The candidate must also have credits from National Security Agency-certified intrusion courses. The candidate must have a college education and five to eight years working in counterintelligence.
Investigators may be called in to review computer security issues or conform to the schedules of their clients. Like all private investigators, private computer forensic investigators typically work irregular hours. Some investigators specialize in identity theft, reviewing computer data to verify individuals' identities and informing vendors or banks of illegal transactions. Some of these professionals work in internal investigations at a business or organization, reviewing workers' computers to identify company information theft. In the case of computer forensics, private investigators review information found on computers or other digital devices to find data, documents, e-mail records or programs that can implicate or protect a person. Bureau of Labor Statistics.Ī private computer forensic investigator works for individuals, law firms and businesses to recover and analyze computer systems, as well as investigating the backgrounds of individuals. $88,890 (all information security analysts)* $55,360 (all forensic science technicians)* Much faster than average (37%) compared to all occupations (for all information security analysts)* Slower than average (6%) compared to all occupations (for all forensic science technicians)* Several organizations provide certification, which is voluntary.ġ-5 years of experience in digital investigationġ-5 years working with computer systems securityĪs fast as average (11%) compared to all occupations (for all private investigators)* Some states require private investigator licensure voluntary certification is available through various organizations. Information security analysts establish security protocols and programs for companies.īachelor's degree in computer science or criminal justice.īachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering or information technology.īachelor's degree in computer science or computer engineering, though some employers prefer a master's degree in information systems.Ĥ years for bachelor's, 2 years for master'sĮxtensive pre-professional or on-the-job computer training is required. Private computer forensic investigators recover data for internal or legal investigations.ĭigital forensic science technicians establish and provide digital evidence for investigations and court proceedings.
Common job titles in this field include private computer forensic investigator, digital forensic science technician and information security specialist.
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Pros and Cons of a Career in Digital Forensicsĭigital forensics is the analysis of computer and electronic equipment to find evidence pertinent to a legal trial or internal investigation.