Digital Forensics, also called Computer Forensics, is the capture, preservation, and extraction of digital evidence used in an investigation. Because paper trails only lead you so far these days, the use of computer forensics has become commonplace.

There is a whole new science to collecting evidence and ensuring it will be admissible in a court of law. In the computer age, fraud examiners must learn to catch someone who has committed a crime when the evidence is most likely to be found on that suspect's computer, PDA, cell phone, MP3 player, or other digital device. It's often highly sensitive data that, if mishandled, can be corrupted and lost forever.

Because computer-aided fraud and identity theft are on the rise with no end in sight, computer forensics training is essential for the modern fraud examiner. Universities and colleges in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, China, Japan, South Africa, and many other countries and provinces already are stepping up their computer science and criminal justice degree programs to include courses in digital forensics training.

In America, the FBI sponsors Regional Computer Forensics Laboratories (RCFLs) staffed by local, state and federal law enforcement personnel. They are free to 4,750 law enforcement agencies in 17 states so far, and have been extremely successful in dissecting digital evidence and providing court-approved documentation. In 2007, RCFL instructors had the opportunity to travel overseas and share their knowledge with approximately 169 government representatives according to the RCFL Program's Fiscal Year 2007 Annual Report published by the FBI. You can expect more computer forensics labs to start appearing around the world, as digital experts continue to emerge and branch out.

The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners offers several classes that provide the tools and tips you need to succeed in any investigation where digital / computer forensics is required. Check out the links to the right to find the class, conference or book that best suits your needs, and begin enhancing your anti-fraud career today.