COMPUTER FORENSICS KNOWLEDGE; A MUST FOR EVERY FORENSIC ACCOUNTANTS

WHAT IS COMPUTER FORENSICS?


Computer forensics is the investigative arm of computer science that handles investigations in order to bring out evidences that could be used in the law court to prosecute a suspect when found guilty of an offence. Computer forensics investigators perform their duties through data analysis. The nature of forensic accounting requires that investigations be carried out in certain cases.

One may be asking; what concerns investigation with computer? Well, the answer is simple, most frauds if not all frauds are committed through the computer and other electronic devices.

HOW TO BECOME A COMPUTER FORENSICS PROFESSIONAL

You can become a computer forensics professional by becoming a member of any of the professional computing forensic organizations like; IACIS (International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists) one of the oldest bodies created by police officers that wanted to formalize credentials in computing investigations. Apart from joining a professional body, the most important thing in becoming a computer forensics professional is knowledge and experience. As a basic requirement, you must have a first degree.

This experience and knowledge can only be acquired through reading, learning and doing. I knew nothing in computer forensics when I started but today, I can reasonably conduct computer forensic analysis and investigation with little help from professional bodies where I belong. Since you are looking at becoming a computer forensics from the perspective of an accountant, it will really be nice if you top it up with a credential in fraud examination like the ACFE.

BASIC TOOLS NEEDED IN YOUR COMPUTER FORENSICS LAB

Note that the list of computer forensics tools listed here cannot be a comprehensive one but just to give an idea of what you need to ensure you take care of. Below are some of the tools needed in your office/ work area:

A work room built with copper

A well ventilated and well lighten place

Electrostatic discharge bags and other forensics storage bags

Software for data analysis like; spydrive, Encase, etc

Scheduled and routine lab auditing procedure

A well equipped library

Computers with different OSs like Macintosh, windows, vistas and other older operating systems.

You also need to consider the office ergonomic

Like I said before, you will get more requirements from your professional body.

BENEFITS OF BECOMING A COMPUTER FORENSICS PROFESSIONAL

A lot of benefits accrue to all those that have credential in computer forensics and other investigative fields in the society. The most prominent of them all is respect and honour in the society. Note however that there are risks associated with computer forensics credentials. But, that wouldn’t deter people from becoming computer forensics professional. Your professional organization will link you up to security agents that will see to your basic security needs. Even life itself is full of risk so do not be afraid of that.

Wow! A lot has been discussed about computer forensics, now that you have known all these, wouldn’t you rather become a computer forensics professional today? If you consider joining any of the professional bodies mentioned above, also consider buying any of these books on computer forensics displayed below.

To your success as a computer forensics professional!



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