Computer Forensic ExaminerA computer forensic examiner is the one called for in instances when illegal activities have been done against a company or a government with the use of a computer. These activities can encompass hacking, pornography, and illegal download of programs, whether malicious or not. Other areas are also covered such as the use of the computer for deliberate threats and other activities. However, let us just focus on the general view of what the job of this examiner does: diagnose how the computer problem originated, determine what kinds of evidence can be gathered, and make a comprehensive report on the incident. Because this job sounds, and is, really difficult, listed are the top ten qualities that a computer forensic expert should possess: 10. Interest. Jobs that involve investigations usually take extra long hours to finish. A person with no interest in such a task will find it too boring or too difficult so that the whole process will be handled in a haphazard way. That is definitely a no-no here. 9. Willingness to Learn. This kind of forensic expert needs to be updated every so often about new developments in the cyberworld. Only a person who is willing to learn can survive such a tedious and continuing process. 8. Computer Expertise. This is quite obvious. What happens when a person enrolls in the program, and he does not even know the difference between a hard drive and a floppy drive? The example might make you laugh, but there are people who will ask you, "What is a floppy drive?" It's obsolete, you might say. 7. Open-mindedness. Investigations will not always progress in the way that you want them to. Your services will be called again and again by the client who wants the work done immediately, but you just can't find what you wanted no matter how hard you tried. Maybe you should listen to other experts and look into a different angle. 6. Investigative. Thoroughness is very important in investigative careers. "Never leave a stone unturned" is what they say. For example, if your client is a Tennessee branch of a company, you might also want to check connections to their main branch. 5. Focused. You should have attention to details but focused on what you are tasked to do. 4. Legally Knowledgeable. Usually, the evidence that you will find will be used in court. Basic knowledge of the law is important, and you can ask for help by consulting a lawyer about the problem. 3. Intelligent. The job involves analysis; therefore, an intelligent person is required here. 2. Professionalism. The salary of the average expert might not be hefty, but professionalism is expected. 1. Honest. This job involves handling of very sensitive information. It is only natural that an honest person is allowed to do this job. Just imagine what could happen if a dishonest one has access to the data that can bring one company down? This might sell for millions to the competitors! The client would always want to be assured that whatever information was gathered in the process of the investigation will be respected, not shared with others. |