Description: Forensic data management refers to the handling and organization of data obtained through digital forensic investigations. This process involves the collection, preservation, analysis, and presentation of data that can be used as evidence in a legal context. Forensic data management is crucial to ensure the integrity of the information and the validity of the findings, as any alteration or manipulation of the data can compromise the investigation. Digital forensic experts use specialized tools and techniques to recover data from electronic devices such as computers, mobile phones, and servers, ensuring that the evidence remains intact and is properly documented. This discipline applies not only in criminal contexts but also in cases of fraud, violations of corporate policies, and civil disputes. Forensic data management is a constantly evolving field, driven by advances in technology and the increasing complexity of digital devices, requiring professionals to stay updated on best practices and available tools to perform their work effectively.
History: Forensic data management has its roots in the development of computing and the need to investigate technology-related crimes. As computers and digital devices became more common in the 1980s, the need for systematic methods to recover and analyze data emerged. In 1984, the term ‘digital forensics’ was first coined by Dr. Eoghan Casey, who significantly contributed to establishing standards in the discipline. Since then, forensic data management has evolved over time, incorporating new technologies and techniques to adapt to changes in the digital landscape.
Uses: Forensic data management is primarily used in criminal investigations, where the recovery of digital evidence is required to support legal cases. It is also applied in the corporate sector to investigate internal fraud, violations of security policies, and labor disputes. Additionally, it is used in data recovery after cybersecurity incidents, where it is necessary to analyze how a security breach occurred and what data was compromised.
Examples: An example of forensic data management is the investigation of a fraud case in a company, where emails and system access logs are analyzed to identify suspicious activities. Another case could be the recovery of data from a mobile phone in a criminal investigation, where messages and multimedia files are extracted to establish connections between suspects.
