To carry out their jobs successfully, data forensic professionals largely rely on social science research and principles. In data forensics, digital data, such as computer files and internet traffic, are examined and analyzed to find evidence of criminal activities or other illegal behavior (robin.materese@nist.gov, 2016). Data forensic experts need to have a thorough understanding of both the technical and social facets of digital data in order to complete this assignment.
Data forensic specialists need social science research because it gives them an understanding of the social environment in which digital data is produced, stored, and communicated. Social science study investigates how people and groups utilize technology, how they interact with it, and how it influences their behavior. Data forensic experts can benefit from this research by better understanding how digital data is produced and how it might apply to a current investigation.
Furthermore, data forensics professionals need to understand how human behavior and decision-making may affect the integrity and reliability of digital data, which is why social science principles are so important. Data forensic professionals can better understand how access control regulations may affect the availability and security of digital data by using social science concepts, such as the principle of least privilege. Data forensic experts can learn from the concept of psychological reactance about how people can try to change or hide digital data in reaction to inquiries.
Data forensic experts also need to be aware of how digital information may affect underrepresented groups and society at large. This knowledge is crucial for making sure that digital investigations are carried out responsibly and with consideration for societal issues. Data forensic experts need to be aware of any biases and injustices in digital data and have the skills to evaluate and effectively remedy them (Raji, 2020).
For instance, experts in data forensics must understand how data might be used to discriminate against particular groups, such as members of racial or ethnic minorities or people with disabilities. Additionally, they must be aware of the ways in which data may be manipulated to uphold preexisting power structures or perpetuate systemic injustices. Data forensic experts can try to ensure that their investigations are fair and reasonable and do not further marginalize already vulnerable populations by being aware of these challenges (Raji, 2020).
In addition to understanding these social issues, data forensic specialists must also be able to communicate effectively with marginalized groups and society in general. This requires a deep understanding of social and cultural differences and an ability to communicate complex technical information in a way that is accessible to non-technical individuals. Data forensic specialists must be able to explain their findings in clear and concise language, and they must be able to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds to understand the implications of their work (Raji, 2020).
In conclusion, data forensic specialists rely heavily on social science research and principles to perform their duties effectively. They must understand how digital data is created and how it may be relevant to their investigations, and they must be aware of the potential biases and inequities that may be present in digital data. They must also be able to communicate effectively with marginalized groups and society in general, to ensure that their investigations are conducted ethically and with sensitivity to social issues. By incorporating social science principles into their work, data forensic specialists can help to ensure that their investigations are fair, just, and serve the broader interests of society.
Works Cited
Raji, D. (2020, December 10). How our data encodes systematic racism. MIT Technology Review. https://www.technologyreview.com/2020/12/10/1013617/racism-data-science-artificial-intelligence-ai-opinion/
robin.materese@nist.gov. (2016, June 30). Digital evidence. NIST. https://www.nist.gov/digital-evidence