Digital Forensics Investigatory: The Role of Social Science in Modern Cybersecurity. “.

Jason Daamash
CYSE201S
BLUF:
Digital Forensics Investigators are essential to cybersecurity efforts because they apply social
science principles to understand human behavior, protect vulnerable groups, and promote justice
in a digitally connected world.
Cybersecurity goes beyond coding and firewalls. The role of a Digital Forensics
Investigator is highly human-oriented within this field. Digital evidence discovery, analysis and
interpretation are the responsibility of these professionals who help in pursuing criminal or civil
cases. It is a work that requires both high technical skill and sensitivity to human behavior, trends
in society over time as well as cultural context. Such investigators’ interpretation of evidence,
communication with victims and suspects, and participation in a more just justice system are
heavily influenced by social science research and principles. Digital Forensics Investigators are
examined in terms of their daily interactions with disadvantaged communities, and how they
contribute to society.
The Impact of Social Science on Digital Forensics.
Digital Forensics Investigators use various fields of social science, including psychology,
sociology, and criminology to guide their actions. The study of human behavior in social
contexts is known as social science, according to Investopedia. To evaluate digital content such
as emails, text messages, or social media posts, it is essential to consider motivations, emotional
reactions, and communication patterns. Online harassment can be investigated more effectively
by utilizing information about group dynamics and power imbalances, as an example. The
development of psychological profiles of offenders or victims is achieved through the use of
qualitative and quantitative social science research methods, including archival research, case
studies, interviews, and surveys, which identify patterns of behavior. These techniques aren’t
exclusive to academia. The National Institute of Justice (2020) states that social science is
becoming more important in forensic science fields, enabling researchers to pose advanced
questions, identify behavioral patterns, and analyze crime within its overall social structure.
Practically Implementing Essential Social Science Principles in Daily Workplaces
Digital Forensics Investigator’s daily tasks are informed by various social science
concepts. One of the primary concepts in this is victimology, which concerns the social and
psychological consequences of victimization on victims. By analyzing the behavior of
cybercriminals, it is possible to identify how attackers exploit emotional or psychological
vulnerabilities in cybercrime investigations. The victim’s communication patterns, emotional
investment and potential isolation are among the factors that investigators examine for
clue-based information in romance scams. Another essential notion is the social construction of
deviance.’ Deviant and criminal behavior are terms that vary depending on the culture and legal
system in question. To avoid misreading digital content, forensic investigators must exercise
caution and use their cultural lens to interpret it critically. One meme or slang phrase might seem
intimidating in one context, but harmless in another. In social science, cultural relativism is a
concept that helps investigators evaluate evidence with respect to cultural differences and
prevent bias. Routine Activity Theory is also a significant aspect. This theory states that crime is
committed when a motivated offender finds ‘an appropriate target’ without. This model is
frequently employed by investigators to investigate digital realms, such as unprotected websites
or social media accounts, and determine the factors that led to cybercrime. It aids them in solving
crimes while also contributing to preventive measures.
Interaction with Marginalized Populations.
The work of Digital Forensics Investigators often involves working with disadvantaged
groups who are more exposed to cybercrime because they lack the resources, training, or legal
protection required. Those who are of mixed-race or immigrant origins, as well as those
considered to be lesbian or gay, the elderly, or disabled. These communities are frequently
targeted by scams, identity theft, online harassment, and exploitation, as stated by American
Public University (n.d.). The approach to work with these communities is based on trauma and
social awareness. Sexually active individuals may be less likely to report harassment due to fear
of discrimination, while immigrants may encounter language barriers or legal concerns. Social
science-based investigators can use trauma-informed interviewing techniques to gather
information without causing significant harm. Furthermore, these populations often lack the
necessary cybersecurity education or institutional safeguarding due to systemic inequalities.’ By
having a grasp of structural marginalization, investigators can promote justness and ensure that
investigations address these hindrances.
Societal Impacts of Digital Forensics.
It is a dynamic and interdependent interaction between Digital Forensic Science
Investigators and society. Why? These experts are essential in ensuring the protection of the
public’s digital interests. On the other hand, societal changes, such as the advent of encrypted
messaging, misinformation, or shifting privacy norms, require investigators to constantly adjust
their methods.'”. The role of Digital Forensics Investigators is to influence policy. Legal
reforms, public awareness campaigns and the creation of digital safety tools are often informed
by their findings. By utilizing social science, they aid society in comprehending the impact of
digital environments on actual behavior and damage. Forensic practices and justice systems are
improved by the convergence of science, social context, and innovation, as stated by researchers
at the National Institute of Justice (2020).
In conclusion, the intersection of technology and humanity is where Digital Forensics
Investigators operate. They are not limited to examining code or retrieving deleted files. By
utilizing social science principles, they gain insight into contexts such as cognition, action, and
intent. These professionals work in close partnership with those who are marginalized by justice
systems, using empathy and awareness to serve the people they serve. Connecting to societal
trends and policy, they help usher in a more informed digital world.

References

American Public University System. (n.d.). What is digital forensics? American Public
University.
https://www.apu.apus.edu/area-of-study/information-technology/resources/what-is-digital-forens
ics/
Investopedia. (n.d.). Social science. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/social-science.asp
National Institute of Justice. (2020, April 17). Social science research for forensic science: The
story behind one of NIJ’s newest research portfolios. U.S. Department of Justice.
https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/social-science-research-forensic-science-story-behind-one-nijs
newest-research