Digital Evidence and Computer Crime: Forensic Science, Computers, and the Internet.

by Eoghan Casey, Academic Press, San Diego, California, 2000.

As a place to begin in the investigation of computer-based crime, Digital Evidence and Computer Crime represents a very good start. As the title implies, the author works toward a comprehensive explanation of a series of very complex and technical, yet related, issues. Fortunately, he provides well-written and easily understandable explanations, albeit technically abbreviated, throughout. The information he provides in this context allows for concept transition as the text continues into the strategic and tactical application of pursuit. For a new inductee into the world of computers and law enforcement, this book should be on the shelf. While it will not solve the case, it will provide the "rookie" with a number of very well-described starting points.

The chapters are designed to build off the previous ones in terms of an introduction, through basic vocabulary and terminology, and then stepping into the issues associated with law enforcement response. Perhaps, the best aspect of this book is the inclusion of case examples, which highlight various points Mr. Casey makes throughout.

Two of the chapters focus on the behavioral/motivational aspects of computer crime. Each embraces the topic from academia and contain good information, although somewhat limited with respect to long-term utility. While the technology continues to evolve, so too will the targets and the suspect's methodology.

One chapter focuses on the legal and jurisdictional aspects of these issues. The referenced cases occurred in the mid to late 1990s and, in terms of relativity to the discussion, are pertinent. There is, however, a growing list of additional case law, which should be thoroughly researched in any specific investigation involving search and seizure, intercept, and other complex issues. From the perspective of jurisdiction, the text briefly covers an issue that proves significant at any level in responding to and prosecution of computer-related crime.

Accompanying the text is a multimedia CD separated into several sections, including an introduction, a cases section, and a reference section. The cases section permits the reader to commence hands-on pursuit of computer criminals by following a very basic fact set and using some of the knowledge from the book. These scenarios are primers only, but afford the reader with an opportunity for familiarization by hands-on interaction. The reference section provides a list of 24 Internet locations for the reader to continue learning or to obtain law enforcement assistance.

As with any new area of law enforcement, the scope and breadth of understanding and response vary by individual, as well as by location and agency capability. This book is a great resource for any individual seeking knowledge or beginning to understand this growing phenomenon, as well as some of the issues associated with the operational and related strategic challenges.