The Internet is very much a global phenomenon in which cyberspace allows a large degree of anonymity, international outreach and speed of transaction that can be easily exploited. As a result, a new generation of globally-based sophisticated techno or cyber criminals has emerged. The attractions of high tech or cyber crime to criminal networks are almost ideal: there are vast profits to be made; there is an ever increasing 'pool of victims'; there is a lower risk of capture, and prosecution and ultimately less likelihood of substantial sentencing.
We are undoubtedly experiencing an exponential growth in cyber-crime/e-crime cases. As a consequence IT forensics are taking an increasingly prominent role in criminal proceedings. Similarly, because of the challenges around criminal prosecution, civil proceedings are also becoming frequently more evident.
Forensics in business can also serve a greater function than that to which it is traditionally perceived, namely that of providing evidence in criminal or civil judicial proceedings.
In addition to a conventional litigation support role, this can range from providing rigorous internal IT systems monitoring, through to overt and covert open source monitoring of company and staff threats and risks.
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