Forensic Accounting
Brand Protection
Computer Forensics
Corporate Investigation

Volume 9 - No. 1                    Download PDF

In this edition of
The Kessler Report:

Computer Forensics: Sherlock Holmes in the Information Age

What's Infecting
Your Computer?

Stop Harassing Email

The Trojan
Horse Defense

Automatic Thieving Machines: ATM Frauds Exposed

Q&A: Do-It-Yourself Investigation

Kessler's Corner:
The Growing Field of Computer Forensics

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Kessler's Corner:  The Growing Field of Computer Forensics

Within the last few years, the field of computer forensics has grown by leaps and bounds.  The investigation of digital devices truly came to national attention back in 1998, when the discovery of e-mails produced a wealth of evidence in the Clinton/Lewinsky scandal.  Then, in 1999, Microsoft was forced to split up its software empire in an anti-trust case that was largely supported by internal electronic correspondence.  Soon after that came a series of corporate busts that put enormous corporations like Enron out of business.  These high-profile cases, along with the proliferation of high-tech fraud, gave quick rise to the business of computer forensics, with everyone from small business owners to global conglomerates eager to keep tabs on their employees, and to keep intruders from infiltrating their systems.

Now, computer forensics is one of the fastest growing fields in the nation.  One University of Massachusetts professor called it "the hottest thing since sliced bread."  People involved in law enforcement and information technology are flocking to computer forensics training seminars, hoping to become digital detectives, and an increasing number of colleges and universities are offering computer forensics as a major of study.  Clearly, the business is expanding at a phenomenal rate, and the demand for competent, well-trained professionals is continually growing.

However, as with any expanding entity, the pool of skill and talent is destined to become diluted.  Training courses are available to almost anyone who wants to try their hand at becoming a cyber-sleuth, some entirely online-based.  There are even "computer forensics boot camps" that promise to train IT workers in the matters of computer crime in a matter of days.  Certifications are relatively easy to acquire, and many IT professionals who suffered when the tech bubble burst are now taking advantage of this revolution, opening new computer forensics businesses left and right.  In addition, many companies are taking matters into their own hands, training their own people to handle the security of their information assets.

Ultimately, while the number of computer investigators increases, the percentage of true experts in the field will inevitably become smaller and smaller.  It is also important to remember that anyone can claim to produce results, but not everyone can back up those claims.  Kessler International can.   Our computer forensics experts have the benefit of years of experience, superior technical knowledge, and unmatched investigative skills.  We have the utmost dedication to our clients, and we guarantee complete professionalism and discretion, no matter what.  That's our promise… that's the Kessler International difference.

Sincerely,

Michael G. Kessler
President & CEO

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