Methodological frameworks of digital forensics

Digital forensics is essential for the successful opposition of computer crime. It is associated with many challenges, including rapid changes in computer and digital devices, and more sophisticated attacks on computer systems and networks and the rapid increase in abuse of ICT systems. For a forensic investigation to be performed successfully there are a number of important steps that have to be considered and taken. Since digital forensics is a relatively new field compared to other forensic disciplines, there are ongoing efforts to develop examination standards and to provide structure to digital forensic examinations. This paper attempts to address the diversity of methodologies applied in digital forensic investigations.