9781422273418

Other digital forensics investigators can work in the field, securing evidence and analyzing communications. They might work out of mobile vans or be part of law enforcement stakeouts. Digital forensics investigators who work for corporations can be based in corporate offices or sent to locations to analyze evidence and conduct investigations. Investigators can be called to examine evidence in highly dangerous and risky situations. National security—related investigations can include suspected terrorism. Other investigations can involve high-profile hacking and theft of personal information from databases that include information on millions of people. There are cyber squads at law enforcement agencies across the United States, including at FBI headquarters in Quantico, Virginia, and the agency’s 56 field offices. Cyber squads tend to be office-based, but cyber action teams can travel worldwide and gather information about cybercrimes that threaten national security and the economy. Career Outlook The career outlook for digital forensics investigators and related professionals is bright. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), more than 112,000 people were already employed in digital forensics in 2018. This number includes people who are network administrators or technicians who perform digital forensics as part of their job. The field is expected to grow by 32 percent between 2018 and 2028, much more quickly than other career fields. Median pay for information security professionals was over $98,000 per year in 2018, according to the BLS. With computer hacking on the rise and increases in all forms of computer-related crime, digital forensics professionals will continue to be in high demand.

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Digital Forensics