Career Summary

The simple definition of Computer Forensics is a technological, systematic inspection of the computer system and its contents for evidence or supportive evidence of a crime or other computer use that is being inspected. Computer forensics requires specialized expertise that goes beyond normal data collection and preservation techniques available to end-users or system support personnel.

Computer forensics is done in a fashion that adheres to the standards of evidence that are admissible in a court of law. Thus, computer forensics must be techno-legal in nature rather than purely technical or purely legal.

Computer security is a fast developing area within Forensic Services. The work involves close contact with lawyers, commercial organizations and investigation agencies. Issues may involve fraud, child pornography, terrorism and ID theft. Organizations involved include: Police Forces, Government Agencies (Customs and Excise, DTI, Serious Fraud Office), Specialist Forensic Computing firms, IT Security and corporate investigation companies, large chartered accountancy firms. The National Hi Tech Unit (Police) will be changing shortly to SOCA (Serious Organized Crime Agency). Staff will no longer be policemen and they will employ people with IT degrees.