2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW This chapter presents a review of literature that is related to computer and digital forensics. It begins by taking a look at the meaning of computer forensics and the different areas within this field. It also explores the forensic science process and the challenges facing practitioners. The chapter then discusses social networking and its relationship with cybercrime and the role of forensics in keeping user information private and secure. It concludes by reviewing the meaning and significance of metadata information in resolving digital or cybercrime activities. 2.1 Definition of Computer Forensics Computer forensics is the general term used to describe the acquisition, preservation, analysis and presentation of digital evidence(s). Computer Forensics is “the science that is concerned with the relation and application of computers and legal issues” (Kuchta 2000). This definition attempts to show the link between forensic science and law or legality. Computer forensics is also commonly referred as “cyber-forensics or digital forensics” by various individuals, authors of books and also information security professionals. The goal of …show more content…
As far back as 2001 when the first “Digital Forensics Workshop” was held and a case for standards was made, considerable progress has been made in ensuring the growth and expansion of the practice of computer forensics. Mason (2003) suggested the need for standards by which digital forensic practitioners ensure that evidences for prosecuting cases in the law courts are valid as more judgments from a growing number of cases were reliant on the use of electronic and digital evidences in proving the cases. XXXX (2005 & 2007) emphasized the dynamic nature of technology and its impact on the digital forensics field. Hence, the need for having early standards in regulating the