Process:
Cloud Forensics involves examining and analyzing data stored on cloud-based platforms, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform, or Microsoft Azure. The process begins with securing and isolating the relevant cloud resources, often involving collaboration with cloud service providers. Forensic experts then employ specialized tools and techniques to capture data snapshots, network logs, and access metadata. Following the data collection, a thorough analysis is conducted to identify anomalies, unauthorized activities, or other evidence relevant to the case.
Examples:
During an internal corporate investigation into data leakage, cloud forensics revealed unauthorized API calls and access patterns, pinpointing the source of the leak.
In a legal copyright infringement dispute, cloud forensics provided critical evidence by recovering and analyzing deleted files and communications from cloud storage.
Risks of Not Doing It:
Neglecting Cloud Forensics could mean overlooking valuable evidence or data that might be pivotal in an investigation or legal case. Cloud environments’ complexity and distributed nature make them fertile ground for potential malicious activity. Failure to properly investigate can lead to persistent vulnerabilities and compliance violations, particularly if data is stored across multiple jurisdictions with different data protection laws. Additionally, incomplete or inaccurate investigations can compromise the integrity of legal proceedings, potentially leading to unfavorable or unjust outcomes.