Digital Archaeology

The Definitive, Up-to-Date Guide to Digital Forensics: Laws, Tools, Methods, Challenges, and Careers

The rapid proliferation of cyber crime is increasing the demand for digital forensics experts in both law enforcement and in the private sector. In Digital Archaeology, expert practitioner Michael Graves has written the most thorough, realistic, and up-to-date guide to the principles and techniques of modern digital forensics.

Graves begins by providing a solid understanding of the legal underpinnings of and critical laws affecting computer forensics, including key principles of evidence and case law. Next, he explains how to systematically and thoroughly investigate computer systems to unearth crimes or other misbehavior, and back it up with evidence that will stand up in court.

Drawing on the analogy of archaeological research, Graves explains each key tool and method investigators use to reliably uncover hidden information in digital systems. His detailed demonstrations often include the actual syntax of command-line utilities. Along the way, he presents exclusive coverage of facilities management, a full chapter on the crucial topic of first response to a digital crime scene, and up-to-the-minute coverage of investigating evidence in the cloud.

Graves concludes by presenting coverage of important professional and business issues associated with building a career in digital forensics, including current licensing and certification requirements.

Topics covered include

• Acquiring and analyzing data in ways consistent with forensic procedure
• Recovering and examining e-mail, Web, and networking activity
• Excavating evidence stored by third-party cloud services
• Investigating users' behavior on mobile devices
• Overcoming anti-forensics measures that seek to prevent data capture and analysis
• Performing comprehensive electronic discovery in connection with lawsuits
• Effectively managing cases and documenting the evidence you find
• Constructing a complete forensics workstation
• Planning and building your career in digital forensics

Digital Archaeology is a key resource for anyone preparing for a career as a professional investigator; for IT professionals who are sometimes called upon to assist in investigations; and for those seeking an explanation of the processes involved in preparing an effective defense, including how to avoid the legally indefensible destruction of digital evidence