What is the primary goal of a digital forensic investigation?

The primary goal of a digital forensic investigation is to identify and analyze artifacts from digital devices for legal purposes. This involves collecting, preserving, and analyzing data from computers, mobile devices, networks, and other digital systems to gather evidence that can support legal proceedings. Digital forensics aims to ensure that the data is handled in a way that maintains its integrity and admissibility in court, making it critical in criminal investigations, civil litigation, and even organizational compliance matters.

This process differs significantly from merely recovering deleted files for personal use, which might not adhere to legal standards or procedures necessary for forensic investigations. While increasing network security protocols and briefing management on cyber threats are important aspects of cyber security, they do not represent the core objective of a digital forensic investigation. The essence of digital forensics lies in its systematic approach to uncovering facts that can be substantiated within a legal context, which is central to the investigative process and its outcomes.