Computer Forensics Research Paper Essay Example

damaged, or manipulated in various ways. Each action executed by a user on a computer or any electronic device leaves behind a digital fingerprint. The responsibility of the specialist is to locate this data in order to provide evidence regarding accessed files, modifications made, and visited websites (Asana-LSI]olla 2).

As an information security expert, a computer forensic specialist applies their knowledge to protect corporations from hacking, investigate computer breaches, and retrieve lost files. They assist law enforcement officials in analyzing data and determining its relevance to an ongoing case. Additionally, these specialists present evidence in a legally acceptable format and often testify in court ("Computer Forensic" 1).

There are multiple salary options and financial benefits in the field. If a computer forensic specialist chooses law enforcement, they can earn an average salary between $34,480 to $92,590. As a detective, their earnings can potentially reach $103,270 (Chorea-Macadam 3). Moreover, if they become a consultant, they can charge an hourly rate for services and seek reimbursement for expenses like mileage, lodging, and office-related expenditures. Usually, consultants can charge up to $400 per hour.

According to Ruff (2), the Specialist has the potential to earn up to $832,000 per year by working a forty-hour week. If they opt for government employment, their salary can range from $50,000 to $91,000. In addition, they would receive extra benefits typically linked with government jobs like health insurance, retirement plans, and paid vacation (Chorea-Macadam 3). Computer forensic specialists acquire specialized skills from different sources.

Some essential skills and qualities for the job include problem-solving creativity, attention to detail, strong IT skills, and the ability to identify trends and patterns in extensive data.

Additionally, being well-organized, methodical, knowledgeable about information security standards and legislation, and capable of working under pressure are highly recommended (Chorea-Macadam 5).

I have acquired most of these skills through my previous work in the IT industry and my experiences in the British Army Cadets. In order to specialize in computer forensics for law enforcement, candidates must undergo training in basic peace officer standards. This training is provided at a police academy, where candidates are prepared for all aspects of working in the law enforcement field.

The individual must renew the basic peace officer standards certificate on an annual basis to stay updated on protocol and legislation (Chorea-Macadam 5). In certain scenarios in the private sector and consulting fields, it may be necessary for the candidate to possess a private investigator's license. This ensures that they gather all job-related information within legal guidelines; failure to do so can lead to legal consequences ("Computer Forensic" 2).

The future of computer forensics appears promising, with an above-average rate of job growth. This field has emerged in the last three decades and continues to provide exciting prospects. Susan Chorea-Macadam highlighted its increasing significance because criminals are utilizing technology in various ways, including hacking, encryption, and IP masking. She identified it as one of the rapidly expanding sectors within the field of forensics.

Predicting the future, we expect to witness a minimum of 25% increase in job opportunities for computer forensics ("Computer Forensics" 2). In summary, the field of computer forensic specialists is still relatively new, yet it is intricate, dynamic, and constantly evolving. Media outlets consistently report on an unending cycle of cyber-crime and corporate fraud, demonstrating criminals'

ability to exploit emerging technology for their own benefit. This phenomena is only expanding and further driving the rarity of the computer forensics field.

Computer forensic specialists face the certain and evolving future of technology. This presents both a challenge and motivation for them to constantly update their skills and knowledge to keep up with these advancements. Their goal is to thwart criminals who will exploit these new technologies, as this career field offers vast opportunities ahead.
Works Cited: "Computer Forensic Specialist Degrees". Computer Forensic Specialist Degrees and Careers. N.D. Web. 1 April 2015. "Computer Forensics Analyst: Job Description, Duties ND Requirements".