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in teaching programmers methods of investigation and the art
of ‘the hunch.’” Putting a case together is like solving a puzzle.
Careful, methodical work is required in order to get to the truth.
The field also requires a very strong sense of personal responsibil-
ity. “You need to be willing to put your name and reputation on the
line with each case you analyze, because you could very well end
up in court based on the contents of your report,” says Irvine. The
job also requires taking the initiative to keep learning in order to
keep up with the ever-changing nature of cybercrime.
On the Job
Employers
Many digital forensics investigators work in law enforcement. In the
United States the government is one of the biggest employers. The
CIA and FBI both actively seek agents with digital forensics and
information security skills. Investigators also work for the govern-
ments of other countries and for state and city law enforcement
agencies and justice departments. Alternatively, investigators can
find work with private companies and organizations. Many informa-
tion security consulting companies provide investigation services.
Digital forensics investigators gather
evidence on digital crimes ranging
from fraud to cyberterrorism.
Sometimes the only way to gain
access to evidence is to repair or
rebuild damaged devices.
