ITN 272 Digital Forensics

This course prepares students to conduct digital investigations and acquire and analyze digital evidence. Topics include file structures, network forensics, data recovery techniques, data hiding, data preservation techniques, and chain-of-evidence procedures.

Credits

3

Prerequisite

Prerequisite: ITN 150 and ITN 170

See Course Syllabus

Course Number and Title:

ITN 272 Digital Forensics

Campus Location

  • Dover
  • Georgetown
  • Wilmington

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: ITN 150 and ITN 170

Course Credits and Hours

3 credit(s)

2 lecture hours/week

2 lab hours/week

Course Description

This course prepares students to conduct digital investigations and acquire and analyze digital evidence. Topics include file structures, network forensics, data recovery techniques, data hiding, data preservation techniques, and chain-of-evidence procedures.

Additional Materials

Access to high-speed Internet.

Required Text(s)

Obtain current textbook information by viewing the campus bookstore - https://www.dtcc.edu/bookstores online or visit a campus bookstore. Check your course schedule for the course number and section.

Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)

  1. Explain the limitations and capabilities of digital forensics. (CCC 1, 2; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4)
  2. Examine the legal implications of the collection and investigation process. (CCC 2, 4; PGC 2, 3, 4)
  3. Evaluate current digital forensics tools. (CCC 2, 6; PGC 1, 2)
  4. Identify locations for digital evidence. (CCC 1, 2; PGC 1, 4)
  5. Perform and document an investigation of digital evidence. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4)

See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.

Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)

Upon completion of this course, the student will:

  1. Explain the limitations and capabilities of digital forensics.
    1. Define digital forensics.
    2. Determine the viability of forensic techniques given a scenario.
    3. Describe ethical and legal practices related to digital forensics.
    4. Explain the use of forensic techniques for data recovery.
  2. Examine the legal implications of the collection and investigation process.
    1. Distinguish between criminal law, civil law, and corporate policy.
    2. Discuss the applicability of fourth amendment rights given a scenario.
    3. Demonstrate appropriate chain of custody procedures.
  3. Evaluate current digital forensics tools.
    1. Describe the purpose and function of a forensic workstation.
    2. Evaluate digital forensics hardware and software tools.
    3. Select appropriate digital forensic tools given a scenario.
    4. Discuss the relevance and impact of anti-forensics techniques.
  4. Identify locations for digital evidence.
    1. Determine the sources of relevant data for an investigation.
    2. Identify sources of digital evidence given an operating system type.
    3. Identify sources of digital evidence given a file system type.
    4. Identify sources of digital evidence for network activity.
    5. Identify sources of digital evidence given a mobile device.
  5. Perform and document an investigation of digital evidence.
    1. Collect evidence for a digital investigation.
    2. Demonstrate appropriate documentation procedures.
    3. Explain the importance of repeatability of findings.
    4. Execute a digital investigation.
    5. Develop a forensic report based on findings of a digital investigation.

Evaluation Criteria/Policies

The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:

90-100 = A
80-89 = B
70-79 = C
0-69 = F
Students should refer to the Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.

Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)

  1. Solve technology-related problems using critical thinking and troubleshooting skills.
  2. Articulate the role of the technology professional in organizations to support the ethical use of information technology.
  3. Apply fundamental security concepts and strategies for maintaining and securing information technology.
  4. Read and interpret technical information and effectively communicate to a wide range of audiences using oral, print, and multimedia strategies.
  5. Demonstrate the importance of lifelong learning that empowers personal and professional growth.

Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)

  1. Apply clear and effective communication skills.
  2. Use critical thinking to solve problems.
  3. Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
  4. Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
  5. Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
  6. Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.

Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability

We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.

Minimum Technology Requirements

Minimum technology requirements for online, hybrid, video conferencing and web conferencing courses.