Cyber Forensics: A Boon to Cybersecurity

Introduction

The advent of the Digital Age has heralded a new era of extraordinary connection, information sharing, and technological innovation. The globe has grown more interconnected than ever before, thanks to the increasing integration of digital technologies into every aspect of our lives, from communication and business to governance and healthcare (Miller & West, 2009). This fundamental transformation has provided tremendous benefits, but it has also exposed individuals, businesses, and society to a slew of cybersecurity dangers that necessitate strong safeguards. Data has become the vitality of modern civilisation in this Digital Age. Data is at the centre of innumerable activities and transactions, ranging from personal information and financial records to intellectual property and national security secrets (Huang et al., 2022). However, this reliance on data-driven procedures has created a vulnerability that malevolent actors can exploit. Cyber-attacks have evolved into a sophisticated and ubiquitous threat capable of destroying key infrastructure, stealing sensitive information, and incurring worldwide financial damages. The rising frequency, complexity, and severity of cyber threats necessitates the need for cybersecurity. Malware, phishing assaults, ransomware, and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks are just a handful of the methods used by cybercriminals to circumvent security measures and corrupt digital systems (Li & Liu, 2021). These attacks have the potential to have far-reaching implications, affecting not only individuals but potentially organisations, governments, and even entire countries. In the Digital Age, the interconnection of devices and systems magnifies the potential impact of cyber threats. The Internet of Things (IoT) has introduced a slew of networked gadgets, ranging from smart home appliances to industrial control systems, resulting in a vast attack surface (Huang et al., 2022). Furthermore, the increasing reliance on cloud computing and internet platforms has broadened the channels via which hostile actors might infiltrate networks and access sensitive data. The consequences of a successful cyberattack go beyond monetary damages. Cyber incidents have the potential to undermine trust in organisations, interrupt key services, and jeoparadize personal privacy (Sukri et al., 2023). High-profile data breaches have exposed millions of people to identity theft and financial crime, emphasising the importance of protecting digital assets. Furthermore, state-sponsored cyber-attacks and cyber espionage endanger national security by targeting sensitive information and essential infrastructure. Strong cybersecurity measures are required to solve these concerns (Sukri et al., 2023). To secure their networks and data, organisations must invest in advanced threat detection, intrusion prevention systems, and encryption techniques. Furthermore, cybersecurity awareness and training programmes are critical for educating people about the dangers of digital interactions and promoting safe online behaviour.