| Occurrences of computer misuse have risen | | | | traced through computer forensics. |
| dramatically in recent times with rapid advancements in | | | | Deleted files can be retrieved through a process of |
| information technology. Many people who misuse | | | | precise extraction. Done so by a professional it can |
| computers assume that because of the vast number | | | | reveal robust evidence that can be used for |
| of PCs and laptops used around the world every day | | | | convictions both civil and criminal. |
| that they are safe from conviction of computer | | | | Reputable computer forensic companies can provide |
| misuse. | | | | the most appropriate - and proportionate - service for |
| However, when computer misuse is detected, the | | | | any case that may need evidence extracted from a |
| computer needs to be securely seized and taken | | | | computer. They have experts in the field of digital |
| away for analysis. Experts in computer forensics can | | | | forensics who know where to look and how to safely |
| analyse the digital trail left during computer misuse | | | | and precisely extract evidence from computers, |
| much to the surprise of the perpetrator. | | | | without damaging this fragile data. Using a computer |
| It is vital that, when misuse is suspected, the computer | | | | forensics company without the appropriate standards, |
| in questions is quarantined until it can be examined by | | | | accreditations, training and security can render your |
| an expert in computer forensics. . Data and serious | | | | digital evidence unreliable. |
| evidence can be lost if an unqualified person tries | | | | Just like other elements of a legal investigation, |
| analyse the digital trail so it is always advised that a | | | | computer forensics teams have strict procedures to |
| professional forensic team be called. | | | | follow and it isn't as simple as seizing a computer and |
| There are numerous ways in which a computer can | | | | extracting potentially harmful files. It is important that |
| be misused. There are many high profile cases | | | | the process is done correctly and follows strict |
| involving, for example, indecent images, but blackmail, | | | | guidelines so the evidence can be used effectively |
| identity theft, fraud and drug related offences could be | | | | within a conviction and justice can be served. |