Like every coin has two aspects, similarly, technology has its own share of pros and cons which makes it a topic of debate. Though the introduction of technology was solely on the purpose of easing out the lives of mankind, yet there are certain repercussions attached to it. Today, as we continue using mobiles and laptops both on a professional and personal front, it makes us quite vulnerable to online scams, fraud emails and web links, network attacks, debit and credit card hoaxes, etc. To combat such cybercrimes, there is a high demand for Cyber Forensic professionals. Here’s an overview of how to start a career in Computer Forensics and what all you can do with a degree in the field.
This Blog Includes:
- What is Cyber Forensics?
- Is Computer Forensics a Good Career?
- Skills Required for Cyber Forensics
- Who Can Pursue a Career in Cyber Forensics?
- Cyber Forensic Courses
- Subject Curriculum – Topics Covered
- Top Universities Offering Cyber Forensic Courses
- Jobs and Salary
- Books for Cyber Forensics
- Good Courses on Cyber Forensics in 2022
- Future Scope
- FAQs
What is Cyber Forensics?
Cyber or Computer Forensics is an emerging field and one of the most pivotal branches of the Cybersecurity Ecosystems. It deals with investigating and extracting important data and information as evidence in various cases in cybercrime. Cyber specialists uncover several hidden or deleted files using their knowledge in encryption decoding software and other recovery programs from databases, network servers, mobiles, laptops, tablets or other digital devices.
Is Computer Forensics a Good Career?
With opportunities to work with private firms as well as join government bodies, a career in Computer Forensics is truly rewarding. Due to the increasing rate of cyber attack every single year, agencies from across the world are spending a huge amount of money on best talents from Cyber Forensics. If you think of opting it as a career, take a look at the job profile given below:
- Security Consultant
- Computer Forensic Investigator
- Computer Forensic Technician
- Forensic Computer Analyst
- Information Systems Security Analyst
- Malware Analyst
- Information Technology Auditor
- Digital Forensic Specialist
- Forensic Computer Examiner
Skills Required for Cyber Forensics
- Technical and Analytical Skills
- Familiarity with Networking Concepts
- Strong Communication Skills
- Command Over Cybersecurity Concepts
- Attention to Detail
- To Adapt and learn regularly
Who Can Pursue a Career in Cyber Forensics?
Are you planning to study abroad? Then, you must be aware that every university has its own eligibility requirements for enrolling international students. Given below are some of the common eligibility conditions that students need to fulfil in order to study courses in Computer Forensics:
- Passed 10+2 education with Computer Science as a compulsory subject from a recognised board of education.
- In order to pursue a master’s degree in Cyber Forensics or to be certified in Cyber of Information Security, candidates need to have a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Information Technology like BCA or BSc Computer Science or equivalent from an accredited institution.
Cyber Forensic Courses
With the rise in demand for professionals in the field of Cyber Forensic, more and more courses are being introduced to further the knowledge to the students about the fundamental concepts of this field. Given below is the list of various undergraduate and graduate-level courses the young aspirants might consider:
- BSc Computer Forensic and Security
- BSc (Hons) Computer Forensic
- BSc Cyber Security and Forensic Computing
- BSc Digital Forensic and Cyber Security
- Graduate Pathway Course in Digital Forensic and Cyber Analysis
- Graduate Certificate in Digital Forensics
- MSc Computer Forensics
- MEng Computer Forensic and Security
- MSc Forensic Computing and Cybercrime Investigation
- MSc Cyber Security, Threat, Intelligence and Forensics
- MSc Cyber Technology
Also Read:
- Diploma in Cyber Security
- PG Diploma in Cyber Security
- Career in Cyber Security
- Career in Cryptography and Network Security
Subject Curriculum – Topics Covered
Though each course and university differ from each other when it comes to extending the knowledge and frontiers of the field. Enlisted below are the major topics that are typically covered in Cyber Forensic courses:
Topics | Sub-topics |
Fundamentals of Cyber Forensics | Basics of Computer Storage, Mobile Forensic, Computer Ethics, Fundamentals of Operating Systems (OS), Storage and File Systems, Data Recovery, Basic Terminologies in Cyber Forensics, etc. |
Basic Concepts in Cyber Law | Hacking, Virus Attacks, Software Piracy, Cyber Harassment, Social Engineering, Email Scams, Malware, DDoS Attacks, Laws Pertaining to Cyberspace and Intellectual Properties, etc. |
Data Recovery | Extracting and Recovering of Cache and Deleted Files, Preservation and Handling of Digital Evidence, Access and Modification of a File, Analysis of the Timeline of Digital Files, Digital Forensic Toolkits, etc. |
Cyber Security | Security Measures based on Hardware and Software, Concepts of OS and Application Attacks, Threat Level Analysis, Reverse Engineering, Financial Frauds, Cracking Techniques, etc. |
Cyber Investigation | e-Discovery, Gathering and Preserving Digital Evidence, Tracking and Investigation, Digital Storage Devices, Password Cracking, Extraction of the Deleted Digital Evidence, Tracing IP Address, Tools and Techniques in Cyber Forensics, etc. |
Top Universities Offering Cyber Forensic Courses
Given below is the list of the most popular universities offering excellent courses in Cyber Security and Forensics:
- University of South Wales
- George Mason University
- Manchester Metropolitan University
- Boston University
- Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation
- University College Dublin
- University of New South Wales
- Kaplan Higher Education Academy
- Marshall University
- Northumbria University
- University of Derby
Jobs and Salary
Starting salaries for experts in this field can be $23,000 (INR-17,0000) per year. With experience this can rise to between $33,000 (INR-24,55,000)and $48,000(INR-3565320) per year. Here is a list of jobs you can get with a Cyber Forensics Degree:
- Computer Forensics Investigator
- Computer Forensics Technician
- Information Security Analyst
- Information Systems Security Analyst
- Forensic Computer Analyst
- Security Consultant
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Forensic Manager
- Malware Analyst
- Data Recovery Expert
Books for Cyber Forensics
Given below are some of the best books that can be considered to read more about cyber forensics:
Books | Links |
The Basics of Digital Forensics: The Primer for Getting Started in Digital Forensics | Click Here to Buy! |
Investigating Internet Crimes: An Introduction to Solving Crimes in Cyberspace | Click Here to Buy! |
Handbook of Digital Forensics and Investigation | Click Here to Buy! |
Cyber Forensics | Click Here to Buy! |
Good Courses on Cyber Forensics in 2022
Given below are some of the best courses for your learnings:
Courses | Links |
Computer Forensics Courses | Click Here to know more! |
IT Surveillance and Computer Forensics from Scratch HACKING | Click Here to know more! |
Digital Forensics Concepts | Click Here to know more! |
IT Fundamentals for Cybersecurity Specialization | Click Here to know more! |
Future Scope
A career in Cyber Forensics is incredibly rewarding. In fact, the demand for computer forensic experts has been increasing rapidly. The global Digital Forensics Market growth is estimated to reach $7 billion by 2024. The job role helps a person to work with either a government body or a private firm. Moreover, government agencies from around the world are spending money on Cyber Forensics due to the massive cyber attacks each year. Hence, a huge sum of money is being spent on recruiting the best talents from the industry to prepare recovery teams. Therefore, it is the right time to pursue a career in Cyber Forensics.
Recommended Read:
- Forensic Science Course after 12th
- Top Forensic Science Colleges
- BSc Forensic Science Colleges
- MSc Forensic Science
- Build a Career in Ethical Hacking
FAQs
Technology is rapidly advancing and so are cyber crimes. These cyber crimes are getting more sophisticated. Hence, there is a huge demand for professionals in this career.
An interested student must have completed 12th examination with a minimum of 55% score. Additionally, he/she should have taken up any of the subjects- Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, Biology and computer science. Moreover, the student must have secured a minimum of 50% marks in Mathematics alone.
Cyber Forensics investigators need to hold a BA in a relevant field. For example, IT, computer science, or criminal justice. Next, acquire 18 months to 5 years of experience in the IT sector or law enforcement to get into cyber forensics. These qualifications are required to be eligible for B.sc Cyber Forensics
Computer or Cyber Forensics is a high-growing field with massive potential for career advancement. Along with the information security industry, the field is anticipated to grow exponentially over the next decade. And, if you are looking forward to becoming the next big IT personality and want a good educational counselling, reach out to the study abroad experts today. Call us at 1800 57 2000 and get a free 30 minute counselling session.