Data privacy preservation in digital forensics investigation

Abstract

As we know, in a digital forensic investigation, the investigators extract evidence from different types of digital media. However, the extraction method itself unlocks the way for digital forensic investigators to encroach the privacy of the individual. To detect fraud, an investigator collects and analyzes the digital evidence connected to the fraud that has taken place and presents it in court to prove convict. There are no legal or technical structures in place that can keep a check on the investigation procedures to prevent this breach of privacy. Privacy of personal data of a user is stated in the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights. In this ever-changing world, the increasing use of computing devices creates vast volumes of personal data, and correspondingly, in digital investigation, there is an increased presumption of accountability and protection for the rights of a user governing data privacy. So, in this research study, we have tried to respond to this concern by analyzing the perceptions about data privacy preservation and issues related to digital forensics investigation from three perspectives, i.e., user, forensic investigator, and technology, and put forward a framework that respects user privacy as well as ensures a forensically sound digital investigation.