Computer Forensics JumpStart (Jumpstart (Sybex)) (Paperback)

~ Michael Solomon (Author), Neil Broom (Author), Diane Barrett (Author)
Key Phrases: digital intelligence, software write blocker, forensic suite, Common Forensics Tools, United States, Common Tasks (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

At the heart of modern corporate crime and counter-terrorism investigations, computer forensics is now the fastest growing segment of IT and law enforcement. For everyone curious about this hot field, here is an in-depth introduction to the technological, social, and political issues at hand. Sybex’s JumpStart approach is ideal for those interested in computer forensics but not yet sure what it’s all about. It offers a complete overview of the basic skills and available certifications that can help to launch a new career.

From the Back Cover

Launch Your Career in Computer Forensics—Quickly and Effectively Written by a team of computer forensics experts, Computer Forensics JumpStart provides all the core information you need to launch your career in this fast-growing field:

Conducting a computer forensics investigation

Examining the layout of a network

Finding hidden data

Capturing images

Identifying, collecting, and preserving computer evidence

Understanding encryption and examining encrypted files

Documenting your case

Evaluating common computer forensic tools

Presenting computer evidence in court as an expert witness

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Product Details

• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: Wiley (December 10, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 078214375X
• ISBN-13: 978-0782143751
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 7.5 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #107,153 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

  Popular in these categories: (What's this?)

  #10 in	Books > Computers & Internet > Security & Encryption > Forensics
  #58 in	Books > Computers & Internet > Business & Culture > Hacking
  #71 in	Books > Computers & Internet > Web Development > Security & Encryption > Encryption

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

13 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars This is an eye opening book!!, May 2, 2005

By	Somerset Adams "Paul" (Indian Mound, TN) - See all my reviews

The book I chose to review was a book on Computer Forensics. Computer forensics is a very helpful easy to read book on investigative techniques for corporate managers or law enforcement. Unauthorized Internet access for employees could potentially grow into a festering tumor for many employers. This book details how someone with basic computer skills could investigate a workstation to see if anything malicious has been occurring.
The authors do a splendid job of offering real work examples to show the damage of inappropriate access and use by certain individuals. The use of the Internet and emails as a method of destruction is particularly alarming. Criminals and people with a penchant for malice are using emerging and established forms of communication to pervert the original intent of creators. The examples give snap shots into the complexity of the world of 21st century crimes.
The book is does go into detail about fraud on web based commerce. Thing such as ebay and bargain shopping web sites, seem noticeably missed in the context of crimes committed. The interesting example they use is the theft of website design from one website. Criminals could then use such designs to their own professional credit. It proceeds to tell the audience how to retrace the computer footprints to determine if designs were stolen.
It surveys overall Internet issues such as domain name services and email servers. The subject matter is daunting to say in the least, but the authors keep an individual grounded in the fact they are a beginner. It gives the feel of becoming a modern Dick Tracy or Sam Spade. The section also covers encrypted passwords, which are becoming more commonplace due to online commerce.
My main criticism would be the overall simplicity the authors present when entering such a field. It almost smacks of snake oil salesmen bartering cure alls. The work seems admirable but a very vast field, which encompasses everything from the intellectual property rights of web designers to human resource managers keeping tabs on company employees. Other than those points, I would say this is a must read for anyone who plans to enter businesses, which conduct online based exchanges of information or capital. It was a real experience to discover the depth of emerging criminal conduct with technology.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Used as a textbook, February 8, 2008

By	D. Ruggles "Buck Wylder" (Lexington, KY USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

My Univ is using this as a textbook, and its good so far, even for an experienced computer geek like myself. It is a basic one, but I would say it sets the foundation for advanced training.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Very Good Introductory Book, April 20, 2007

By	Adam Coven "Adam Coven" (NY) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Like the previous reviewer I agree that the book does cover a fair breadth of material but not great detail. But, as a quick search will show, there are several hundred books on the subject. Most of those books are very technical and detailed unlike this book which is a great introduction to an incredibly complex industry. If your interested in getting more information about this field before jumping in this is a must have.