A cyber attack makes you vulnerable. In most cases, the immediate instinct is to solve the urgent problem, for example, change passwords or reinstall the software. But that’s only half the battle. You need to understand the problem to ensure that it does not occur again. And that is where computer forensics comes in.

This is the detective element of cybersecurity. It involves the following:

• Delving into the digital tracks
• Re-creating the events
• Uncovering the who, what, when, and why of the attack. 

And when you have already been hacked, this information is priceless. We explain why.

You should know how the hacker broke in

It is hard to solve a problem you don’t understand. Many cyber crimes always leave a trail: 

• Odd logins
• Altered files
• Programs not created on the system
• Uncharacteristic traffic. 

Specialists in computer forensics find these clues. Their work is to determine precisely how the intruder gained access to your system.

• Maybe it was through a phishing email.
• Maybe it was a weak password.
• Perhaps it was a software or plug-in vulnerability.

Being aware of the entry point enables you to close the door correctly rather than making a guess and hoping it goes well.

It makes you see the full picture of the damage

A cyberattack might not happen once. There are cases when hackers leave backdoors and install silent malware. Others go deeper into your network without your notice. That is, the attacker may still have access even after you believe that all is secure.

Computer forensics assists in answering the following important questions:

• What data was accessed or stolen?
• Did financial information leak out?
• Was there any copying or modification of files by the attacker?
• Are there malicious programs running in the background?

Without a proper investigation, you have no idea of what the hacker actually touched, and that is risky.

It guards you against repeated attacks

Hackers tend to revisit the same victims more than once, particularly when the first violation occurred with ease. 

Forensic experts reveal vulnerabilities that may be utilized by attackers in the future by studying logs, devices, servers, and communication patterns.

It assists in legal, insurance, and compliance matters

A hack can create legal requirements in case your business holds customer data, financial records, medical records, or anything confidential.

Computer forensics offers records and evidence required for:

• Cyber insurance claims
• Data breach notifications
• Law enforcement reports
• Compliance audits
• Internal investigations.

It is the distinction between having solid evidence and making assumptions.

It gives you peace of mind after a terribly stressful experience

It may seem like not that much damage has occurred, but a cyberattack can make you feel violated.

Computer forensics assists in creating clarity. You get answers. Therefore, you do not have to worry about the unknowns.

The bottom line

It is always advisable to bring in computer forensics specialists after a cyber attack. This extra measure will safeguard your information, protect your brand, and give you peace of mind.