Computer Forensics (eBook)

MICHAEL SHEETZ, JD, is Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice and Law at American InterContinental University. He has a combined twenty years experience in civilian and military law enforcement with expertise in the area of white collar and high-tech crime investigation. Mr. Sheetz is a former appellate law clerk and graduate of the University of Miami--School of Law.

Introduction.

Acknowledgments.

1 A Definition of Computer Forensics.

Introduction.

Forensic Science.

History of Computer Forensics.

World Wide Web.

Hacker Community.

Conclusion.

Notes.

Suggested Reading.

2 Basics of Computer Forensic Concepts.

Introduction.

Understanding Digital Evidence.

Input.

Storage.

Processing.

What Computer Data Is.

Output.

Conclusion.

Notes.

Suggested Reading.

3 Preservation and Collection of Digital Evidence.

Introduction.

Rules of Evidence.

Preservation.

Collection.

Conclusion.

Note.

Suggested Reading.

4 Analysis of Digital Evidence.

Introduction.

Forensic Analysis.

Conclusion.

Notes.

Suggested Reading.

5 Reporting and Rendering the Opinion.

Introduction.

Preparing the Report.

Presentation.

Trial Process.

Conclusion.

Suggested Reading.

6 Computer Attacks.

Hackers and Phreakz Oh My.

Hackers: Unauthorized Use and Trespassing.

Wireless Hacking.

Malware.

Attacks from the Inside.

Conclusion.

Notes.

Suggested Reading.

7 Computers as Tools for Evil.

Introduction.

Computers and Crime.

Identity Theft.

Concealment.

Auction Fraud and Retail Cons.

Counterfeiting and Forgery.

Prostitution.

Securities Fraud.

Conclusion.

Notes.

8 Computer Tools and the Forensic Examination.

Introduction.

Assuming Control of the Case.

Understanding the Case.

Evaluating the Evidence.

Examining the "Live" System.

Collecting Data from a Dead System.

Imaging the Drive.

Data Extraction.

Data Analysis.

Conclusion.

Notes.

9 Presenting Digital Evidence in Court.

Introduction.

Evidence.

Types of Evidence.

Expert Witnesses.

Legal Requirements of Evidence.

Search and Seizure.

Conclusion.

Notes.

Index.

"Two chapters in Sheetz's book - "Computer Tools and the Forensic
Examination" and "Computer as Tools for Evil" - are immensely
enjoyable. The book's most important lesson is that digital
evidence is fragile and ripe for inadvertent damage if improperly
handled during an examination." (The Federal Lawyer,
March/April 2008)

"In conclusion, Mr. Sheetz's new book is comprehensible,
accessible and a valuable contribution to this increasingly
important area of our jurisprudence and justice system." (New
York Law Journal, May 29, 2007)

"This book is a well-written, useful resource on the topic of
computer forensics, enhancing the reader's understanding of
computer crime, how it occurs, and what to do about it." (Legal
Information-Alert; 5/2007)

"Solid advice for those without a strong technical background
who want to be aware of the threats lurking out there in
cyberworld." (PQ Magazine, November 2007)