• Computer Forensic Analyst Job Description

    A computer forensic analyst is a person whose job is to extract and examine electronic data encrypted or stored in electronic storage devices. Their job involves recovering and examining electronic data such as photos, emails, or word processing documents from computers and other electronic storage devices to find digital evidence of criminal activities.

    A computer forensic analyst should be quick-witted, inquisitive, meticulous and diligent, and have good knowledge of computer operations and intrusion techniques. They should also have self-learning skills and ability to concentrate for long periods of time.

  • What does a computer forensic analyst do?

    Computer forensic analysts may do some or all of the following:

    • examine computers and other electronic data storage devices involved in crimes
    • disassemble and reassemble electronic devices
    • recover and examine deleted, encrypted or damaged files
    • write reports on the electronic data recovery and analysis
    • give evidence in court as expert witnesses
    • teach law enforcements agents on how to handle computer evidence
    • stay updated on new computer technologies
    • help a company determine how its information system was hacked
    • help protect a company’s information system
  • Where does a computer forensic analyst work?
  • Working Conditions

    Computer forensic analysts may work normal office hours or long and irregular hours to finish up projects. They may also be on call. They work in offices and on crime scenes. The recovery and analysis of electronic data from computers and other storage device may be a stressful and tiresome process.

  • What is Required to Become a computer forensic analyst?

    To become a computer forensic analyst, you will need a bachelor’s degree in computer forensics, computer science, information technology, criminal justice or a related discipline. The scope of computer forensics includes computer science and criminal justice.

  • Modules

    Just to give you an idea, some of the classes that you’ll be taking in college may include:

    • Calculus
    • Statistics
    • Programming
    • Encryption
    • Data recovery
    • Computer security
    • Computer and operating systems
    • Criminal justice
  • Specializations
  • Knowledge, Skills and Attributes

    Computer forensic analysts need to have:

    • patience
    • creativity
    • diligence
    • manual dexterity
    • adaptability
    • honesty and integrity
    • good attention to detail
    • good judgment and decision making skills
    • good listening and communication skills
    • analytical and problem solving skills
    • technical skills
    • the ability to work with small parts
    • the ability to concentrate for long periods
    • the ability to work well under pressure
    • the ability to work well independently and in a team
    • knowledge of criminal justice
    • knowledge of legal processes
    • knowledge of hacking and intrusion techniques
    • knowledge of computer forensic techniques
    • knowledge of computer and operating systems
    • knowledge of computer systems diagnostics

References

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