Digital Forensics Concepts from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Digital Forensics

This introductory course provides a broad overview of computer forensics as an occupation by exploring methodologies used surrounding digital forensics. In addition, the student acquires open-source forensic tools to use throughout this path.

Legal Considerations and search authority

In this module, you'll explore the laws that apply to digital forensics. Multiple state and federal laws apply to the field of digital forensics, as well as ethical concerns. This module demonstrates information commonly needed in a search warrant and a preservation request. The scope of search authority is covered, as well as the limitations of a consent search and guidelines surrounding wiretaps.

The Investigation Process

An introduction to the scientific principles of digital forensics. This module covers scientific principles that apply to digital forensics. The student learns about transfer of evidence, the difference between a witness and an expert witness and "big data" concerns and solutions.

Recognizing and Collecting Digital Evidence

Prepare for the practical side of forensic examinations with this module on physical evidence handling. In addition to forensic examinations, most digital investigators must understand how to manage physical evidence before, during and after leaving the scene. This module explores what to bring to a scene and how to prepare and label digital evidence for documentation purposes. You'll also examine how to collect and preserve the evidence for transportation and secure storage.

Preservation of evidence/On scene triage

Explore the details of digital device triage. Triaging a digital device is essential knowledge. Proper on-scene triage prevents the loss of volatile data and the collection of unnecessary devices. This module discusses capturing RAM, recognizing and dealing with encryption and destructive processes and triaging devices with a forensic boot media.

Hash values and file hashing

A look at hash values and hash algorithms. In this module, the student learns how to use hash values as a way to include or exclude files from an investigation. This includes a discussion of different types of hash algorithms and how to hash individual files versus hashing drives.

Creating a disk image

In this module, you'll explore the importance of creating a disk image. Forensic examiners need to be meticulous in their work to avoid cross-contamination when creating a bit-stream copy. This module explains the importance of sterilizing media, how to validate tools, proper application of the write-blocker and validating the forensic bit-stream copy.

Keyword and grep searches

Explore the details of keyword and grep searches. How to conduct a keyword search using automated tools and how to establish a keyword list is covered in this module. The student receives an overview of grep, as well as completing a grep search using an automated tool.

Network Basics

A look at network basics for the computer forensics investigator. This module describes what a network is, how it functions, what IP addresses are and an IP address’s function on the network. This module also explores what a MAC address is and why it is vital to network forensics. Internet protocols are also covered.

Reporting and Peer Review

A look at the importance of reporting and peer review. Report writing and peer review are of utmost importance. In this module, the student examiner learns what information to include and what does not belong in a final report. The student views several example reports, as well as generates a report using forensic software.

Digital Forensics Project

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces legal concerns regarding computer forensics, equipping individuals with practical knowledge

Facilitates understanding of scientific principles within digital forensics, providing a strong foundation

Provides insights into methods for identifying, collecting, and preserving digital evidence, enhancing investigative skills

Emphasizes the importance of on-scene triaging, aiding in the preservation of volatile data and efficient evidence collection

Covers hash values and file hashing techniques, enabling students to exclude or include files from investigations

Guides learners through the creation of disk images, ensuring meticulousness and data integrity in forensic examinations

Utilizes keyword and grep searches, empowering individuals to conduct thorough investigations and locate relevant data

Introduces network basics, providing a foundation for understanding network forensics

Reviews summary

Well-received digital forensics course

Learners say this engaging course in Digital Forensics provides a strong foundation in the field. The clear explanations by the instructor and step-by-step procedures make it easy to understand. Learners also appreciate the informative lectures, readable format, and variety of downloadable files.

Easy to follow

"very clear, step-by-step "

"Its eay to understand and follow."

"This course as described provides basic concepts for any beginners who might be interested in this field."

Provides real-world skills

"Excellent presentation and support. "

"Very informative course to learn the basics."

"Could've given path to .vmdk files so we could follow through with some demonstrations but otherwise all was well-explained."

Many helpful resources.

"A lot of useful information."

"It has been a really good course to understand the concepts of Digital Forensic."

"I enjoyed the lectures, but most importantly the course was infromative and I have learnt a lot."

The course documentation had to be obtained in other places.

"The course documentation had to be obtained in other places."

Unable to find software needed for the course.

"Unable to find software needed to proceed through course."

Lacks hands-on experience.

"Great! After completion of this course have a basic knowledge about forensics"

"Most of this course's content would've greatly benefitted from a readable format instead of videos with slideshows."

"Too bad is not very practical and some thing seems out of order judging by the introduction to each week, but in terms of the actual content it is soooo good!"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Digital Forensics Concepts with these activities:

Install VirtualBox and Vagrant

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Familiarize yourself with the important prerequisites of the course, VirtualBox and Vagrant.

Browse courses on VirtualBox

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Visit the official website and download the latest version of VirtualBox.
Install VirtualBox.
Visit the official website and download the latest version of Vagrant.
Install Vagrant.

Create a Mind Map of Digital Forensics Concepts

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Reinforce your understanding by creating a visual representation of key concepts and their relationships within the field.

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Identify the main concepts of digital forensics.
Organize the concepts into a hierarchical structure.
Use visual elements (e.g., shapes, colors) to represent the concepts and their connections.
Add additional details and examples to support the concepts.

Set Up a Linux Virtual Machine

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Learn how to set up a Linux virtual machine, which is necessary for practicing digital forensics techniques.

Browse courses on Virtual Machines

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Create a new virtual machine in VirtualBox.
Install a Linux distribution on the virtual machine.
Configure the virtual machine's network settings.
Install the necessary software on the virtual machine.

Two other activities

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Participate in a Peer Study Group

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Enhance your learning by collaborating with peers. Engage in discussions, share knowledge, and assist each other.

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Form a peer study group.
Establish a regular meeting schedule.
Assign topics and prepare discussion materials.
Engage in active discussions and knowledge sharing.

Write a Digital Forensic Report

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Apply your knowledge in documenting and presenting digital evidence by writing a comprehensive digital forensic report.

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Gather the necessary information for the digital forensic report.
Organize the information in a logical and coherent manner.
Write the report using clear and concise language.
Proofread the report carefully before submitting it.

Career center

Learners who complete Digital Forensics Concepts will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Computer Forensics Analyst

Computer Forensics Analysts use their knowledge of data recovery and analysis techniques to investigate cybercrimes. They are responsible for collecting, preserving, and analyzing digital evidence to help solve cases. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Computer Forensics Analyst by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Forensics Analyst

Digital Forensics Examiner

Digital Forensics Examiners are responsible for conducting digital forensic investigations and providing expert testimony in court. They use their knowledge of computer forensics techniques to analyze digital evidence and identify the perpetrators of cybercrimes. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the digital forensics field and prepares students for a career as a Digital Forensics Examiner. The course covers the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field, as well as the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Digital Forensics Examiner

Cybersecurity Analyst

Cybersecurity Analysts are responsible for protecting computer systems and networks from cyberattacks. They use their knowledge of security principles and techniques to identify vulnerabilities and develop security measures to prevent unauthorized access to data and systems. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Cybersecurity Analyst by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts are responsible for protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information systems. They use their knowledge of security principles and techniques to identify vulnerabilities and develop security measures to prevent unauthorized access to data and systems. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as an Information Security Analyst by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Network Security Analyst

Network Security Analysts are responsible for protecting computer networks from cyberattacks. They use their knowledge of security principles and techniques to identify vulnerabilities and develop security measures to prevent unauthorized access to data and systems. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Network Security Analyst by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Security Analyst

Security Architect

Security Architects are responsible for designing and implementing security measures to protect computer systems and networks from cyberattacks. They use their knowledge of security principles and techniques to identify vulnerabilities and develop security measures to prevent unauthorized access to data and systems. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Security Architect by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.

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Software Developer

Software Developers use their knowledge of programming languages and software development principles to design, develop, and test software applications. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Software Developer by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Business Analyst

Business Analysts use their knowledge of business processes and data analysis techniques to help businesses improve their operations. They use their skills to identify areas for improvement and develop solutions to help businesses achieve their goals. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Business Analyst by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.

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Security Consultant

Security Consultants use their knowledge of security principles and techniques to help businesses protect their assets from cyberattacks. They use their skills to identify vulnerabilities and develop security measures to prevent unauthorized access to data and systems. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Security Consultant by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.

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Fraud Examiner

Fraud Examiners use their knowledge of accounting principles and investigative techniques to investigate fraud. They use their skills to identify and prevent fraud, embezzlement, and other financial crimes. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Fraud Examiner by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.

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Database Administrator

Database Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining databases. They use their knowledge of database management systems to ensure that databases are running smoothly and securely. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Database Administrator by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts use their knowledge of data analysis techniques to extract insights from data. They use their skills to identify trends, patterns, and relationships in data to help businesses make better decisions. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Data Analyst by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.

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Private Investigator

Private Investigators use their knowledge of investigative techniques to conduct investigations for private clients. They use their skills to gather information, interview witnesses, and track down evidence. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Private Investigator by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.

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Forensic Accountant

Forensic Accountants use their knowledge of accounting principles and investigative techniques to investigate financial crimes. They use their skills to identify and prevent fraud, embezzlement, and other financial crimes. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Forensic Accountant by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.

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Systems Administrator

Systems Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining computer systems and networks. They use their knowledge of computer hardware and software to ensure that systems are running smoothly and securely. This course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Systems Administrator by teaching students the legal considerations, scientific principles, and practical techniques used in the field. The course also covers the ethical concerns and best practices that are essential for professionals in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator