Information

In today's world, the rapid spread of the internet, the increasing prevalence of personal computers and smart devices, and the widespread storage of personal information in digital environments have significantly transformed how individuals and organizations operate. These technological advancements have paralleled a rise in attempts to access sensitive information without proper authorization. Unauthorized access, hacking activities, and internet piracy have collectively given rise to the concept of cybercrime—a phenomenon that poses significant risks to individuals, organizations, and even states. In response to these escalating threats, the field of Digital Forensics Engineering has emerged as a vital discipline dedicated to combating cybercrime and addressing its associated challenges.

The term forensics has its roots in the Latin word forensis, meaning "before the forum." Historically, this term dates back to Roman times, where presenting a case before a group of public officials in a forum carried the burden of proof and penalty. Today, this ancient concept has evolved into a modern framework for gathering, analyzing, and presenting evidence in legal contexts, particularly within the digital realm. The growing importance of digital forensics is a direct consequence of the increasing complexity and sophistication of cybercrimes, which differ significantly from classical crime concepts. As security units worldwide face these new challenges, the recognition of cybercrime as a distinct category of crime at the state level has become essential.

While technological developments have brought numerous benefits to institutions, they have also created opportunities for criminals to exploit these same technologies for malicious purposes. To address this dual-edged nature of technology, our department was established to focus on forensic monitoring, analysis, and the combating of cybercrimes. This includes the collection of evidence related to information law, information security, cybersecurity, and information crimes, as well as the development of effective strategies to mitigate potential threats.

In our country, nearly all institutions are supported by robust internet infrastructure, with the majority storing their critical information electronically. The introduction of the e-government application has further centralized citizens' information in digital formats, streamlining public services while simultaneously increasing the need for stringent security measures. Similarly, private companies, businesses, and large organizations such as holdings have embraced internet and information technologies to enhance their operations, further highlighting the importance of safeguarding digital assets against unauthorized access and cyber threats.

The widespread use of information technologies has underscored the necessity of protecting sensitive data. Recognizing this global priority, our country has begun implementing measures to enhance information security. These measures are driven by the realization that ensuring information security, responding to cybercrime incidents, and preventing future threats are not just optional but critical requirements for maintaining societal and organizational stability.

Forensic Computer Engineering is a specialized branch of engineering designed to train experts who can effectively address these challenges. This discipline integrates field-specific courses with foundational engineering education to prepare individuals for the complex demands of the digital age. The educational framework of forensic computer engineering is centered around three fundamental objectives:

1. Preventive Measures: The first objective is to prevent potential damage to institutions by implementing necessary precautions before a crime occurs. This involves equipping students with the skills to select, plan, configure, and protect information systems by adopting security measures. Students are trained to perform penetration tests (pentests), detect vulnerabilities, and prevent attacks, enabling organizations to strengthen their defenses against potential threats.

2. Evidence Collection and Analysis: The second objective focuses on the correct collection, analysis, and reporting of data related to crimes committed through digital systems. Students learn to gather and preserve forensic evidence, create forensic copies, analyze data using specialized tools, and generate comprehensive reports. Additionally, they gain expertise in utilizing advanced forensic hardware and software to ensure the integrity and admissibility of evidence in legal proceedings.

3. Legal Knowledge: The third objective is to provide students with a thorough understanding of the legal frameworks and regulations governing digital crimes in their respective countries. This includes gaining knowledge about the responsibilities, rights, and ethical considerations associated with digital investigations, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to navigate the legal complexities of the field.

To achieve these objectives, the curriculum has been meticulously designed to include both theoretical foundations and practical applications. Students engage in hands-on training with state-of-the-art tools and technologies, enabling them to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world scenarios. Key topics include network security, ethical hacking, data recovery, malware analysis, and incident response. By integrating case studies and collaborative projects, the program fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, ensuring graduates are equipped to tackle evolving cyber threats.

Furthermore, the program emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct, given the sensitive nature of the work. Students are instilled with a strong sense of professional responsibility and integrity, preparing them to handle confidential information and complex investigations with the utmost care.

Graduates of forensic computer engineering programs are expected to play pivotal roles in securing digital infrastructures, protecting individuals' and organizations' sensitive data, and contributing to the development of policies and technologies that mitigate cyber risks. Their expertise is essential not only for addressing current challenges but also for shaping a secure digital future.

In conclusion, our department's commitment to providing comprehensive education and practical training ensures that students are well-prepared to excel in the field of forensic computer engineering. By equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding necessary to address the multifaceted challenges of cybercrime, we aim to produce professionals who can make meaningful contributions to this critical and ever-evolving discipline.