The future of digital forensic investigations: Keeping the pace with technological advancements

Abstract

Digital forensics plays a crucial role in the justice system, providing digital evidence that can be used to prosecute and convict criminals. This field is rapidly evolving due to the increasing complexity of digital devices. These increasing complexities has presented new challenges for the digital forensic investigators because the devices are now equipped with multiple processors, advanced operating systems, and complex security features making it more difficult to extract digital evidence. The challenges posed by technological advancements have led to several problems in the field of digital forensics, including a backlog of evidence, quality of forensics investigations, credibility of digital evidence. The problems facing digital forensics have a significant impact on the justice system, because a lack of reliable digital evidence can lead to miscarriages of justice, both for the accused and for victims of crime. A comprehensive framework is proposed to address these challenges by emphasizing continuous innovation, continuous collaboration, continuous cybersecurity training and awareness.