserving and analyzing media evidence.

Case Studies Where Recovered Files Influenced Case Resolution

One prominent criminal case where recovered digital files played a crucial role is the United States v. Anthony Elonis (2016). Elonis was convicted of making online threats, but the case underscored the importance of recovered social media files and communication data. Digital files from Facebook and other social media platforms revealed threatening messages and posts which were instrumental in establishing Elonais' intent and the threat's nature. Law enforcement recovered these files from cloud backups and devices, demonstrating how digital evidence can be essential in proving criminal intent (United States v. Elonis, 2016). The case highlighted issues related to digital evidence authenticity and chain of custody, ultimately leading to Elonais’ conviction when the recovered files were deemed reliable and properly managed.

A second case illustrating the importance of recovered files is the civil case of United States v. Microsoft Corporation (2001). In this antitrust lawsuit, Microsoft was accused of abusing its dominant market position. Digital evidence recovered from company servers and email archives played a significant role in the court's decision. The files contained evidence of anti-competitive practices and communications among executives regarding strategies to stifle competitors, which were crucial in establishing Microsoft's intent and conduct. The case demonstrated how comprehensive digital evidence, including email archives and internal documents, could influence major legal outcomes in civil litigation (United States v. Microsoft, 2001). The recovered files provided transparency into corporate behavior and shaped the court's understanding of Microsoft's alleged misconduct.

Tools for Collecting Live Memory and Media Images

In digital forensics, the collection of live memory images and media files is vital for preserving evidence in pristine condition. Several tools are available that facilitate acquisition of volatile memory (RAM) and static media images.

A highly recommended tool for capturing live memory images is Magnet RAM Capture. This tool allows forensic investigators to acquire volatile RAM data without altering the data, which is critical in maintaining evidence integrity (Magnet Forensics, 2023). The cost for Magnet RAM Capture is approximately $350, making it an accessible investment for forensic labs.

For imaging media such as hard drives, USB devices, and mobile media, FTK Imager by AccessData is a widely used tool. It offers comprehensive imaging capabilities, supports various file systems, and preserves the original media through bit-by-bit copies (AccessData, 2023). FTK Imager is free of charge, making it an invaluable resource for digital investigations.

Another essential tool is EnCase Forensic by OpenText. It provides robust imaging, analysis, and reporting features. EnCase supports live acquisition of volatile data and images of media devices, with pricing typically around $3,000 for a professional license (OpenText, 2023).

Additional tools may include write blockers such as Tableau Forensic Bridges, which prevent data alteration during media acquisition. These devices are crucial for ensuring data integrity and are priced between $600 and $2,000 depending on specifications (Caine & Ring, 2018).

Shopping List for Media Acquisition Tools

  • Magnet RAM Capture – $350
  • FTK Imager (free)
  • EnCase Forensic – approximately $3,000
  • Tableau Forensic Bridge (write blocker) – $1,000

Conclusion

Recovered digital files have become indispensable in legal proceedings, exemplified by cases such as United States v. Elonis and United States v. Microsoft. These cases demonstrate how digital evidence can establish intent, uncover misconduct, and influence case outcomes. To effectively manage and analyze digital evidence, forensic investigators require specific tools like RAM capture software, media imaging tools, and write blockers. The recommended shopping list provides a foundation for acquiring essential equipment that ensures data integrity and thorough investigation processes in digital forensic laboratories.

References

  1. AccessData. (2023). FTK Imager. Retrieved from https://accessdata.com/products/free-ftp-imager
  2. Caine, K., & Ring, S. (2018). Hands-on forensic labs: A digital forensics curriculum. Academic Press.
  3. Magnet Forensics. (2023). Magnet RAM Capture. Retrieved from https://www.magnetforensics.com/products/magnet-ram-capture/
  4. OpenText. (2023). EnCase Forensic. Retrieved from https://www.opentext.com/products-and-solutions/security/enabling-security/encase
  5. United States v. Elonis, 837 F.3d 265 (3rd Cir. 2016).
  6. United States v. Microsoft Corporation, 253 F.3d 34 (D.C. Cir. 2001).

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