When criminal investigation requires the painstaking work of scrutinizing evidence in systems, computer forensics has established itself as an indispensable tool. 

The advance of technology has allowed many operations in daily life to be automated and, therefore, these digital platforms have also become a target for attempts to violate processes and commit crimes. 

However, the same digital tools have been optimized to also contribute to crime prevention through their use.. They are even a support for the search of valuable information required for the establishment of legal responsibilities in this type of situations. 

Forensic computer forensics is a tool or discipline that enables the collection and analysis of data from computer systems, networks, wireless communications and storage devices to be presented as admissible evidence to legal authorities, such as a court of law. To achieve this, it makes use of technical knowledge of law and computer science.

As the term "forensic" indicates, this discipline makes use of a scientific methodology. for the collection, analysis and presentation of the collected evidence. In the digital environment, the search for data requires different skills from the same process outside these media, as it requires the reconstruction of computer elements, the examination of residual data, data authentication and the explanation of the techniques of use of the information.

Part of the importance of this toolIt is also capable of detecting what has happened to the data on any electronic device, which provides important information in the evidence that a lawyer must collect. Thanks to this knowledge it is possible to reconstruct what actions a user of the digital platform took, the moment in which he acted, as well as to know if a file was modified or downloaded.

In general, cases of money laundering often need the support of forensic legal informatics to find the evidence and legal basis to decipher the truth of the facts and those responsible for them.

To make efficient use of this discipline and make the most of technology in this area, legal professionals should take into account some recommendations that will facilitate the procedure and optimize the presentation of reliable evidence.

Keys to success in the legal use of computer forensics

1. The electronic collection should be as broad as possible, taking into consideration all electronic devices that could be involved and provide information.
   
2. Documenting the chain of custody with the intention of keeping a detailed record of how and when the information was obtained. Likewise, it is essential to store data on the electronic device on which the evidence was found.
   
3. Make a copy or backup of the device The information found will be stored in forensic storage facilities in order to avoid compromising the information found.
   
4. Maintain close contact and take into account all the recommendations of the IT specialist when handling the information, with the intention of reducing the risks of affecting the data.
   
5. The computer forensic specialist you should have as much information as possible about the case and its background. In this way, you are much more accurate in your search and can find more interesting information for the case.

At Alan Aldana & Abogados our specialists use state-of-the-art technology to work with all our clients, especially when it involves the collection, analysis and presentation of proof and evidence in economic crime proceedings or investigations.

Sources consulted

• informaticaforense.com
• cybersecurity.global
• protecciondatos-lopd.com