Computer Forensics

MICHAEL SHEETZ, JD, is Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice and Law at American InterContinental University. He has a combined twenty years experience in civilian and military law enforcement with expertise in the area of white collar and high-tech crime investigation. Mr. Sheetz is a former appellate law clerk and graduate of the University of Miami—School of Law.

• Introduction. Acknowledgments.1 A Definition of Computer Forensics.Introduction.Forensic Science.History of Computer Forensics.World Wide Web.Hacker Community.Conclusion.Notes.Suggested Reading.2 Basics of Computer Forensic Concepts.Introduction.Understanding Digital Evidence.Input.Storage.Processing.What Computer Data Is.Output.Conclusion.Notes.Suggested Reading.3 Preservation and Collection of Digital Evidence.Introduction.Rules of Evidence.Preservation.Collection.Conclusion.Note.Suggested Reading.4 Analysis of Digital Evidence.Introduction.Forensic Analysis.Conclusion.Notes.Suggested Reading.5 Reporting and Rendering the Opinion.Introduction.Preparing the Report.Presentation.Trial Process.Conclusion.Suggested Reading.6 Computer Attacks.Hackers and Phreakz Oh My.Hackers: Unauthorized Use and Trespassing.Wireless Hacking.Malware.Attacks from the Inside.Conclusion.Notes.Suggested Reading.7 Computers as Tools for Evil.Introduction.Computers and Crime.Identity Theft.Concealment.Auction Fraud and Retail Cons.Counterfeiting and Forgery.Prostitution.Securities Fraud.Conclusion.Notes.8 Computer Tools and the Forensic Examination.Introduction.Assuming Control of the Case.Understanding the Case.Evaluating the Evidence.Examining the "Live" System.Collecting Data from a Dead System.Imaging the Drive.Data Extraction.Data Analysis.Conclusion.Notes.9 Presenting Digital Evidence in Court.Introduction.Evidence.Types of Evidence.Expert Witnesses.Legal Requirements of Evidence.Search and Seizure.Conclusion.Notes.Index.

"Two chapters in Sheetz's book - "Computer Tools and the Forensic Examination" and "Computer as Tools for Evil" - are immensely enjoyable. The book's most important lesson is that digital evidence is fragile and ripe for inadvertent damage if improperly handled during an examination." (The Federal Lawyer, March/April 2008) "In conclusion, Mr. Sheetz's new book is comprehensible, accessible and a valuable contribution to this increasingly important area of our jurisprudence and justice system." (New York Law Journal, May 29, 2007)"This book is a well-written, useful resource on the topic of computer forensics, enhancing the reader's understanding of computer crime, how it occurs, and what to do about it." (Legal Information-Alert; 5/2007)"Solid advice for those without a strong technical background who want to be aware of the threats lurking out there in cyberworld."  (PQ Magazine, November 2007)