Linking individuals to digital information

Abstract

As computer crime increases in scope and magnitude, it is imperative to develop techniques that can link individuals to specific computers, computer programs and electronic documents. Unfortunately, scientific techniques that can establish these links are limited at best. This paper demonstrates that computer use characteristics can be employed to establish strong, legitimate links between individuals and digital information. Certain characteristics can be used to identify individuals. Other characteristics may be used to create profiles that assist in eliminating suspects and reducing the scope of investigations.