Computer forensics specialists need credible certification for court cases. US has many organizations offering certification, but background and equipment should be considered. UK offers full courses in computer forensics. Private investigator license may be required in some US states.
Having credible computer forensic certification is a vital part of the job. There’s more to it than simply a case of learning the skills needed to get the job done professionally. Computer forensics specialists are often required to provide evidence for one side in a court case. As opposing counsel will seek to discredit an expert, it is vital that he has recognized certification from a credible accreditation body.
With the United States, there are numerous organizations that offer computer forensic certification. They range from those that deal specifically with a specific type of computer equipment or program, and those that offer more comprehensive certification. The price of this certification varies greatly, ranging from a few hundred dollars for a test to a course costing several thousand dollars.
There are several questions you should ask before earning a particular computer forensics certification. One is the background and authority of the organization offering the certification. Another is how many people already have the certification: few and this may be of little relevance in the real world; many and can be seen as very easy to obtain. You should also inquire about the equipment and specific techniques and programs that the certification covers and make sure it is up to date and widely used in the industry. Finally, you should research potential employers and find out what certification they require or consider an advantage among job seekers.
In some countries, such as the United Kingdom, it is common to obtain computer forensics certification through a full course. Several universities offer a three-year course that combines practical training in the disciplines of computer forensics, specific training in the use of relevant equipment, and academic tutoring in subjects such as the ethics of computer forensics. There are also postgraduate courses geared towards students of all backgrounds, although those with a strong knowledge of information technology are at a particular advantage.
At present, people working in computer forensics are generally not required to have a private investigator license. However, there has been debate about whether this is necessary, and some states in the US have this requirement. This requirement generally does not affect the technical skills needed to become a computer forensics specialist. However, it may add additional requirements, such as demonstrating an understanding of privacy laws, and may cause problems for people with a criminal record.
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