Role of Forensics in Making a SOC Ready (C|HFI)

Organizations are under near-constant cyberattacks and must prepare to respond to any type of incident. One key piece of an effective security operations center (SOC) is having skilled forensic analysts who can quickly identify and mitigate incidents. Here we will discuss the role of forensics in making a SOC ready and explore the benefits of having a dedicated forensics team in your organization. In addition, we will provide tips on getting started in forensics if you want to become a forensic analyst.

How Does Forensic Readiness Help a SOC?

Forensic readiness is critical for any organization that wants to respond effectively to a security incident. A SOC that doesn’t prepare for forensics will likely struggle to collect the necessary data and may even miss important evidence.

When an incident occurs, the first step is to identify what happened and where. This information then determines the type of forensic analysis needed. The next step is to collect the evidence, which can be challenging, as many organizations do not clearly understand what data needs to be collected. In some cases, organizations are unaware of all the data within their network.

Once the evidence is there, the analysis must begin. This process can be time-consuming and require specialized skills. However, ensuring that the correct information is gathered and following any potential leads is critical.

Organizations should make forensic readiness a priority for their SOC. By doing so, they can ensure that they prepare properly to respond effectively to incidents and collect the necessary data. Doing so will also help to improve the overall security of the organization. (Isaca.org., 2014)

Factors To Consider for Forensic Readiness

Many factors contribute to a strong forensic readiness posture. One of the most important is having a robust incident response plan, which helps an organization rapidly identify, contain, and resolve security incidents. It should also include provisions for collecting and preserving evidence so that professionals can analyze it later.

Another important factor in forensic readiness is the right tools and technologies. This includes hardware and software tools that collect, preserve, and analyze evidence from a security incident. For example, many organizations use digital forensics tools to help them understand what happened during an incident. These tools can examine system logs, network traffic, and other forms of data to reconstruct what occurred.

Finally, having the right people to respond to incidents is also important. This includes having trained staff who are familiar with the organization’s incident response plan and know how to properly use the available tools and technologies. By having the right team in place, an organization can ensure that its response to incidents is swift and effective.

By taking these steps, an organization can be ready to respond quickly and effectively to any security incident.

The Cost and Benefits of Forensic Readiness to An Organization

The benefits of being forensic-ready are numerous. Most importantly, it can help an organization avoid or mitigate reputational damage in the event of a data breach. Additionally, it can help ensure that any legal requirements are met, and that critical evidence is not lost. Furthermore, being prepared can help speed up the forensic investigation process and improve the chances of a successful prosecution if criminal activity occurs.

The cost of being forensic-ready can vary depending on the size and complexity of an organization, but it is typically not overly expensive. The most significant costs are usually associated with setting up the necessary systems and processes and training staff members to use them. However, these upfront costs are typically more than offset by the benefits of being prepared for a digital forensic investigation (Sachowski., 2016).

All organizations should carefully consider the cost and benefits of forensic readiness. While the initial investment is required, the long-term benefits of being prepared far outweigh the costs. Organizations that don’t prepare may find themselves at a significant disadvantage if they ever face a digital forensic investigation.

Forensics is a critical piece in the puzzle of making a SOC ready. By understanding and implementing forensic readiness, you are taking an important step in protecting your organization against cybercrime. The benefits of being forensic-ready far outweigh the costs, so it’s important to consider all factors when deciding.

Source: eccouncil.org

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The Importance of Cyber Forensics Professionals in 2022 and Beyond

Cyber forensics professionals are investigators that respond to cybercrime and serious data breaches. Organizations need cyber forensics to answer vital questions such as – what happened, how it happened, how bad it is, and who’s responsible.

A cyber forensic expert uses sophisticated techniques to get to the bottom of each incident. Their investigation is meticulous, focusing on creating a reliable evidence chain. The evidence they produce is admissible in court, which can help settle lawsuits—and bring cybercriminals to justice.

This kind of investigation is essential at a time when cybercrime is skyrocketing. The FBI’s digital unit investigated $6.9 billion in cyber fraud in 2021—a 500% increase in just five years (Federal Bureau of Investigation, 2021). The threat is real. That’s why there’s a growing demand for skilled, certified cyber forensics professionals.

What is Cyber Forensics?

Cyber forensics is the discipline of studying digital sources to find reliable evidence of serious data security incidents. A cyber forensics investigation involves looking for clues from sources such as physical devices, network logs, databases, and cloud services. The investigator will attempt to restore deleted data and may even search the dark web for information.

Data integrity is the most crucial part of cyber forensics. If there is any data loss or contamination, it could undermine the whole investigation. That’s why digital forensics analysts always follow a strict process:

1. Identification: Find all data sources that might have relevant information.

2. Preservation: Secure the data to prevent erasure, tampering, or contamination.

3. Analysis: Put all the data together and establish what happened.

4. Documentation: Build a detailed timeline of all known events and actors involved in the incident.

5. Presentation: Summarize the findings in an appropriate format.

Cyber forensics is a vitally important job, and not only in the fight against cybercrime. Digital evidence now plays a role in over 90% of all criminal trials (Yawn, 2015). Justice depends on having access to digital evidence that is reliable, objective, and accurate.

Why is There a Growing Demand for Certified Cyber Forensics?

Businesses are currently fighting for their lives against the constant threat of cyberattacks. Data breaches are expensive, costing up to $180 per individual record compromised (IBM, 2021). A data breach can also expose a business to sabotage, espionage, or extortion.

Responding to security incidents isn’t easy. It can take up to 287 days—over nine months—to identify and repair a data breach (IBM, 2021). During that time, the organization will lose vital data that could help track down the criminals responsible.

To fight back, many companies are hiring extra in-house computer forensics experts or working with forensic cybersecurity consultants. These experts are helping to deal with a wave of new threats, including:

◉ Rapidly changing technology: Sudden changes in information technology infrastructure can create new risks. For example, the switch to remote work during Covid led to a 220% increase in phishing attacks (Warburton, 2021).

◉ IoT vulnerabilities: There are over 13 billion Internet of Things (IoT) devices online (Statista, 2021). Not all these devices are secure, making them targets for hackers. These devices can also serve as hosting grounds for botnet attacks.

◉ Cryptocurrency: Cryptocurrency is hard to trace. That makes things much easier for ransomware attackers and much harder for cyber forensics analysts. $14 billion of criminal activity involved cryptocurrency in 2021, up 79% in 2020. (Chavez-Dreyfuss, 2022)

◉ Accessible hacking tools: Wannabe cybercriminals can now pay to access sophisticated hacking tools. This ease of access means more frequent attacks and more pressure on cyber defenses.

◉ Anti-forensics techniques: Criminals keep finding new ways to cover their tracks. Evolving anti-forensics techniques can make detecting and investigating a cyber-attack even harder.

The average business spends 10% of its annual IT budget on cybersecurity (Deloitte, 2020), most of which goes on prevention. But, when their defenses fail, those companies need cyber forensic professionals to investigate and find answers—fast.

Is Cyber Forensics a Promising Career?

As long as there is cybercrime, there will be a demand for cyber forensic analysts.

Full-time salaries for digital forensics professionals average at around $74,902 (Payscale, 2022). You can also work as a private consultant, which would mean billing clients according to your hourly rates.

You will need strong technical training and IT knowledge to succeed as a cyber forensic professional. You’ll also need the right qualifications (see next section) and experience in cybersecurity.

Most of all, you will need the right personal qualities, such as:

 

◉ Curiosity: You’ll need an insatiable desire to find the truth. A cyber forensic professional will ask questions, chase every lead, and explore every possible data source in the search for clues.

◉ Attention to detail: You’ll need to be able to spot patterns and clues in the smallest traces of data. You’ll also need to be painstaking in following the correct process.

◉ Continuous learning: Hacking techniques are constantly evolving—and so are anti-forensics strategies. You’ll need a voracious appetite for learning about the latest trends.

◉ Strong communication: You may need to present your evidence to non-technical people. Can you explain your findings to executives, law enforcement, or even a jury?

Cyber forensics can be a steppingstone to a senior career in cybersecurity. This path can lead to jobs like security architect or Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).

How to Become a Certified Cyber Forensics Professional

If you think cyber forensics is the right choice for you, then here’s the good news: there’s never been a better time to start.

Employers need cybersecurity people at all levels, from entry-level cyber forensics positions to senior consultants. These positions allow you to get hands-on experience and to see how cyber forensics works in the real world.

Some training options can help make you eligible to apply for vacancies. Here are a few cyber forensic courses to consider:

◉ Beginner: Got an IT background and are looking to pivot to security? Consider a security basics course. The Certified Network Defender program is an excellent place to start. You will learn about entry-level cyber forensics techniques, including risk anticipation, threat assessment, and endpoint security.

◉ Intermediate: What if you have security experience and want to develop your skills? A qualification such as Cyber Threat Intelligence Training gives an in-depth guide to threat analysis. You’ll also learn some of the data-gathering techniques involved in an investigation.

◉ Cyber forensics professional: When you’re ready for a serious career in cyber forensics, you can enroll in a program such as Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (C|HFI) program. Here, you’ll gain in-depth knowledge about conducting a cyber forensics investigation on any platform and methods for counteracting anti-forensics techniques.

The C|HFI program from EC-Council is the only comprehensive, ANSI accredited, and lab-focused program in the market that gives vendor-neutral training in cyber forensics. In addition, it is the only program covering IoT Forensics and Darkweb Forensics.

Source: eccouncil.org

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Everything You Need to Know About Cloud Forensics

Introduction

Cloud computing has gone from cutting-edge technology to a best practice for businesses of all sizes and industries. According to Flexera’s State of the Cloud report, 94% of companies now leverage cloud computing.

With the cloud in such widespread usage, it’s no surprise that cloud forensics is growing in popularity. One of the most important cloud security best practices have cloud forensic investigators ready after a cybersecurity incident.

Read More: 312-50: Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

So what is cloud forensics, exactly? Cloud forensics involves applying digital forensics and crime investigation techniques to cloud computing environments. This article will discuss everything you need to know about cloud forensics, including cloud forensic techniques, challenges, and how to become a cloud forensic expert.

What Is Cloud Forensics?

If you’re reading this, you’re likely already familiar with cloud computing: a technology that delivers various on-demand computing services to users over the Internet. These services include applications, databases, servers, networking, and more—all available on a rental or “pay as you go” basis.

Cloud forensics refers to the use of forensic techniques to investigate cloud environments. When unlawful or criminal behavior has occurred using the cloud as a medium, cloud forensics experts use their skills and knowledge to detect the individuals or groups responsible. Cloud forensics encompasses users of the cloud, both victims and perpetrators. For example, a company using cloud servers might be the victim of a data breach or denial of the service incident. Criminals themselves might also use the cloud to launch an attack.

As with other subfields of forensics, cloud forensic investigators must follow strict regulations to ensure their work is admissible in a court of law. This may involve obtaining court orders to search a cloud server, ensuring evidence has not been tampered with, and other necessary precautions.

Cloud forensics jobs are usually listed under titles such as “forensic computer analyst,” “IT security analyst,” and “cyber investigator.” According to PayScale, the median U.S. salary for these jobs ranges from roughly $60,000 to $100,000. These individuals may be employed by governments, law enforcement agencies, and large companies such as banks and healthcare organizations that are common cybercrime targets. They may work in-house or provide their services as external contractors.

There’s no universally agreed upon background necessary for cloud analytics jobs, and each organization will have its own criteria. Most employers look for candidates with at least a bachelor’s degree, although not necessarily in computer science or information technology. Going through cloud forensics training (such as a certification program) is usually essential, but some people can bypass this requirement with enough experience.

How Is Digital Forensics Different from Cloud Forensics?

Digital forensics is a branch of forensics that works with electronic devices and data to detect crimes, examine the paths of criminals, and analyze and preserve evidence for the use of law enforcement and prosecutors.

The domain of digital forensics encompasses a wide range of components in the IT environment: hard drives and other storage media; individual files; Internet and other networks; emails; mobile devices; databases; operating systems; computer memory; and more.

Some examples of popular digital forensics tools are:

◉ The Sleuth Kit (TSK) extracts information from hard disks and other storage

◉ Autopsy, a tool for examining hard disks that provides data on the operating system, owner, users, applications, Internet history, deleted files, etc.

◉ Volatility, an open-source framework for analyzing computer memory

Once these tools have identified potential evidence, digital forensic experts can use a write blocker to securely copy the data to another location, recover hidden or deleted files, decrypt encrypted files, and more.

Cloud forensics can be considered a subset of digital forensics with a particular focus on cloud computing — and, thus, a subset of the broader sphere of forensic science. Many cloud forensic techniques and tools are therefore common in digital forensics. Like digital forensics, cloud forensic experts must work with diverse computing assets: servers, networks, applications, databases and storage, and more.

However, several factors make cloud forensics distinct from its parent field of digital forensics. Perhaps the biggest distinction is that cloud forensic investigators often lack physical access to the investigated systems and environments. This fact significantly affects how cloud forensic investigations are carried out, as we’ll see in the next section.

Challenges of Cloud Forensics

As you can imagine, several cloud forensics challenges are unique to this field. The challenges of cloud forensics include both legal and technical difficulties. The potential issues with cloud forensic analysis include:

◉ Jurisdiction complications: Cloud services are often hosted in different states or countries from the user’s location. Users can sometimes — but not always — choose this location. Google, for example, has cloud servers in North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. This can create complications when determining which jurisdiction has authority over the crime.

◉ Instability: In traditional digital forensics investigations, the IT environment is often “frozen” to prevent interruptions or further issues while investigators complete their work. However, this is usually impossible with public cloud providers, which may serve thousands or millions of customers. Instead, the environment remains live and changeable (and therefore, potentially unstable.

◉ Physical access: In some cases, physically inspecting a cloud server can help with forensics. However, this is a challenge with large cloud providers, which enact strict security regulations to prevent unauthorized individuals from entering the premises. In addition, as mentioned above, there’s no guarantee that the cloud server will be physically located close to the investigator.

◉ Decentralization: Cloud providers often store files across several machines or data centers to improve data availability and reliability. This decentralization and fragmentation make it more challenging to identify the problem and perform forensics.

◉ Unavailable or deleted data: Cloud providers may differ in terms of the information they provide to investigators. For example, log files may not be available. In addition, if the crime resulted in data being deleted, it becomes a challenge to reconstruct this data, identify the owner, and use it in cloud forensic analysis.

How to Become a Cloud Forensics Expert

Being a cloud forensics expert can be an exciting and rewarding job. Applying your technical knowledge and experience can help solve crimes and bring the perpetrators of cyberattacks to justice. One pertaining question remains: how do you become a cloud forensic expert?

Obtaining a cloud forensics certification is an excellent start if you want to begin a career as a cloud forensic professional. Cloud forensics certifications prove to potential employers that you have the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to help investigate crimes in the cloud.

EC-Council offers the Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (C|HFI) certification to help jumpstart your cybersecurity career. This program verifies that the learner has the necessary skills to proactively investigate complex security threats, allowing them to investigate, record, and report cybercrimes to prevent future attacks.

Taking the C|HFI course and passing the certification exam is the perfect way to show businesses that you have the skills for a job in cloud forensics. Want to learn more about how to become a cloud forensic expert? Check out EC-Council’s page on the C|HFI certification.

Source: eccouncil.org

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Digital Forensics in Information Security

Digital Forensics is a branch of forensic science which includes the identification, collection, analysis and reporting any valuable digital information in the digital devices related to the computer crimes, as a part of the investigation.

Read More: 312-49: Computer Hacking Forensic Investigation

In simple words, Digital Forensics is the process of identifying, preserving, analyzing and presenting digital evidences. The first computer crimes were recognized in the 1978 Florida computers act and after this, the field of digital forensics grew pretty fast in the late 1980-90’s. It includes the area of analysis like storage media, hardware, operating system, network and applications.

It consists of 5 steps at high level:

1. Identification of evidence:

It includes of identifying evidences related to the digital crime in storage media, hardware, operating system, network and/or applications. It is the most important and basic step.

2. Collection:

It includes preserving the digital evidences identified in the first step so that they doesn’t degrade to vanish with time. Preserving the digital evidences is very important and crucial.

3. Analysis:

It includes analyzing the collected digital evidences of the committed computer crime in order to trace the criminal and possible path used to breach into the system.

4. Documentation:

It includes the proper documentation of the whole digital investigation, digital evidences, loop holes of the attacked system etc. so that the case can be studied and analysed in future also and can be presented in the court in a proper format.

5. Presentation:

It includes the presentation of all the digital evidences and documentation in the court in order to prove the digital crime committed and identify the criminal.

Branches of Digital Forensics:

◉ Media forensics:

It is the branch of digital forensics which includes identification, collection, analysis and presentation of audio, video and image evidences during the investigation process.

◉ Cyber forensics:

It is the branch of digital forensics which includes identification, collection, analysis and presentation of digital evidences during the investigation of a cyber crime.

◉ Mobile forensics:

It is the branch of digital forensics which includes identification, collection, analysis and presentation of digital evidences during the investigation of a crime committed through a mobile device like mobile phones, GPS device, tablet, laptop.

◉ Sofware forensics:

It is the branch of digital forensics which includes identification, collection, analysis and presentation of digital evidences during the investigation of a crime related to softwares only.

Source: geeksforgeeks.org

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Computer Forensics Training- All You Need to Know and More

Computer forensics training helps you through the processes of gathering cybercrime-related evidence and files to be presented in a court of law. In today’s networked environment, it is crucial for network and system administrators to understand the essential aspects of computer forensics and their major challenges.

EC-Council CHFI certification program is designed to acquaint experienced network and system professionals with the essential elements of digital forensics and build on their existing computer forensics skills. CHFI is one of the most required training programs in the field of IT security.

What will you learn in digital forensics?

Digital forensics, alternatively called computer forensics, or cyber forensics,  involves the usage of scientific investigatory procedures to digital attacks and crimes. You’ll learn about digital evidence and computer crimes to gain an understanding of the procedures, strategies, principles, and guidelines of computer forensics.

You’ll cover ethical and legal topics in a computer hacking forensics investigation credentialing program. In these classes, you’ll learn about security issues such as intrusion and detection, DDoS and DoS detection, TCP and Ip protocol vulnerabilities, and protocol routing, among others.

Some digital forensic training programs might have you sit in on real-life cases so you can learn how to write an acceptable forensic report or give testimony in a law court. You’ll also learn techniques such as alias discovery, data mining, profiling, and predictive modeling.

Is computer forensics a good career choice?

Computer forensic is an increasingly popular discipline with numerous prospects for advancement, offering job opportunities in a variety of fields, providing mouth-watering salaries, alongside a challenging and fast-paced work environment, which makes it a good career.

In a highly digitalized society and increasing reliance on the internet, computer forensics has become a vital aspect of business and law. It can also be a very lucrative career path.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the demand for a computer forensic analyst is expected to increase by 32% from 2018 to 2021. Similarly, forensics is a good career because it has so many sub-fields to choose from including computer forensics, forensic pathologist, toxicology, onychology, odontology, and so on.

What skills must a computer forensics investigator possess?

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in the field of computer forensics, you will need to have some specific computer forensics skills. The following are the top skills required for a computer forensics job.

Technical skills

The field of digital forensics is highly technology-focused. The computer hacking forensics investigator (CHFI) works with a number of technologies, including operating systems, mobile devices, IoT devices, and computer systems, to recognize and respond to network hacks and security breaches.

Always remember that it is only when you have a sound technical knowledge that you can detect and respond to network hacks and security breaches.

Some technical skills that one must possess include:

◉ Electronic evidence collections

◉ Threat intelligence

◉ Digital forensic acquisitions

◉ Data and evidence handling procedures

◉ Generate detailed reports

◉ Cracking (or attempting to crack) password protected files

◉ Anti-forensics detection

◉ Laboratory evidence handling, evidence examination, laboratory safety, and laboratory security policy and procedures

◉ Reverse engineering

And much more…

Soft Skills

In addition to mainting ones technical abilities, it is important that a digital forensic investigator also maintains the following soft skills to be able to carry out their duties effectively.

1. Strong communication

The CHFI needs a strong ability to communicate technical information as clearly and concisely as possible to people with different levels of technical knowledge. Forensic analysts usually work in teams and communication skill is vital in delivering the process of action on the forensic case accurately among the team members.

2. Analytical skills

Everyone considering a career in computer forensics must have a natural aptitude for analytical thinking. You need an impeccable computer forensics training, so you’ll be able to interpret data, observe situations loosely, analyze evidence, notice patterns, and discrepancies, and solve crimes. All these tasks require analytical skills.

3. Attention to detail

You’ll need to be detail-oriented if you are going to pursue a career in computer forensics. Your ability to pay attention to detail will help you sort through significant amounts of data to discover and analyze digital evidence.

4. A desire to learn

Computer forensics is fast-changing as with any technical field. As such, individuals who want to pursue a career in this field must be committed to learning new things, undergoing computer forensics training, and keeping up with the current trends.

5. Ability to work with challenging material

Most computer forensic analysts, especially those who work in law enforcement agencies, are expected to perform investigations that include disturbing or offensive materials. The forensic analyst needs to have a deft ability to work with such challenging content.

Is a Computer Forensic Training Program Important?

Digital forensic analysts, information security experts, digital security professionals, and other professionals with computer forensic knowledge all need computer forensics training if they want to develop their skills to be able to perform detailed, effective, and complete investigations.

Expert-led training and practice drills will guarantee that you gain the newest industry best practice, knowledge, and tools needed to perform the most successful computer forensics investigations.

The stable demand for computer forensics training and certification programs over the past years has been due to a number of reasons, one of which is the plethora of cybercrimes and the scarcity of skilled professionals. Several organizations have started offering certifications and training to bridge this gap.

However, it might be confusing to make sense of the options available or even find the right certification program. To help you make the right decision, EC-Council offers a comprehensive computer forensic certification program called the CHFI, which covers a wide range of topics and tools.

What is C|HFI Certification and why is it important?

Computer forensics is a significant part of cybersecurity due to the increasing demand for exclusive digital forensic experts. Although there is a substantial amount of accessible, first-rate accreditation programs, and certified forensics interviewers that concentrate on digital forensics and investigations. Nevertheless, there are other credentials and programs in the field of digital forensics science that are not as transparent or commonly known.

A Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator (CHFI) certification opens doors for an expert in the field of computer forensics. The Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator certification provided by EC-Council validates that you possess the required skills and knowledge for identifying hacking attacks, conducting analysis that enables you to mitigate impending attacks, and to properly retrieve needed evidence to support or refute a piece of criminal evidence at the court of law.

It takes a highly qualified individual such as the certified forensics examiner or certified computer examiner, to conduct this type of investigation. To earn the official CHFI credentials, it is compulsory that you take the required ECC examination.

Source: eccouncil.org

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CHFI Certification: Prove Your Competence in Digital Forensics

Computer forensics is a high-growth field, with great potential for career progression. Organizations lean on digital forensic analysts to make out and reduce weaknesses to maintain their sensitive information secure. CHFI by EC-Council is one of the most sought-after digital forensic certifications. EC-Council not only evaluates the forensic expertise of the applicants through the CHFI exam, but it also gives on-demand training to the aspiring applicants. CHFI certified professionals are considered experts in executing forensic-related tasks, like evidence collection, intrusion analysis, information recovery, and audit trails maintenance.

What is CHFI Certification?

The CHFI, Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator certification is for professionals in defense and military professionals, systems administrators, legal professionals, banking, e-Business security professionals, insurance, IT managers, and government bodies and police and other law enforcement employees. The CHFI certification will assure that candidates have the essential skills to recognize an intruder's traces and correctly gather the proof needed to prosecute in the court of law. Applicants who can not attend official training must have at least two years of work experience in the Information Security domain to meet the eligibility criteria.

Importance of CHFI Certification

Once you pass your CHFI 312-49 certification exam, you may find that you are qualified for a diverse range of jobs. While your prevailing job experience might have qualified you earlier, it is essential to gain a respected certification that proves a commitment to the field, as well as providing strong proof that you have mastered definite areas in Computer forensics.

Read: CHFI Certification: How It Can Open Doors and Boost Your Computer Forensics Career

CHFI certification always helps earn immediate respect and qualify you as the professional you are to move forward smoothly and rapidly without having to prove your importance.

Possible Career Paths for CHFI

You can then move your career forward with several distinct brilliant career paths. You can work with law enforcement agencies who are starving for computer investigators. You might look for to work with an organization that finds your particular skillset important to their information technology division. Some of the job profiles that you can take into consideration might involve the following:

• Security Engineer
• Digital Forensic Analyst
• Cyber Security Malware Analyst
• Security Auditor
• Security Manager
• Penetration Tester
• Application Security Analyst
• Computer Security Incident Response & Recovery
• Forensics Cyber Weapons and Tactics Advisor

Read: Key Roles of Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI): Briefly Explained

How to Prepare for CHFI Certification?

1. Start in Advance

EC-Council CHFI exam is nearly impossible to crack if you do last-minute cramming. Rather, you should start studying before 3-4 months to your scheduled exam date. You're going to be assessed on your skill to read a question, analyze it, and practice concepts. Although most candidates hardly run into questions that at first don't appear to relate to anything they've studied, you can be confused by them if you cram. The CHFI syllabus topics you're being examined on demand a type of understanding that can only be obtained over an organized, thorough course of study—not last-moment, frenzied reviews of study materials.

2. Design Study Schedule

To pass the CHFI exam, you need a solid grasp of the concepts and implement them. Besides, you need to practice answering CHFI test questions because the EC-Council certification exams demand you to employ analytical methods to conclude at your answers. Although there are motivated applicants who can design their study schedule effortlessly, it's more probable that you're unsure how or where to begin. Paycheques you receive after passing the CHFI exam are an excellent way to turn doubt into confidence.

To prepare for the CHFI certification exam, you can avail plenty of resources online. The cost of study material can depend on what kind of resources you choose. You can choose from books, online courses, online study guides and blogs, practice tests, and online communities.

3. Focus on Taking CHFI Practice Tests

If possible, try to take leave from your job in the last two weeks before the exam for revision and practice tests. Treat the CHFI practicetest as if they are actual exams. Don't get the practice questions in advance. Take time-bound practice tests to get a feel for the time limitations and stress of exam day. You have an average of about 1.6 minutes per CHFI question.

Although working on the areas where you scored poorly is essential, don't overlook your more vital CHFI syllabus topics. They need to stay in your mind for long.

4. Have a Game Plan to Stay Calm and Composed on Exam Day

The secret to staying focused and calm while taking the exam is to have a game plan before you sit for the exam. To avoid the last moment rush, be ready early. Don't spend too much time on one question.

For the questions that give you difficulty, first reread to understand them. Then, if you still can't conclude to the best answer, try to drop at least one and make a wise guess. Even if you don't have an idea, you should still mark an answer. That's better than leaving it blank because there is no negative marking. Whatever you do, don't frighten if you find several tricky questions in a row. It only makes things more dangerous.

Conclusion
If the world of digital forensic attracts you, if you want to help resolve crimes or discover compromised computer systems, or catch devil employees, then there is no time like the now to begin preparation for the CHFI exam.

There are plenty of job opportunities, and the salaries are usually very high with other types of jobs.

Start studying on your own, take some courses, perform practice tests, achieve your CHFI certificate, and apply for your dream job. It is an interesting and demanding field, but it will require time and effort.

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